It is a beam of energy at a specific wavelength (1064nm) which is applied to the skin and is absorbed by coloured pigments such as freckles, age spots, etc. in the skin. The power settings of the laser can be set at different levels and frequencies to accommodate your specific condition and expectations.
The Q-Switched Laser is an extremely versatile machine and can be used to target different concerns – pigmentation, acne marks, pimples and acne, skin brightening, skin rejuvenation, tattoo removal.
Acne marks are caused by inflammation (the redness and pain) from pimples. The inflammation causes the skin to produce pigments, which can be effectively removed with the laser.
The laser energy can also kill P-acne, which is the bacteria that causes pimples and acne. At the same time, the laser energy also shrinks the oil glands in the skin and helps with oil control. Pimples and acne also tend to be less inflamed after laser treatments and this reduces the amount of acne marks after a breakout.
The laser energy feels like many tiny hot dots on your skin. The process is very tolerable.
The best part of the Q-switched laser is that it is effective with no downtime!
A mild pinkish flush might be present for about 15mins after the laser. You can put on makeup immediately after a laser treatment and head straight back to work.
The Q-Switched laser is now probably the most common laser procedure performed in Singapore.
Many no-frills clinics have started offering short and quick laser procedures. These places are also using the Q-Switched lasers. The differences between a no-frills laser treatment and the usual Q-switched laser treatment are:
Results: Expect a tailored program and laser setting for each individual for more effective clearance of pigmentation, pimples or marks with the usual Q-Switched laser treatment.
Safety: Everything should be done in moderation. The risk of side effects from no-frills laser treatments are greatly increased due the increased number of sessions you would have to go in order to see similar results. These side effects include hypopigmentation (white patches on the skin) and hyperpigmentation (darker pigments due to over-stimulation of the skin).
Time saving: Usual Q-Switched laser treatments last for about 12-15mins and is done once every 3-4 weeks. This saves time unlike no-frills laser treatments which only last for 1-2mins each and you would be advised to do these treatments up to 3-7 times a week.
Cost-effective: The cost of a usual Q-switched laser treatment done in a clinic averages between $250 – $300. No-frills laser treatments might seem cheaper (as low as $30/treatment) due to a lower cost per treatment, but may in fact be more expensive in total. The shorter duration (1-2mins/treatment) and increased number of treatments (30-50 treatments) required for a no-frills laser treatment will amount to higher cost for a similar result.
Avoid sun exposure for the next 7-10 days. Also apply an appropriate sunscreen.