Q-Switched Nd:YAG · Port Coquitlam
Q-Switched Nd:YAG
Pigment Laser
Nanosecond pulses shatter stubborn pigment into micro-particles your body clears on its own. The precise answer to dark spots, sun damage and uneven tone, safe across skin tones.
Treatment Time
20–40 min
Sessions
3–6
Downtime
Minimal
Pigment Clears
2–4 wks
Benefits
Why Clients Choose It
Shatters Stubborn Pigment
Nanosecond pulses fragment melanin deposits that creams and IPL cannot reach.
Two Depths, Two Wavelengths
1064nm reaches deep dermal pigment; 532nm lifts superficial spots. One platform for both.
Safe for Deeper Tones
The 1064nm wavelength bypasses surface melanin, a go-to for Fitzpatrick IV–VI.
Brightens Overall Tone
Laser toning mode delivers a uniform, luminous complexion, a K-beauty staple.
Carbon Facial Ready
The same platform powers our carbon laser facial for glow and oil control.
Minimal Downtime
Mild redness for a few hours; most clients return straight to their day.
The Science
How It Works
Q-Switching releases laser energy in ultra-short nanosecond bursts. The pulse is faster than heat can spread, so the energy shatters pigment particles with a photo-acoustic effect, like breaking a stone with sound, while surrounding tissue stays untouched.
Your lymphatic system clears the fragmented pigment over the following weeks. We select 1064nm for deep pigment or 532nm for superficial spots, and low-fluence toning for overall brightening.
Technology · Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser
A dual-wavelength (1064nm / 532nm) nanosecond laser, the clinical standard for benign pigmented lesions, laser toning and carbon facials, with settings tuned per skin tone and pigment depth.
1064nm Deep Pigment532nm Surface SpotsNanosecond PulsesLaser Toning Mode
Your Visit
Treatment Steps
01
Pigment Mapping
We identify each lesion type and depth and set the protocol.
02
Preparation
We cleanse your skin and fit protective eyewear. Numbing is seldom needed but available.
03
Laser Pass
Precise pulses target each spot, or sweep the full face in toning mode.
04
Cool Down
Cooling and a calming serum settle the skin within minutes.
05
Clearance Tracking
Pigment darkens then fades over 2–4 weeks; we review and re-treat monthly as needed.
Who It's For
- Dark spots, sun spots and age spots
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Melasma (managed carefully with toning)
- Uneven, dull skin tone
- Deeper skin tones needing a safe pigment option
Contraindications
- Recent tan or sun exposure
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active infection, cold sores or open skin
- Isotretinoin within 6 months
- Suspicious lesions: referred to a physician first
How to Prepare
- No sun, tanning or self-tanner for 2–4 weeks
- Stop retinoids and brightening acids 5 days prior
- Have any suspicious mole checked by your doctor first
- Arrive with clean, product-free skin
Aftercare
- Treated spots darken and flake over 1–2; do not pick
- Gentle cleanser and moisturizer only for 48 hours
- Strict SPF 30+ daily; sun can re-darken pigment
- Avoid heat (saunas, hot yoga) for 24–48 hours
FAQ
Q-Switched Nd:YAG Questions
How is Q-Switched different from IPL?
IPL is a broad light for diffuse sun damage and redness. Q-Switched is a true laser with nanosecond pulses that shatter concentrated, stubborn or deep pigment, and it is safer on darker skin tones.
Does it hurt?
Each pulse feels like a tiny elastic snap. Full-face toning is tolerable; spot treatments take seconds per lesion.
Can it treat melasma?
Yes, with care. Melasma responds best to gentle, low-fluence toning over multiple sessions plus strict sun protection. Aggressive settings can worsen it, which is why protocol matters.
How many sessions will I need?
Individual sun spots often clear in 1–3 sessions. Diffuse pigmentation and melasma usually need 4–6+ toning sessions spaced monthly.
Begin Today
Ready for Q-Switched Nd:YAG?
Book your complimentary consultation at our Port Coquitlam studio, serving Coquitlam, Port Moody and the Lower Mainland.