Comparison of the Q-switched ND: YAG and ruby lasers in treating semi-permanent make up

Abstract

Background: Lasers based on the principle of selective photothermolysis are now being used to remove semi-permanent make up with various outcomes. Choosing the right laser for the specific semi-make up color is necessary for successful outcome. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and Q- switched Ruby laser irradiation on black color semi- permanent make up on rat skin. And, in order to set a guideline for the black color semi-permanent make. Methods: Six black artificial tattoos on rat skin were treated with two kinds of Q-switched lasers: a Medlite II Biomedical Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (1064nm, 20 nanoseconds, 2.0mm spot size, 6J/cm2) and Melastar Q-switched Ruby laser (694nm, 40 nanoseconds, 2.5mm spot size, 8-10 J/cm2). The authors used each lasers to irradiate pair of artificial tattoos on the same day of semi-permanent make up, 3 days after, 5 days after, 1 week after, 3 weeks after and 5 weeks after. Each artificial tattoos were irradiated 6 times. Then, checked the pigment level of laser irradiated sites with Mexameter® Pigmentation probe. And obtained the sample of tissue after 6 times irradiation. Results: Overall, the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser had a significant difference in semi-permanent make up lightening compared to the Q-switched ruby laser according to RMI and histopathological result. Conclusion: The Q-switched Nd:YAG laser was slightly superior to the Q-switched ruby laser on removing black semi-permanent make up.