Q SWITCH LASER FOR MELASMA

Q-switch (QS) lasers are a popular treatment option for melasma, a common skin condition characterized by brown or gray-brown patches on the face. These lasers are known for their ability to target and break down pigmentation with minimal damage to the surrounding skin.

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How Q-Switch Lasers Work for Melasma

Q-switch lasers deliver high-intensity pulses of light in extremely short durations (nanoseconds). This rapid burst of energy is absorbed by the excess melanin (pigment) in the skin. The energy shatters the pigment into tiny particles, which are then naturally absorbed and eliminated by the body's immune system.

A key benefit of Q-switch lasers is that they are "pigment-selective," meaning they specifically target the melanin without causing significant heat damage to the surrounding tissue. This is a crucial factor for melasma, as heat and inflammation can worsen the condition.

Types of Q-Switch Lasers for Melasma

The most common type of Q-switched laser used for melasma is the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, particularly at the 1064 nm wavelength. This wavelength is preferred for several reasons:

    Deep Penetration: The 1064 nm wavelength penetrates deeper into the skin, which is effective for treating melasma that has pigmentation in the dermal (deeper) layer.

    Safety for Darker Skin Tones: The longer wavelength is less absorbed by epidermal (surface) melanin, reducing the risk of side effects like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is a common concern for people with darker skin.

    At Bergstrom Aesthetics we use a "Laser Toning" Technique: The treatment is often performed using a low-fluence (low energy), large-spot-size, multi-pass technique known as "laser toning." This gentle approach gradually fades the pigmentation over several sessions with minimal downtime.