The Q switched ND YAG laser is a type of laser technology useful in laser hyperpigmentation treatment for both superficial and deep skin discoloration. The 1064 ND YAG laser is particularly effective for capillaries on the face. This laser targets blood in the vessels causing coagulation and immediate vessel closure. It is commonly used to treat vessels associated with sun damage and rosacea. It can also be used for other lesions containing blood vessels. The treatment is quick and the results are usually immediate. This treatment is commonly used in combination with Intense pulse light.

Q-switched ND YAG laser machine creates an invisible or green beam of light that specifically targets the brown pigment or melanin present in the dark spots without having any effect on the surrounding skin. The pigment absorbs the laser energy and gets fragmented within the skin’s tissues after which the body gets rid of the debris via a natural process called “phagocyctosis”. This laser is able to reach deeper areas where topical hypopigmenting products, peels and other superficial treatments do not reach.

What is ND YAG Laser for Pigment and Vein Removal?

ND YAG laser treatment utilizes a specialized laser system that emits targeted light energy to selectively break down pigment cells or coagulate blood vessels. This non-invasive procedure is highly effective in reducing the appearance of pigmentation irregularities and visible veins, resulting in clearer, more youthful-looking skin.

The ND YAG Laser Treatment Procedure:

During the ND YAG laser treatment, doctor will direct the laser’s precise energy pulses onto the targeted pigmented areas or visible veins. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment or blood vessels, causing them to break down or coagulate without damaging the surrounding skin. The procedure is generally well-tolerated and requires minimal downtime.

Recovering from ND YAG Laser Treatment:

After ND YAG laser treatment, you may experience mild redness or swelling in the treated area, which typically subsides within a few hours to a few days. Your doctor will provide specific aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding sun exposure and applying recommended skincare products. Most patients can resume their regular activities immediately following the treatment.

Benefits of ND YAG Laser for Pigment and Vein Removal:

1.Reduction of unwanted pigmentation: The laser’s targeted energy breaks down melanin clusters responsible for pigmented lesions, leading to a more even skin tone and a reduction in age spots, sun spots, and other pigmentation irregularities.

2.Visible vein removal: ND YAG laser can effectively target and coagulate visible veins, such as spider veins or broken capillaries, resulting in a smoother and clearer complexion.

3.Safe and precise treatment: ND YAG laser treatment is non-invasive, safe for all skin types, and provides consistent results when performed by a skilled professional.

Ideal Candidates for ND YAG Laser Treatment

ND YAG laser treatment is suitable for individuals who:

– Desire to reduce unwanted pigmentation, including age spots, sun damage, or melasma.

– Seek treatment for visible veins on the face or body.

– Have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the treatment.

– Are in good overall health and do not have any contraindications to laser therapy.

In what situations do we use ND YAG Laser hyperpigmentation treatment?

1.Brown age spots (solar lentigines).

2.Freckles.

3.Naevi: naevus of Ota, naevus of Ito, mongolian spots, Hori naevus and café-au-lait-macules.

4.Dermal Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

5.Exogenous ochronosis (Post bleaching darkening from long term use of hydroquinone).

It is recommended that patients have 2 to 6 treatments, approximately every 4 to 6 weeks apart to achieve desired results.

How do you prepare for ND YAG laser procedure?

Just like every procedure that has the potential to cause inflammation, to reduce the chances of post procedure darkening especially in skin of colour, we commence the use of sun protection and hypopigmenting creams 2 weeks prior. You cease intake of ginger, gingko biloba, garlic, ginseng, NSAIDS like ibuprofen, aspirin 2 weeks before procedure to reduce chances of bruising. 

Are there any side effects from ND YAG laser treatment?

Side effects from Q-switched ND YAG laser hyperpigmentation treatment are usually minor and may include:

1.Pain during treatment (reduced by skin cooling or topical anaesthetic)

2.Redness, swelling and itching after the procedure that may last a few days after treatment.

3.In some cases, blistering can occur (this settles by itself).

4.Changes in skin pigmentation. Sometimes the pigment cells (melanocytes) can be damaged, leaving darker (hyperpigmentation) or paler (hypopigmentation) patches of skin. This is mostly temporary.

5.Bruising affects up to 10% of patients. It usually fades on its own.

6.Skin can peel during the healing process.

Rejuvenation with ND YAG laser

Rejuvenation with ND YAG laser is a unique procedure that enables not only skin rejuvenation but also removal of acne or post-acne scars as well as unifying the skin surface. The result of the procedure and application of the ND YAG laser serves as a treatment of such aesthetic defects as:

1.Loss of skin elasticity.

2.Occurrence of mimic wrinkles caused by ageing.

3.Enlarged pores.

4.Skin roughness.

5.Scars and stretch marks.

6.Post-acne scars.

7.Flabby skin on the face, neck and chest area.

This safe method is suitable for the face, neck and décolleté. In addition to rejuvenating the skin, it allows you to remove acne and traces of acne and even out the surface of the skin. Dermatologists recommend this method even for sensitive skin types. During the procedure, ideal conditions are created for the stimulation of connective tissue cells fibroblasts, which begin to actively produce new collagen, which causes the smoothing of wrinkles, improvement of skin turgor and skin condition.

Advantages of the ND YAG laser procedure

1.Non-contact method, also suitable for sensitive skin.

2.Guaranteed rejuvenation without damaging the lower layers of the skin

3.Painless intervention.

4.No side effects (hyperpigmentation, scars, long-term swelling).

5.Short rehabilitation period.

Laser rejuvenation also combines well with biorevitalization, botulinum toxin type A injections and face modeling with lifting threads. In this combination, a much greater effect can be achieved than with the application of any of the above procedures alone. 

For skin toning by ND YAG laser treatment of pigmented lesions and dark tattoo removal

Patients seeking to remove tattoos, birthmarks, or hyperpigmentation may be recommended the Q-Switched ND YAG laser. This laser is specifically designed to target different types of pigments in the skin and can result in significant lightening of tattoos and pigmented lesions. The Q-switched ND YAG laser precisely targets and treats specific pigment in the skin, effectively addressing damaged skin cells in the treatment area. In the realm of laser tattoo removal, the Q-switched ND YAG laser focuses on ink pigment, utilizing intense bursts of energy to break it down into smaller particles. These particles are then absorbed into the bloodstream and naturally eliminated from the body.