Nd:YAG laser
Nd:YAG Laser: Use in Rosacea Treatment
What is Nd:YAG Laser?
The neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser is a wavelength-specific laser (1064 nm) commonly used in dermatology for treating vascular and pigmented skin lesions. Its long pulse duration and deeper penetration make it especially effective for targeting deep blood vessels.
Application in Rosacea
- Nd:YAG laser targets the vascular component of rosacea by selectively heating and damaging dilated blood vessels causing persistent redness and telangiectasia.
- It is especially effective for deeper facial blood vessels and inflammatory lesions in rosacea subtypes like erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) and papulopustular rosacea (PPR).
Treatment Effectiveness
- Clinical studies demonstrate significant reduction in facial erythema, telangiectasia, flushing, and inflammatory lesions after a series of treatments, usually 1 to 6 sessions.
- Patient satisfaction is high with minimal side effects.
- Compared to pulsed dye laser (PDL), Nd:YAG has comparable efficacy but may cause less treatment-associated pain.
- Safe and effective as a first-line or adjunctive therapy combined with topical or oral antibiotics in certain rosacea subtypes.
Safety and Side Effects
- Well tolerated with minimal adverse effects such as transient redness or swelling.
- Rarely, hypopigmentation or atrophic scarring may occur.
- No purpura, bruising, or blistering typically reported with long-pulsed Nd:YAG when used correctly.
Summary
Nd:YAG laser is a valuable, effective, and safe treatment option for rosacea targeting deep vascular lesions. Its generally low pain profile and good efficacy make it a strong choice, either alone or combined with pharmacologic therapies, especially in erythematotelangiectatic and papulopustular rosacea.
Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!
For personalized laser treatment plans targeting rosacea’s vascular and inflammatory components, consult with our dermatologists specialized in laser therapies.
References:
Mese Say A, Okan G, Gökdemir G. Treatment Outcomes of Long-Pulsed Nd:YAG Laser for Two Different Subtypes of Rosacea. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2024 Dec;17(12):16-20. Available at: https://jcadonline.com/treatment-outcomes-of-long-pulsed-ndyag-laser-for-two-different-subtypes-of-rosacea/
