Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser (Pigmentation & Tattoo)

Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser delivers nanosecond-pulse-duration energy at 1,064 nm and 532 nm wavelengths — the gold-standard tool for melasma, deep dermal pigment, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, lentigines, freckles, and tattoo removal. Gen Z Clinic uses an FDA-certified system suited to all Fitzpatrick skin types, including darker Asian skin where wrong-tool laser choices easily cause rebound hyperpigmentation.

Q-Switching is a laser pulse-duration technology — the laser fires energy in nanoseconds, fast enough to shatter pigment particles via photoacoustic shockwave without heating surrounding skin. This makes Q-Switched Nd:YAG safer than thermal lasers (CO₂, IPL) for the dermal pigment seen in Asian skin types and for tattoo work. Two wavelengths in one device: • 1,064 nm — penetrates 4–6 mm, treats deep dermal melanin (melasma, ABNOM, Hori's nevus) and dark tattoo pigment (black, dark blue) • 532 nm — superficial dermis, treats epidermal pigment (lentigines, freckles, café-au-lait) and red / orange tattoo pigment Melasma protocol — 'laser toning': low-fluence 1,064 nm at 5-Hz repetition with multiple passes, 1–2 weeks apart for a 6–10 session course. Disrupts melanosomes without injuring the basement membrane (the layer whose injury causes rebound). Combined with strict SPF + topical (azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, or hydroquinone-class). Tattoo removal: high-fluence single pulses, 6–10 sessions 6–8 weeks apart for amateur tattoos; professional / multi-color tattoos can require 10–20+ sessions and may not clear completely. Lentigines / freckles: a single high-fluence 532 nm pulse over each spot. Spot darkens like a dark scab for 5–10 days, then sheds. 1–2 sessions usually enough. Sensation: snap of a rubber band per pulse. Topical anaesthetic available for sensitive zones. Post-laser: mild redness, possible pinpoint petechiae, small frosting on tattoos; SPF50 essential for 4 weeks. What the clinic doesn't promise: melasma 'cure' (it's a chronic, hormonally driven condition and recurs without lifelong sun control); tattoo removal 'guarantee' (some pigments — especially yellow, light-blue, white-overlay — resist Q-Switch and need pico-laser).