Q-switched
A Q-switched laser delivers ultra-short, powerful pulses that effectively fragment pigment and tattoo ink without damaging the skin. This technique is widely used for tattoo removal, pigment treatments, and skin rejuvenation.
Q-switched laser
A Q-switched laser is a type of laser that uses a technique called "Q-switching" to generate extremely short, powerful energy pulses. These pulses typically last between 5 and 20 nanoseconds and are primarily used to quickly and effectively fragment pigment, tattoo ink, or other chromophores in the skin. The high intensity and short pulse duration create a photomechanical effect, pulverizing the target tissue without significant thermal damage to surrounding tissue.
This technology has been successfully applied for decades in dermatology and aesthetic medicine, especially for tattoo removal, pigment disorders en skin rejuvenation.
What is a Q-switched laser?
A Q-switched laser uses an optical mechanism that temporarily stores the energy buildup in the laser source and then releases it in a single, very powerful flash. This results in a short but intense energy pulse ideal for breaking down pigment particles or ink molecules. These particles are then cleared by the body's lymphatic system.
Q-switched lasers are available in multiple wavelengths, including 532 nm (for superficial pigment), 755 nm (Alexandrite), and 1064 nm (Nd: YAG), making them suitable for a wide range of skin indications.
Benefits of a Q-switched laser
- Very effective for tattoo removal (both black and colored pigment)
- Precise targeting of pigment without damaging surrounding skin
- Non-ablative action with little to no downtime
- Proven technology with clinical substantiation
- Possibly for skin rejuvenation with specific settings (such as toning)
Types of Q-switched lasers
- Q-switched Nd:YAG (1064 nm / 532 nm): Highly versatile and widely applicable for pigment, tattoos and skin rejuvenation.
- Q-switched Alexandrite (755 nm): More suitable for blue/green pigments.
- Q-switched Ruby (694 nm): Historically used for superficial pigments, but less commonly used in modern practices.
Questions?
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Leave your detailsFor which indications is a Q-switched laser suitable?
Tattoo removal
Q-switched lasers are the gold standard for tattoo removal. The short, powerful pulses fragment ink particles into smaller pieces that can be removed by the body. Black, red, and dark blue pigments respond particularly well to the 1064 nm and 532 nm wavelengths.
Pigmentation treatments
Both superficial pigments (such as lentigines, sun spots) and some forms of melasma can be treated with Q-switched lasers. The high-energy pulses safely break down melanin.
Skin improvement with Q-switched
With settings such as “laser toning” collagen production can be stimulated, which leads to an evened out complexion, refinement of pores and improved skin texture.
FAQ
Q-switching is a technique in which a laser pulse is built up to a very high energy before being released in a single, short burst. This results in a very short but powerful pulse, ideal for fragmenting pigments.
For tattoo removal, pigment disorders such as lentigines and PIH, and in some cases for skin rejuvenation and skin lightening.
There are passive (such as crystals or dye cells) and active Q-switches (such as electro-optic or acousto-optic systems). Active Q-switches are commonly used in medical lasers for better control.
Pico lasers Use pulses in the picosecond range, which is even shorter than the nanoseconds of Q-switched lasers. This makes pico lasers often more effective at fragmenting stubborn pigments or inks, and they create less thermal stress. However, Q-switched lasers are still very effective, more widely available, and often more affordable.
Yes. It's one of the most commonly used and proven methods for tattoo removal, especially those with black and red pigment.
That depends on your target audience, desired indications, and budget. Nd: YAG Q-switched lasers offer great flexibility and are suitable for most applications.
On average, tattoo removal requires 6 to 10 sessions, depending on the type of ink, location, and skin type. Pigment treatments often require fewer sessions.
Buy a Q-switched laser or need more information?
Want to learn more about Q-switched laser technology or get advice on which system is best for your practice? Contact us at + 31(0) 162 74 44 44 or fill out our contact form. We are happy to advise you about the options, demonstrations and possible Courses.