What should you know about Nd:YAG laser for skin?

Nd:YAG laser uses a 1064-nanometre wavelength that can reach deeper tissue than some other laser wavelengths. Depending on the device and settings, it may heat pigment, blood vessels, hair follicles, or deeper skin structures. The same platform can therefore be used for different goals, with different preparation and aftercare.

Treatment may cause temporary warmth, redness, swelling, or colour change. The risk and recovery pattern depend on the target, energy settings, treatment area, and your natural pigmentation. A diagnosis is needed before choosing a laser.

Tell the clinician about recent sun exposure or tanning, active eczema or infection, cold sores, medicines that increase light sensitivity, and any history of dark marks after irritation. Bring details of previous procedures and explain whether your priority is hair, vessels, pigment, texture, or another concern.

Follow instructions about shaving, skincare products, sun avoidance, and cooling. After treatment, protect the area from sunlight, use only recommended products, and avoid picking or aggressive exfoliation while the skin settles.

Contact the provider if redness, swelling, pain, blistering, crusting, or pigment change is becoming more intense or spreading. Seek urgent care for eye symptoms, severe burns, facial swelling affecting breathing, or signs of infection such as increasing warmth, pus, or fever.

Ask what diagnosis is being treated, why Nd:YAG is suitable, how your skin tone affects the plan, what preparation is needed, and how many visits may be considered. Ask about alternatives, expected recovery, pigment changes, and the warning signs that require review.