Knowledge What is the function of the 1064 nm Q-switched nanosecond laser? Deep Dermal Pigment Destruction Explained
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Tech Team · Belislaser

Updated 2 days ago

What is the function of the 1064 nm Q-switched nanosecond laser? Deep Dermal Pigment Destruction Explained


The primary function of the 1064 nm Q-switched nanosecond laser in the initial phase of dark eyebrow tattoo removal is to act as a deep-penetrating "bunker buster" for dense pigment. This specific wavelength bypasses the skin’s surface to target and shatter black, blue, and gray ink particles located deep within the dermis without damaging the upper layers of the skin.

Core Insight: The 1064 nm laser does not rely on heat to "burn" the ink away; instead, it uses the photoacoustic effect to mechanically pulverize high-density pigment into microscopic dust, allowing the body’s immune system to flush it out safely.

The Mechanics of Pigment Destruction

Selective Absorption

The 1064 nm wavelength is specifically chosen because it is highly absorbed by dark pigments like black and deep blue.

This selectivity allows the laser energy to ignore the normal skin tissue and focus almost entirely on the foreign ink particles.

The Photoacoustic Effect

Unlike continuous lasers that burn tissue, Q-switched lasers release high energy in nanosecond intervals.

This rapid delivery creates a powerful shockwave—known as the photoacoustic effect—that mechanically shatters the pigment particles into tiny fragments.

Biological Clearance

Once the ink is shattered into microscopic, dust-like debris, it becomes small enough for the body's internal systems to handle.

Macrophages (immune cells) absorb these fragments, and they are subsequently metabolized and removed via the lymphatic system.

Why It Is Critical for the "Initial Phase"

Deep Dermal Penetration

Longer wavelengths penetrate deeper into the skin.

The 1064 nm laser is capable of reaching the deep dermis where the "base" of the tattoo ink resides, making it essential for the first pass of removal.

Processing High-Density Bases

Initial removal requires breaking down the heavy, dense concentration of ink.

By effectively processing these high-density dark bases first, this laser establishes a clean foundation for any subsequent, finer removal steps.

Safety and Skin Preservation

Bypassing Epidermal Melanin

A critical advantage of the 1064 nm wavelength is its relatively low absorption rate by epidermal melanin (the natural pigment in your skin).

This allows the laser to pass through the surface of the skin without causing burns or pigmentary changes, such as hypopigmentation (white spots) or hyperpigmentation (dark spots).

Suitability for Darker Skin Tones

Because it avoids surface melanin, this wavelength is particularly safe and effective for patients with darker skin tones or Asian skin.

It minimizes the risk of post-inflammatory side effects that are common with shorter wavelengths.

Understanding the Trade-offs

Color Limitation

While the 1064 nm laser is the gold standard for black, blue, and gray inks, it is generally ineffective on lighter colors.

Red, orange, or yellow pigments usually require different wavelengths (such as 532 nm) for effective removal.

The Need for Multiple Sessions

The "shattering" process is not instantaneous removal.

Because the body takes time to metabolize the ink fragments, and because the laser targets layer by layer, complete removal requires multiple sessions spaced out to allow for healing and lymphatic clearance.

Making the Right Choice for Your Goal

  • If your primary focus is safety on darker skin: Rely on the 1064 nm wavelength to target the tattoo while bypassing the natural melanin in the epidermis to prevent scarring.
  • If your primary focus is removing dense black eyebrows: Utilize this laser as the mandatory first step to break up the deep, high-density pigment clusters before worrying about fine detailing.

The 1064 nm Q-switched laser is the safe, deep-reaching sledgehammer required to break the foundation of dark tattoos before the body sweeps away the debris.

Summary Table:

Feature 1064 nm Q-switched Nanosecond Laser
Primary Mechanism Photoacoustic Effect (Mechanical Shattering)
Target Pigments Black, Deep Blue, and Gray Ink
Penetration Depth Deep Dermis (High Penetration)
Skin Safety Low absorption by epidermal melanin; safe for darker skin tones
Core Function Breaking down high-density pigment bases in the initial phase
Clearance Path Lymphatic system via macrophage absorption

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Provide your clients with the safest and most effective results for dark pigment removal. BELIS specializes in professional-grade medical aesthetic equipment, including advanced Nd:YAG and Pico laser systems designed specifically for high-density ink processing and skin preservation.

Whether you are looking to upgrade your clinic with specialized laser technology, HIFU, or Microneedle RF, our portfolio offers the precision your premium salon needs. Partner with us to bring cutting-edge body sculpting and skincare solutions to your practice.

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References

  1. Weronika Pióro, Anna Kasielska‐Trojan. Permanent Makeup Removal Severe Complication—Case Report and Proposal of the Protocol for Its Management. DOI: 10.3390/jcm13185613

This article is also based on technical information from Belislaser Knowledge Base .

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