The present disclosure relates generally to optical data storage media, and more specifically, to holographic storage media. In one embodiment, an optical storage medium includes a polymer matrix having one or more polymer chains. The optical storage medium also includes a reverse saturable absorption (RSA) sensitizer disposed within the polymer matrix that is configured to become excited upon exposure to light having an intensity above an intensity threshold and configured to transfer energy to a reactant. The optical storage medium also includes a diphenyl cyclopropene (DPCP)-derivative reactant disposed within the polymer matrix and capable of undergoing a modification upon receiving an energy transfer from the excited sensitizer that changes a refractive index of the optical medium.