They were once considered the gold standard of tattoo-removal.
Q-switch lasers use a “Q-switched” technique to emit tight pulses of concentrated photons (light energy).
The laser beam is powerful enough to penetrate deep into the skin yet gentle enough to treat the face.
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The FDA considers the Q-switch laser safe and effective for its intended uses.
This article reviews the various types and uses of the Q-switched laser.
Uses
The Q-switched laser serves many purposes in cosmetic dermatology.
This makes it a valuable tool in skin resurfacing (i.e.
wrinkle reduction), not to mention its various medical uses.
Tattoo Removal
Q-switch lasers come in different wavelengths.
Q-switch lasers remove tattoos by penetrating into the skin then heating tattoo ink until it shatters.
The ink is then filtered out of the body through thelymphatic system.
When used correctly, Q-switch lasers break down tattoo ink without damaging or scarring the surrounding skin.
The improvements were significant, although none of the tattoos were completely gone after three sessions.
In 2014, researchers noted excellent improvements in nevus of Ota following Q-switch laser removal.
No adverse side effects were reported and little to no recovery time was needed.
Lentiginesare flat, hyper-pigmented spots sparked by sun exposure or aging skin.
A 2016 study showed significant improvements in lentigines after just one Q-switched laser session.
Melasmais a condition in which hyper-pigmented spots or patches form, typically on the face.
Studies show that Q-switched laser treatments can fade them substantially within three, once-per-month treatments.
Only mild, temporary side effects like itching have been reported.
Cafe-au-laitare flat patches of hyper-pigmented skin seen on newborn infants.
For a 2019 study in China, cafe-au-lait spots in 471 children were treated with Q-switch lasers.
An overall success rate of 79% was reported for cafe-au-lait removal with no adverse side effects reported.
Spider angiomaare sometimes called spider veins due to their red or purple spider-like appearance.
Spider angiomas are because of dilated (widened) blood vessels near the surface of your skin.
Q-switch lasers have been used to reduce spider angiomas in the face and neck with favorable results.
Skin Rejuvenation
Laser liposuctionis a non-invasive alternative to liposuction with little to no recovery time.
One 2014 study found that Q-switched laser liposuction resulted in 54% less blood loss compared to traditional liposuction.
Acne scarscan be effectively treated with a Q-switched laser.
No significant side effects were reported.
The Q-switch treatments were regarded as safe and effective.
Skin resurfacingprocedures are commonly done using Q-switched lasers.
Treatments aim to improve skin tone and texture, diminish wrinkles, and reduce the skin’s oil production.
Are Q-Switched Lasers Good for Hair Removal?
Q-switched lasers are FDA-approved for lightening or removing hair.
Q-switched lasers are available in different wavelengths.
Longer wavelengths penetrate deeper into the skin.
The energy is absorbed by the ink particles, which then shatter into tiny fragments.
Laser treatments are typically done every six weeks.
Many times, tattoos are unable to be removed completely.
Melanin is produced in the skin’s epidermis (second layer), where collagen is produced.
Q-switch lasers reduce hyperpigmentation in a similar way that they do tattoos.
The Q-switch laser directs light energy into the epidermis, shattering excess pigmentation.
The excess melanin is then absorbed by the lymphatic system and filtered from the body.
Before Treatment
Consultations with a healthcare provider or dermatologist are typically required before a laser procedure.
During your consultation, your provider may:
The consultation is a great time to ask questions.
Whether you choose to follow through with a procedure after your consultation is entirely up to you.
In some cases your provider may be able to perform the procedure within the same day.
Other times, you may need to book for a later date.
Sun damage, acquired before or after your procedure, can affect your laser procedure’s results.
Always protect your skin by wearing long layers and sunscreen on sun-exposed areas.
They may also ask you to avoid the sun.
Treatment Day
Your provider may or may not have you wear a medical gown.
They may apply a numbing cream or local anesthetic to your skin before the procedure begins.
You will also be given eye shields to protect your eyes.
Afterwards, you may be given the option to schedule your next laser treatment, if needed.
There should be at least six to eight weeks between each laser session.
Q Switch Laser Safety
Q-switched laser technology is widely regarded as safe and effective.
In addition, studies have found high levels of patient satisfaction following Q-switched laser treatments.
Before and after photos show Q-switched laser treatments resulted in clear reductions in wrinkles and melanin.
The only side effects reported were mild irritation and redness, lasting just a few days post-procedure.
Q-switched lasers should only be used for their intended purposes by a qualified healthcare provider.
Recovery and aftercare are especially important for ensure proper healing and high quality results.
Who Should Not Get Q-Switch Laser Treatment?
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the reason you’re getting the laser treatment.
For example, using a Q-switched laser to treat toenail fungus may only take two treatments.
Tattoo removal with a Q-switched laser may take six or more treatments.
They are similar but not the same.
The amount of time the laser is administered is how the Pico laser got its name.
It has been shown that picosecond lasers may be more effective than nanosecond lasers (like the Q-switched).
Yes, the results of a Q-switched laser are permanent.
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