Skin Club by DermaGenesis

The Q Switch Nd YAG Laser has multiple uses. They include:

• Non Ablative Laser Rejuvenation (NALR) using carbon peel for skin rejuvenation
• 532 nm for treatment of epidermal pigmentation
• 1064 nm for treatment of dermal pigmentation and tattoo removal

Non Ablative Laser Rejuvenation (NALR)

Non Ablative Laser Rejuvenation (NALR) using carbon peel is a new technique of using medical grade Lasers for skin rejuvenation for all skin types. This technique uses the Q switch NdYAG laser at 1064 nm.
A layer of carbon is first applied onto the skin. The carbon acts like a ‘magnet’ and adheres to the dead cells, both on the skin surface and the walls of the open pores. The laser is fired onto the carbon. The carbon absorbs most of the laser energy and gets fragmented along with the dead cells, resulting in a perfect skin exfoliation. Simultaneously, the laser energy is distributed as heat energy into the dermis without affecting the outer layers of the skin (the epidermis). The heat energy weakens the pigment cells, stimulates new collagen / cell growth and restores the skin integrity.

NALR has the following effects on the skin:

• A perfect skin exfoliation
• Removes blackheads and whiteheads
• Stimulate collagen growth and reduces fine lines and open pores
• Reduce acne, scars and post acne discoloration
• Reduce pigmentary conditions such as age spots, freckles, melasma, etc
• Improves skin texture and restores radiance
• Restores skin integrity and optimizes the skin health

532 nm Q-Switch NdYAG laser

The same Q Switch Nd YAG Laser has the 532 nm wavelength, which is ideal to treat epidermal pigmentation such as freckles, solar lentiges, epidermal melasma, etc. 532 nm laser energy selectively destroys melanin found in the epidermis. Following the 532 nm spot treatment, the pigmented area turns red and a mild scab (observing the size and shape of the original pigmentation) may form within a day or two. This scab falls off within a few days and leaves behind a normal skin without any pigmentation. Occasionally, a few weeks later, some individuals may develop secondary pigmentation at the treated site. This is however self limiting and normally resolves within a month or two.


1064 nm Q-Switch NdYAG laser

The 1064 nm wavelength produced by the same Q Switch Nd YAG Laser is ideal for tattoo removal, dermal pigmentation and treating certain pigmentary conditions such as Nevus of Ota and Hori’s Nevus. The 1064 nm laser energy selectively destroys the endogenous melanin found in the dermis and exogenous melanin as in tattoo removal.

The procedure

While both the NALR and 532 nm procedure should not hurt, patients may experience a sensation of heat in the treated areas. An individual may require 4 – 7 treatments done once in 2 - 3 weeks. The actual number of treatment would depend on the severity of the skin condition, skin type and lifestyle. Upon achieving the desired results, the NALR treatment can be continued for a prolonged duration at regular intervals of 3 - 5 weeks to maintain a healthier, radiant looking skin and to prevent the recurrence of the initial condition.
There is no restriction of daily activities after the treatment. However, it is advisable to apply more moisturizer and sun block to soothe the skin and stay away from excessive sun exposure during the recovery period.

Q-Switch NdYAG laser results

The effects of NALR are normally noticeable after few treatments. The initial concern, such as pigmentation, acne, scars, open pores, etc may not be eliminated completely initially, but the skin will appear healthier, radiant and clearer after few treatments. Results are even better if sun exposure, smoking and stress are kept to a minimum. The results may last for months to a year or two; however, the longevity of NALR effects depends on the skin condition, skin type and lifestyle.

Q-Switch NdYAG laser safety, risks and side effects

The common side effects are pain, itching, redness and / or swelling for few days. In rare cases, some patients may experience scab formation, bruises, infection and temporary hypo or hyper-pigmentation.

Uses of Q-Switch NdYAG laser

Uses of Q-Switch NdYAG laser includes:

• To treat pigmentation, especially freckles
• Tattoo removal
• To enhance new cell production and reduce open pores
• Strengthens the collagen matrix and reduce fine lines
• Skin firmness is enhanced
• Eliminates dead cells from the epidermis

Reference:

Geronemus RG. Fractional photothermolysis: current and future applications. Lasers Surg Med 2006; 38:169-76.K, Quevedo WC Jr, Fitzpatrick TB, Szabó G. Biology of melanocytes. In: Freedberg IM, Fitzpatrick TB, eds. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in general medicine. 4th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1993:261-89. Pulsed Light for the treatment of Facial Freckles in Asian Skin; Huang Y-L.[1]; Liao Y-L.[1]; Lee S-H.[1]; Hong H-S.;Department of Dermatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwanclinical results of IPL photorejuvenation; James Brazil[1]; Patti Owens[1]; Olympic Dermatology and Laser Clinic Olympia Washington USACK, Fitzpatrick RE. The treatment of melasma with fractional photothermolysis: a pilot study. Dermatol Surg 2005; 31:1645-50.