Tattoo removal using laser machines is the only tried and tested method of getting rid of popular body art. It is not only effective in bringing out the desired results but also eliminates all the nasty side-effects associated with alternative methods of tattoo removal. However, not all laser machines are made equal, as the q-switched Nd:YAG laser is arguably the most commonly preferred type when it comes to offering laser tattoo removal treatments. It works according to selective photothermolysis while also producing a photoacoustic effect. In this blog, we give you a front-row seat to an exploration of the popular tattoo removal laser technology.

The technology

While more than a few types of lasers can be used to fade or remove tattoos, not all of them can do the job as well as the Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser machine when it comes to multi-colored tattoos. This is because the laser emits a green light which is highly absorbed by orange and red targets. That is why the technology is a clinically proven gold standard of tattoo removal. The giant short pulses obtained through Q-Switching eliminate tattoos by impacting and dissolving the ink pigment that makes up the artwork. Q-Switching, which entails control of the light emitted during treatments through focusing all energy towards intense bursts or a series of pulses. This is achieved by modulating the Q-factor, also known as intracavity losses of its resonator.

Common Q-Switch lasers

There are a few popular short-pulsed, high-intensity, and pigment selective Q-Switched lasers in the market today. These include:

• Q-Switched Ruby laser (694nm wavelength and 28-40ns pulse duration)

• Q-Switched Alexandrite laser (755nm wavelength and 50-100ns pulse duration)

• Q-Switched Neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser (1,064nm and 5-1-ns)

Last Word

While some studies tout picosecond lasers is being the next best thing when it comes to targeting different-colored pigments as opposed to nanosecond options such as the Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser due to the need for many wavelengths, the jury is still out on that call. When shopping for a tattoo removal laser for your practice, make sure you discuss your requirement with product experts to get professional advice and guidance. You can also consult other users of the technology to hear what they have to say about their experience with the technologies. The first step is isolating a reputable dealer who gives you access to extensive choice in terms of makes and models. They must also be in a position to render the necessary training and arrange routine maintenance as well as repairs as and when required.