Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers are frequently employed in aesthetic medicine for pigment lesion and tattoo removal. These devices emit short, high-energy pulses of light at specific wavelengths (typically 1064 nm and 532 nm) that are absorbed by the tattoo ink particles. This absorption causes the ink to fragment into smaller pieces, which are then gradually removed by the body’s natural processes.
The selective targeting of pigment by these lasers minimizes damage to surrounding tissue, leading to improved cosmetic outcomes. Compared to older tattoo removal methods, this technology offers a more precise, less invasive, and often faster approach. The historical development of Q-switched lasers represents a significant advancement in dermatological procedures, providing a solution for a previously challenging aesthetic concern. Different wavelengths allow practitioners to target a broader spectrum of ink colors, increasing treatment efficacy.