Treatment Overview
The Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser is a versatile laser system used in Korean dermatology for treating pigmentation, vascular lesions, hair removal, and selective tattoo removal. It operates at two key wavelengths — 1064 nm and 532 nm — which target different pigments in the skin.
While Q-Switched and Pico Lasers are considered the gold standards for tattoo removal, Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Lasers can be used in specific tattoo removal cases, especially for dark ink tattoos (black, blue) or when vascular support treatment is needed. In Korea, dermatologists often use Long-Pulsed Nd:YAG as a supportive laser in multi-step tattoo removal programs, improving outcomes alongside Pico or Q-Switched treatments.
It belongs to the Skin Concerns: Tattoo Removal / Pigmentation / Vascular family (Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed, Q-Switched Nd:YAG, Pico Lasers, Ruby Laser, Alexandrite Laser):
- Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed: Best for dark ink tattoos + supportive vascular clearing.
- Q-Switched Nd:YAG: Best for black/blue tattoos + melasma.
- Pico Lasers (PicoSure / Discovery / Enlighten): Best for multi-colored tattoos + faster clearance.
- Ruby Laser: Best for green and blue pigments.
- Alexandrite Laser: Best for light inks + pigmented lesions.
Purpose & Benefits
- Dark Ink Tattoo Removal: Effective for black, dark blue, and deep pigments.
- Dual Wavelengths:
- 1064 nm: Targets dark, deep inks.
- 532 nm: Used for red or superficial inks.
- Supportive Role: Often used in combination with Pico or Q-Switched lasers.
- Skin Safety: Low risk of scarring when performed by Korean dermatologists.
- Multi-Use: Also treats vascular lesions, hair reduction, and pigmentation issues.
Ideal Candidates
Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Tattoo Removal in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with dark tattoos (black, blue, dark brown).
- Individuals needing supportive treatment alongside Pico/Q-Switched removal.
- Adults seeking tattoo fading with minimal downtime.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed: Best for dark inks + vascular component tattoos.
- Q-Switched Nd:YAG: Best for black/blue tattoos + melasma.
- Pico Lasers: Best for multi-colored tattoos + resistant inks.
- Ruby Laser: Best for green/blue pigments.
- Alexandrite Laser: Best for lighter inks + freckles.
Possible Risks & Complications
Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed is generally safe, but temporary side effects may include:
- Redness & Swelling: Usually lasts 1–3 days.
- Whitening (“Frosting” effect): Temporary pigment reaction.
- Crusting or Flaking: As tattoo pigment fragments rise and shed.
- Rare Risks: Blistering, hyperpigmentation, or hypopigmentation (rare with expert care).
Surgical Techniques Used
Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Tattoo Removal works via selective photothermolysis:
- 1064 nm Long-Pulsed: Targets dark inks at deeper skin layers.
- 532 nm Long-Pulsed: Used for superficial red and orange inks.
- Gradual Clearance: Less aggressive than Pico/Q-Switched, but effective in a combination protocol.
- Protocol: 6–10 sessions spaced 6–8 weeks apart, depending on tattoo size and color.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Whitening/frosting, mild redness.
- 1–3 Days: Temporary swelling, scabbing, or flaking.
- 1–2 Weeks: Skin heals while tattoo fades progressively.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply antibiotic or healing ointment as prescribed.
- Do not scratch or pick at treated areas.
- Apply SPF 50+ on treated zones daily.
- Avoid pools, hot tubs, and saunas until healing completes.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Visible fading of darker tattoo pigments.
- Short-Term (2–4 Sessions): Noticeable lightening of black/blue inks.
- Medium-Term (5–7 Sessions): Significant tattoo clearance.
- Long-Term: Resistant pigments may require additional Pico or Q-Switched treatments.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Tattoo Analysis – Doctor evaluates tattoo ink colors, size, and depth.
- Preparation – Cleansing and topical numbing cream applied.
- Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Session – Laser pulses applied to tattoo ink zones.
- Post-Care: Cooling, ointment, and protective dressing.
- Follow-Up: Multi-session plan until tattoo clearance is achieved.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea specializes in multi-step tattoo removal, often combining Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed with Pico or Q-Switched lasers.
- Clinics use FDA/KFDA-approved long-pulse Nd:YAG devices.
- Dermatologists adapt protocols for Asian skin types to minimize risks.
- More cost-effective compared to Western tattoo removal programs.
- Seoul offers signature “Combination Tattoo Removal” packages (Long-Pulsed + Pico).
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Tattoo Removal in Korea:
- Small Tattoo (per session): USD 80 – 150
- Medium Tattoo (per session): USD 150 – 300
- Large Tattoo (per session): USD 300 – 600
- Package (6–10 sessions): USD 900 – 3,500 depending on tattoo size & colors
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Healing serums, Exosomes, PN boosters): USD 100 – 400
💡 Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser in Korea is often used as a “dark ink and vascular booster” in tattoo removal, improving clearance for stubborn black/blue pigments when combined with Pico or Q-Switched lasers.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Long-Pulsed Nd:YAG + Pico for tattoo removal.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Specializes in combination tattoo clearance.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed for dark tattoos + vascular pigment.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Long-Pulsed + Q-Switched for deep inks.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium tattoo removal with regenerative care add-ons.
