The water absorption coefficient is the defining performance metric for 1320nm Nd:YAG laser systems. Because this specific wavelength exhibits a strong affinity for water, it dictates exactly where and how thermal energy is deposited within the skin tissue. This high absorption allows the laser to convert light into heat efficiently within the dermis, bypassing other competing targets like pigment or blood vessels.
The specific water absorption profile of the 1320nm wavelength acts as a "depth lock," concentrating thermal energy 200 to 300 micrometers below the surface to remodel collagen without burning the outer skin.
The Mechanics of Water-Selective Absorption
Bypassing Surface Targets
The 1320nm wavelength is unique because it is strongly absorbed by water but has a minimal effect on melanin (pigment) or hemoglobin (blood).
This optical window allows the laser energy to pass through the epidermis, which contains melanin, with relatively little interference or surface heating.
Precision Depth Control
The coefficient of water absorption for this wavelength results in a specific penetration depth.
The energy does not travel indefinitely; it is absorbed and converted to heat at a depth of roughly 200 to 300 micrometers.
This placement is critical because it sits squarely within the dermis, the structural layer of the skin responsible for elasticity and strength.
Clinical Performance and Tissue Interaction
Triggering the Healing Response
Once the energy is absorbed by the water in the dermis, it generates a controlled thermal injury.
This heat causes collagen denaturation, a process where collagen fibers contract and break down slightly.
This controlled damage immediately triggers the body's natural healing response, stimulating the production of new, healthy collagen over time.
Preserving the Epidermis
The performance of the 1320nm system is defined by its ability to heat the "inside" without damaging the "outside."
Because the water absorption concentrates heat deep in the dermis, the epidermal surface remains uncompromised.
This results in a non-ablative treatment where the structural improvement happens beneath the skin without creating an open wound.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Ineffectiveness for Pigment Removal
While the lack of melanin absorption is a safety feature for the skin surface, it limits the system's versatility.
This system is not effective for treating sunspots, tattoos, or hair, as it cannot target the pigment required to destroy those structures.
Reliance on Tissue Hydration
Since water is the chromophore (target), the efficacy of the treatment relies heavily on the water content of the dermis.
Variations in skin hydration could theoretically alter the absorption profile and the resulting thermal distribution.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
The 1320nm Nd:YAG is a specialized tool optimized for structural skin improvement rather than surface correction.
- If your primary focus is Skin Rejuvenation: This system is ideal, as it utilizes water absorption to stimulate deep collagen remodeling with minimal downtime.
- If your primary focus is Pigmentation or Vascular Issues: This system is likely unsuitable, as it bypasses the melanin and hemoglobin targets necessary for those treatments.
By leveraging the water absorption coefficient, the 1320nm laser provides a method to rebuild skin structure from the inside out while sparing the surface.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Performance Impact of 1320nm Wavelength |
|---|---|
| Primary Target | Water (minimizes interaction with melanin/hemoglobin) |
| Penetration Depth | 200 - 300 micrometers (concentrated in the dermis) |
| Thermal Effect | Controlled collagen denaturation and healing response |
| Surface Safety | Non-ablative; preserves the epidermis for zero downtime |
| Best Application | Skin tightening, wrinkle reduction, and structural remodeling |
| Limitations | Not effective for pigment removal or vascular lesions |
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References
- Rhoda S. Narins, David J. Narins. Nonablative skin resurfacing. DOI: 10.1016/j.asj.2004.02.003
This article is also based on technical information from Belislaser Knowledge Base .
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