What Does Nd:YAG Laser Do?

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Laser technology in dermatology has come a long way, becoming increasingly sophisticated and versatile. Its evolution has been marked by significant evolutions and advancements over the years, from the early development of ablative lasers targeting the surface layers of the skin to the introduction of non-ablative lasers penetrating deeper into the dermis.

Among the many types of lasers revolutionising skincare is the Nd:YAG. Read through this post to learn how this laser technology works and what it is used for. We’ve also mentioned the Nd:YAG clearV laser and its fantastic benefits.

clearV laser

An Overview of Nd:YAG Lasers

Modern laser technologies come in various types and functions, differentiated by the medium that produces their laser beam. The Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG), for instance, is a crystal lasing medium for solid-state lasers. These lasers carry out different functions depending on the beam’s wavelength and penetration.

In solid-state lasers, this crystalline medium produces radiation in the infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum. The radiation is invisible, with a wavelength of 1064 nanometres that reaches deeper layers of skin tissue than other types of lasers. But how can a crystalline medium emit radiation in the first place?

The Science and History Behind

The laser operation of Nd:YAG was first observed at Bell Laboratories in 1964. It is created by substituting triply ionized neodymium, which acts as a dopant (a material added in trace amounts to another pure substance to change its conductivity), for a small portion of the yttrium ions in the YAG crystal. Since the two ions are of similar size, the yttrium ions can be replaced with the neodymium dopant, emitting light at a specific wavelength when stimulated by an external energy source.

The energy source can be a flash lamp or another laser. When the neodymium dopant is excited, photons are then released, bouncing back and forth within the crystal structure, gradually amplifying in intensity. This process results in the formation of a powerful laser beam.

Nd:YAG lasers typically consist of a four-level medium that offers remarkable laser gain at moderate pump intensities and excitation levels, with the gain bandwidth being relatively small. This, in turn, improves laser’s gain efficiency, minimising threshold pump power. This gives their ability to deliver precise and controlled energy for cutting, welding, engraving, and medical procedures, which explains why this laser technology is the superb choice in various medical, industrial, and scientific applications.

Nd:YAG Lasers in Cosmetic Dermatology

Now that you know how Nd:YAG lasers emit a wavelength of high energy light, this time let’s identify what these lasers are used for. In dermatology, Nd:YAG lasers treat certain skin conditions by creating heat and destroying diseased cells on a target body part.

These lasers, like clearV, are a non-surgical aesthetic treatment for various skincare concerns, including aging signs and pigmented lesions. They are also the ideal solution for vascular lesions like spider veins, broken capillaries, and varicose veins.

In this section, we’ve listed some skin concerns that can be addressed with Nd:YAG laser.

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

The loss of collagen and suppleness in the skin is the first indication of aging. With Nd:YAG laser, it’s possible to create smoother, tighter skin.

This laser technology emits precise wavelengths of laser light into the skin, directly targeting damaged and highly pigmented skin cells. This encourages new cell growth and stimulates collagen production.

fine lines treatment

Vascular Lesions

Nd:YAG laser treatments, like clearV laser, target varicose veins and spider and thread veins in the face (cheek, temporal region, nasal dorsum, forehead) and legs. They can also resolve facial veins (telangiectasia), vascular birthmarks (capillary vascular malformation), and vascular tumours (haemangioma). The science behind this is clever: the laser light pulses target red pigment (haemoglobin) in red blood cells to break down these lesions.

The number of treatments to see visible results varies, depending on the form, size and location of the lesions as well as the skin type. Individuals wanting to minimise the appearance of small red vessels need only 1 to 3 sessions. Those with more prominent veins may need several sessions to achieve their desired outcome.

varicose veins clearv2 treatment

 

Pigmented Lesions

The Nd:YAG laser is also an effective solution for hyperpigmentation, including brown age spots (solar lentigines), sun damage, freckles, Naevus of Ota (blue-to-grey speckled or mottled patches affecting the forehead, temple, and malar area), Naevus of Ito (patch on the shoulder or upper arms with blue, grey, or brown pigmentation), and dark pigmentation around the eyes.
It dives deep beneath the skin’s surface to target highly pigmented skin cells and destroy them, leading to a more even skin tone overall.

Tattoo Removal

People have different reasons for getting tattoo removal. With a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, one can get rid of blue, grey and black tattoos more safely and effectively. The procedure involves the selective destruction of ink molecules, which are then absorbed by macrophages (white blood cells that surround and kill microorganisms and remove dead cells) and eliminated.

The duration and the outcome of the laser treatment for tattoo removal are contingent on the colour of the tattoo and the depth of the pigment. Individuals may attain favourable results after multiple sessions (5 to 20 sessions) spaced at least 7 weeks apart.

clearV laser Tattoo Removal treatment

Hair Removal

Hair removal in any area, such as the bikini line, face, neck, back, chest, and legs, is another use for the Nd:YAG laser. However, light-coloured (blonde/grey) hair usually does not respond well to this type of laser. This laser technology has been shown to be more effective for treating dark (brown/black) hair in patients of Fitzpatrick types I to III and light-coloured type IV skin.
Patients can see noticeable results after 2 to 6 treatments, approximately every 4 to 6 weeks. Those with darker hair may require more sessions.

Onychomycosis

Common fungal infections of the fingernails or toenails, known as onychomycosis, can cause the nail to become discoloured and separate from the nail bed. Flashlamp-pumped short-pulse Nd:YAG 1064 nm lasers may be used for treatment.

Safe and Effective Laser Treatments to Boost Your Confidence

The Nd:YAG laser system offers patients a wide range of options for various skin issues, but it’s most famous for treating unwanted vessels on the body. The Nd:YAG ClearV vein treatment uses targeted and precise laser energy to gently eliminate vascular structures, making it less noticeable over time.

If you wish to clear those unwanted vessels away, eperience the ClearV laser difference at Pymble Dermatology. For appointments, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Different Types of Laser Treatments for Skin and Hair

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Inside a derm clinic are complex-looking machinery with buttons, knobs, and arms. These laser machines may look futuristic, but they have been around for a while and are even becoming increasingly popular for non-surgical skin rejuvenation. They offer effective solutions for a wide range of dermatologic concerns, delivering concentrated beams of light energy to target specific areas of the body.

Recent advances in laser technology have revolutionised their use in treating skin issues and reducing or growing hair. Let’s take a closer look at the top laser treatments, including ClearSilk laser, for different skin and hair issues.

ClearSilk laser treatment

The Most Common Types of Lasers

At present, there are different types of lasers on the market. Only an experienced dermatologist should make the call about which one to use for a specific skin concern. That said, it helps to have an understanding of certain concepts and have an educated conversation with a doctor.

Let’s start with the two main lasers commonly used today: ablative and non-ablative. There are also fractionated lasers, which can be both ablative and non-ablative.

Ablative Lasers

⦁ These are wounding lasers that remove the epidermis (the thin outer layer of skin) and heat the dermis (the underlying skin), stimulating the growth of new collagen.
⦁ As the thin outer layer of skin “wounded” by these lasers heals and regrows, the treated area appears smoother, tighter and more radiant.
⦁ Types of ablative lasers include the carbon dioxide laser, which is more intense than the non-ablative counterpart and requires more downtime.

Non-Ablative Lasers

⦁ Some laser treatments, like ClearSilk laser facial, use lasers that don’t ablate or wound the epidermis.
⦁ They bypass the outer layer of skin and put pockets of heat directly into the dermis, causing a controlled wound. This wound will trigger new collagen contraction and remodelling.
⦁ These lasers have no associated downtime.

Fractionated Lasers

⦁ These lasers can be both ablative and non-ablative.
⦁ They work at both the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin.
⦁ These lasers create very small holes in the deep layers of the skin, stimulating the body’s natural healing process.
⦁ There will be a noticeable growth of healthy new tissue once the skin heals.
⦁ Fractionated laser treatments usually require minimal recovery time, but some patients may notice redness.

What Are These Laser Treatments Used For?

Lasers are powerful tools for a variety of concerns. They can stimulate collagen production, reduce pigmentation, remove hair, or promote hair growth.

Here are the most common laser applications today:

Skin Rejuvenation

Non-surgical and non-invasive treatments like carbon laser peel combine the power of Picosecond and carbon laser to address skin issues like acne scars, clogged pores, uneven tone, and textured skin. ClearSilk treatments are also sought-after non-ablative laser procedures for wrinkles, age lines, and dull skin.

The controlled heat energy from lasers stimulates collagen production, resulting in firmer and smoother skin over time. This makes laser skin rejuvenation a popular choice for those looking to achieve a more youthful and radiant complexion with minimal downtime.

ClearSilk laser Skin Rejuvenation

Birthmarks

Many people are born with a birthmark and are conditioned to cover up these imperfections on their bodies. A birthmark may affect a person’s confidence and can become bothersome to hide

if it’s on an exposed part of the skin. With significant advances in laser technology, the appearance of birthmarks can be dramatically reduced.

Lasers are a safe option for individuals wanting to reduce the appearance of their skin imperfections. Today’s usual lasers target specific pigments in the skin and break them down, gradually lightening the birthmark. With this non-invasive approach, it’s possible to help improve the skin’s overall appearance without surgery or downtime.

Laser treatments are also well-tolerated and customisable to suit the birthmark’s size, colour, and location. Multiple sessions are required for optimal results, but many individuals may notice significant improvement after a few treatments.

Scarring

Scars come in different shapes, types, and sizes. Laser treatments like ClearSilk laser are ideal for acne scarring and light scars. Laser can also be used for dealing with other types of scars, including surgical scars and scars from injuries.

Laser treatments can help reduce the visibility of scars, smooth out uneven skin texture, and promote skin regeneration for a more even complexion. The customisable nature of laser treatments allows for tailored approaches to different types of scars, ensuring optimal results for each individual. Dermatologists utilise different types of lasers, such as fractional or pulsed dye lasers, to target scar tissue and stimulate collagen production, improving skin texture and appearance.

Scarring treatment

Hair Growth

Non-invasive laser treatments, including low-level laser therapy, are effective for individuals experiencing hair loss or thinning hair. These treatments stimulate hair follicles at the cellular level, promote hair growth, increase hair density, and improve overall hair health. The science behind it is simply brilliant: the laser energy increases blood flow to the scalp, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles for optimal growth.

Results may vary, but individuals have reported positive outcomes after a few sessions. This makes laser treatment a popular choice for those seeking to address hair loss.

Hair Removal

While laser treatments can be used for hair growth, they can also be used to achieve the opposite. Laser treatments are becoming the go-to choice for unwanted hair problem. Hair will grow back within a maximum of two weeks, whether the removal method used is shaving, plucking, threading, or waxing.

But with diode laser, you can ensure that unwanted hair does not grow back anytime soon. The science behind this is that the laser emits a single, focused wavelength of light absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle. This generates heat and damages the follicle to prevent hair growth.

Hair Removal treatment

Pymble Dermatology: Your Trusted Partner for Laser Treatments

In the right hands, lasers are powerful tools for dealing with various skin and hair concerns. From fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, acne scars, and uneven skin tone, our laser treatments can be tailored to address individual skin types, issues, and aesthetic goals. Our dermatologists use the latest laser technologies, including HFL, MOXI, ClearV, and ClearSilk laser. Whether it’s a ClearSilk, MOXI, or HFL laser treatment, our tailored approach ensures optimal results for each individual.

Experience the ultimate skin rejuvenation with cutting-edge laser treatments only here at Pymble Dermatology. Make an appointment with our head dermatologist or any of our specialists today.

BBL vs MOXI Laser: Which One Is Right for Me?

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Various types of lasers are available today, such as BBL Hero, MOXI laser, and many others. These laser skin resurfacing treatments are becoming increasingly popular among skincare enthusiasts for effectively addressing a wide range of skin concerns. Depending on which skin concerns you wish to address, these lasers can improve your skin texture and tone.

A leap forward in laser technology, they offer unparalleled results and experiences. Let’s talk further about these laser treatments and the incredible benefits they offer.

skin treatment

Choosing Between BBL Hero vs MOXI

BBL Hero Sciton and Moxi skin treatments are indispensable in skincare innovation, emerging as transformative forces pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Apart from being fully customisable, these treatments offer minimal downtime. Before diving into their other advantages, it’s important to note their differences.
Harnessing the power of broadband light, the BBL Hero possesses a remarkable ability to address pigmentation, sun damage, and many other concerns. It heralds a new era in skin rejuvenation, providing a comprehensive solution to achieving luminous, even-toned skin.

The MOXI treatment, on the other hand, employs a non-ablative fractional laser technique. It primarily focuses on the reduction of fine lines and age spots and the refinement of skin texture.

The specialised approaches of these lasers ensure precision and efficacy when targeting every skincare need.

BBL Hero

⦁ The BBL Hero provides comprehensive treatment. It is a cutting-edge solution for skin concerns like pigmentation, sun damage, age spots, etc.
⦁ It utilises advanced broadband light, ensuring precise and effective skin rejuvenation.
⦁ It is a non-invasive treatment, providing results without surgical procedures.
⦁ It guarantees a comfortable experience with minimal discomfort during and after the treatment.
⦁ BBL Hero sessions are relatively short. This allows for convenient scheduling for patients who lead busy lives.
⦁ It is suitable for various areas. It addresses different skin concerns and can be applied to different parts of the body for comprehensive skin rejuvenation.

bbl hero treatment

MOXI Laser Treatment

⦁ The MOXI treatment is suitable for skin revitalisation as it stimulates collagen production, resulting in a more youthful and radiant complexion.
⦁ It is the solution for fine line reduction, targeting fine lines and wrinkles. It promotes smoother skin texture.
⦁ It reduces the appearance of age spots, making it the ideal choice for those seeking to address hyperpigmentation concerns.
⦁ It is a non-ablative treatment, providing results without damaging the skin’s outer layer.
⦁ The MOXI treatment is also versatile and offers comprehensive skin rejuvenation to various parts of the body.
⦁ It promotes a more balanced and even complexion, enhancing overall skin tone.
⦁ It offers lasting results in skin texture and appearance.

moxi treatment

Various types of lasers are available today, such as BBL Hero, MOXI laser, and many others. These laser skin resurfacing treatments are becoming increasingly popular among skincare enthusiasts for effectively addressing a wide range of skin concerns. Depending on which skin concerns you wish to address, these lasers can improve your skin texture and tone.

A leap forward in laser technology, they offer unparalleled results and experiences. Let’s talk further about these laser treatments and the incredible benefits they offer.

How Do These Laser Treatments Work?

We’ve mentioned that BBL (alternatively known as phototherapy) uses advanced broadband light, hence its name. MOXI skin treatment uses a different approach as it employs a non-ablative laser technique. Both laser technologies rely on light energy wavelengths penetrating deeply beneath the skin’s surface.

These light energy wavelengths trigger a controlled heat response without harming the skin’s top layers. This heat response serves as a catalyst for cell renewal, prompting the production of collagen and elastin. In skin rejuvenation, collagen and elastin are the body’s innate mechanisms for achieving youthful, supple, and healthy skin.

While both BBL and MOXI lasers are game-changing, state-of-the-art technologies, their depth penetration is distinct. BBL Hero employs a versatile spectrum of broadband light and can be tailored through various filtration methods, whereas MOXI treatments delve deeper into the skin.

Both treatments deliver targeted results.

The Wonders of Both Laser Treatments

Powered by non-ablative fractional laser energy, MOXI skin treatments offer a gentle yet effective rejuvenation, stimulating collagen production and refining skin texture. This makes MOXI skin laser an excellent choice for those seeking long-term resilience against aging signs and overall skin improvement.

Harnessing the advanced capabilities of broadband light technology, BBL Hero treatments target specific concerns like pigmentation, sun damage, and fine lines. This makes BBL Hero a popular option for a rejuvenated, youthful complexion.

Both treatments offer tailored solutions for different skincare needs. Whether looking for specific issue resolution or subtle refinement, they provide a holistic approach to achieving radiant skin.

Get Unique, Targeted Results for Different Concerns

Choosing between MOXI and BBL Hero skin treatments depend on individual skin requirements, concerns, and desired results. As with any other treatments, it is advisable to consult with skin doctors before making a final choice.

BBL Hero

This technology emits four times the light energy for much faster and more effective treatment, targeting multiple skin concerns in a single treatment. It is highly effective in improving the following:

⦁ Acne breakouts
⦁ Aging skin
⦁ Broken capillaries
⦁ Freckles
⦁ Redness
⦁ Small facial veins
⦁ Sunspots
⦁ Textural irregularities
⦁ Uneven skin tone
⦁ Vascular lesions

MOXI

This technology is suitable for all skin types as it is non-ablative. It delivers fractionated laser energy at controlled levels, addressing the following skin concerns in 4-5 sessions:

⦁ Dark spots
⦁ Fine lines
⦁ Large pores
⦁ Melasma
⦁ Rough texture
⦁ Uneven skin tone

Wrapping It Up

Laser treatments deliver remarkable results and are faster, less discomforting, and less intrusive than comparable cosmetic treatments. From age, skin concerns, and time of year, many factors can make one option better than the other. It can be helpful to consider the benefits of BBL Hero and MOXI laser treatments when choosing which one is right for you.

While the laser in MOXI treatments penetrates the skin more deeply, you enjoy less downtime and can use it year-round. However, you may need more sessions to reach your desired outcomes. With BBL Hero, you can see more drastic results in fewer treatments.

For best results, you may benefit from a combination of both treatments.

Choose Pymble Dermatology for Cutting-edge Laser Treatments

BBL Hero and MOXI skin treatments are a dynamic duo in the ever-evolving landscape of laser technology, delivering natural-looking results. They work synergistically to promote even-toned, radiant skin.

At Pymble Dermatology, we offer a wide range of services designed for the ultimate skin rejuvenation. Our team of dermatologists can curate personalised treatment plans based on your skin type, concerns, and aesthetic goals. If you’re ready to start your skin rejuvenation journey with BBL and MOXI lasers, book an appointment with us.

Skin Tag Removal in Sydney: What to Expect

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Pymble Dermatology

Skin tags are benign growth of excess skin. They are usually located in the neck, groin, and even the face. Although they are painless and harmless, they can be annoying when you’re wearing your favourite necklace. 

Both men and women are prone to skin tags. However, evidence suggests that they are more common to obese, pregnant women and pre-diabetic individuals.

The tags cause no medical complications, but they are cosmetically displeasing. If you have skin tags, always seek medical advice as there are risks associated with self removal of skin tags ie.  bleeding, infection, pain and incomplete removal of skin tag..

Surgery

The following procedures are available at Pymble Dermatology and our dermatologists will assess you and discuss with you the options:

 

  • Cauterization: A skin tag can be eliminated using electrolysis. In this procedure, an electrode sends a regulated amount of electric current in the tag. This dries out the tissue for the tag falls off.
  • Cryosurgery: A skin tag can be removed using a probe containing liquid nitrogen. This is one of the most effective procedures. The doctor uses low temperatures to freeze the tag. Though effective, this process can irritate the surrounding skin when not done correctly. In this procedure, the skin tags fall off about 10-14 days after the treatment.
  • Excision: The tag is cut out with a scalpel or a special scissors, getting rid of the skin tag immediately. To do this procedure, your doctor will numb the area. 

 

After the removal, skin tags usually won’t return. But another can appear somewhere else on your body.

Bothered About Your Skin Tag 

If your skin tag is bothering you, the first thing to do is to consult a dermatologist. They can check over your skin and give you great advice.  

Need help on your skin? Looking for a great skin tag removal in Sydney? Check out Pymble Dermatology’s website and contact us today.

The Uses of Phototherapy (Narrowband UVB) in Sydney

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Skin diseases are common in Australia, with 16% of Australians going to doctors and hospital consulting for their dermatological concerns and needs. Since this number is not small, it has been a practice to seek out measures to prevent skin diseases from recurring. One common treatment is phototherapy.

Phototherapy, also known as a light treatment, is commonly used to treat a wide range of skin conditions and illnesses, including eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo. If you have these conditions, seeking help from your trusted dermatologist and narrow-band UVB may be one of the treatment options.

Phototherapy has long been used to treat medical conditions dating back as far as 3500 years ago when ancient Egyptians and Indians used sunlight to treat various skin disorders.
With many breakthroughs in modern medicine, phototherapy is now highly regarded as an effective treatment for skin disorders and many different conditions. Since it has been popularized, the use of phototherapy in medical fields grew, and more techniques were developed. Eventually, it received widespread acceptance in the medical community.

SKIN DISORDERS

Eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, itchy skin and other skin conditions can be treated through phototherapy. This treatment involves using UV light – a kind of light present in sunlight- to prevent skin cell inflammation and growth.

A healthy dose of sunlight every day can help ease the symptoms of your skin disorders. But take note, that rays coming directly from the sun can worsen or even up the chances of getting skin cancer. If you really want to bask in the heat of the sun always apply sunscreen with an SPF 50 on areas that don’t need UV light exposure.

A controlled and regulated UV light is more effective than exposing yourself directly to the sunlight. In phototherapy, there are many different techniques and types to aid different kinds of disorders.

There are three types of phototherapies used in treating skin disorders:

  • Broadband UVB: This therapy uses the full spectrum of ultraviolet-B radiation. It is important to note that this treatment is used for dermatitis and psoriasis. Not available at Pymble Dermatology
  • Narrowband UVB: Unlike BBUVB where the full spectrum of ultraviolet B rays are utilized, Narrowband UVB uses a small and dedicated part of UVB radiation. It is more intense and widely used by seasoned dermatologists. At Pymble Dermatology, we offer Narrowband UVB to many patients with psoriasis, vitiligo and eczema and the result is encouraging.
  • PUVA: Psolaren ultraviolet-A (PUVA) combines UVA light with a chemical called psolaren. PUVA cures conditions like vitiligo, cutaneous T cell lymphoma. This treatment is the last resort when all other phototherapy treatments have failed to work as it is the most intense and is said to have many side effects. Not available at Pymble Dermatology

SIDE EFFECTS OF PHOTOTHERAPY

Phototherapy as a treatment for various disorders, it has little to no long-term side effects. If any, phototherapy has several temporary short-term side effects, such as skin redness, itching, folliculitis, blisters, headache, irritability, rashes, and dehydration. These side effects are nonetheless inconsequential to the benefits of the treatment.

CAN YOU HAVE A PHOTOTHERAPY SESSION?

Since we are dealing with UVB and UVA light, it is good to note that you should at least inform your dermatologist or avoid being treated with phototherapy if:

  • You are a nursing mother or pregnant
  • You have lupus with photosensitivity
  • You are on medication which makes you photosensitive
  • You have a history of previous skin cancer

During the consultation, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Discuss all the enquiries you have in mind. Be prepared and never miss your appointments to enjoy the full benefits of phototherapy (2-3 times a week for approximately 20 times)