660 nm: a safer alternative in skins of color
Objectives: The Q switched lasers have become one of the most versatile devices in laser practice in the recent past. The objective of this presentation would be to bring forth the latest techniques employed in the use of the Q switched Nd:YAG lasers and to demonstrate the versatility of these newer systems. The availability of the dye kit hand pieces in the newer QSLs has made it possible to produce 660 nm wavelength which is safer than the 532nm due to its specificity of absorption into the melanin sparing the hemoglobin
Introduction: The Q switched lasers have come a long way. From being the treatment for a very limted indications like tatoos and birth marks the scope of useful indications has increased tremendously. These machines are now used for Laser toning, carbon peels, textural improvement, pico for scar management, dyekit hand pieces producing different wavelengths and so on and so forth.
Materials / method: We have been using the modern Q switched Nd:YAG laser system with the latest technological advancements and attachments in our patients
The 532nm wavelength has always been a difficult wavelength to use in darker skin considering its absorption into both the melanin and the oxyhemoglobin.
The availability of the dye kit hand pieces in the newer QSLs has made it possible to produce 660 nm wavelength which is safer than the 532nm due to its specificity of absorption into the melanin sparing the hemoglobin
Results: We have been using the 660 nm wavelength to treat the epidermal pigmented lesions like freckles and lentigines in our patients with dark skin and have found that it is equally efficacious as the 532 nm wavelength and at the same time is associated with lesser post laser complications
Conclusion: To conclude the newer additions to the QSLs has made these machines extremely versatile and useful in the present day derma laser practice. The availability of the 660 nm wavelength has reduced the possibility of serious post laser complications in skins of colour while maintaining the efficacy of treatment
