Pico Laser vs. Q-Switch: Is Q-Switch the Best Laser for Tattoo Removal?

Aesthetic treatments have certainly advanced over the last few years, particularly in tattoo removal and pigmentation correction. Two cutting-edge laser technologies dominate the landscape: the Q-Switch Nd:YAG Laser and the Pico Laser. In this Blog, we explore the technical differences and applications of these lasers, especially helpful if you are yet to make a decision and considering your best option for tattoo removal.

 

The Q-Switch Nd:YAG Laser is a leader in medical and aesthetic practices. It operates by emitting short pulses of high-intensity light targeted at specific tissues, ranging from pigmented lesions to tattoo inks. It involves exciting innovative technology the Nd:YAG laser crystal through a flash lamp or diode, subsequently directing the laser beam onto the designated tissue. This laser’s distinguishing feature lies in its ability to produce ultra-short pulses (measured in nanoseconds) with exceptionally high peak power, facilitating selective targeting of pigmented lesions or tattoo ink while safeguarding surrounding tissue from damage. Q-Switch Lasers use very short but high-energy pulses, typically only a nano-second long. This creates a photomechanical effect on the skin. Q-Switch Lasers are perfect for treating tattoos and pigmentation. The short but high energy pulses cause rapid heating, generating a shockwave that breaks down the pigment.

 

On the other hand, Pico Lasers, deliver ultra-short pulses of light in picoseconds. Utilising high-power laser diodes, these lasers generate pulses of light at specific wavelengths, typically 755 nm or 1064 nm, focusing them onto the target area, whether it is tattoo ink or pigmented lesions. The ultra-short pulses induce a photoacoustic effect, creating a mechanical pressure wave that disintegrates pigment into smaller fragments, subsequently eliminated by the body’s immune system.

 

While both lasers share similar applications, several key distinctions set them apart:

 

The primary variance lies in pulse duration. Q-Switch Nd:YAG Lasers wield nanosecond pulses, while Pico Lasers offer much shorter bursts in picoseconds. This distinction allows Pico Lasers to administer faster, although the Q-Switch laser targets a broader spectrum of treatments.

The different wavelengths and power levels cater to various ink colours in laser tattoo removal. For instance, Q-Switch lasers employing a 532nm wavelength target red, orange, and purple inks. it’s recommended to use the Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm, 532 nm) to treat dark pigments like black, blue, and warm toned colours.

 

Q-switch lasers deliver precise results, these  Nd:YAG technology remain steadfast in tattoo removal market and  they are significant in striking a balance between pulse duration and power tailored to specific treatments.