What should you know about Nd:YAG laser dark spot removal?

Nd:YAG uses a specific light wavelength that can be absorbed by pigment in the skin. The suitable setting depends on the spot's depth, colour, location, skin tone, and whether it is a freckle, sun-related mark, post-inflammatory pigment, or another lesion. Laser is not a substitute for examination: a changing or unusual mark may need a medical assessment instead. Pigment can also return or become more noticeable after ultraviolet exposure or inflammation, and darker skin tones may be more prone to temporary light or dark marks after treatment.

Book an assessment before removing a dark spot, especially if it has recently changed. Tell the clinician about tanning, previous reactions to laser, cold sores, scarring, skin treatments, and medicines that affect light sensitivity. Ask whether a small test area is appropriate. Follow cleansing and aftercare instructions, avoid picking any crust, and use the recommended broad-spectrum sun protection. Redness, tenderness, swelling, or temporary pigment alteration can occur. Other Nd:YAG uses include Laser Hair Removal and Laser Treatment For Nail Fungus, but the settings and goals are different.

Contact the clinic if pain increases, blistering develops, swelling spreads, or the area shows drainage or signs of infection. Arrange medical review for a spot that bleeds, crusts repeatedly, grows, changes shape or colour, or does not match the pattern of nearby marks. Seek urgent care for severe swelling involving the eye or breathing difficulty after a treatment product.

What is the likely diagnosis of this spot? Why is Nd:YAG appropriate for its depth and my skin tone? Could a test patch reduce the chance of pigment change? What should I stop before treatment, and how should I protect the area afterward?