Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

Which type of laser is particularly effective for tattoo removal?

1. Nd:YAG laser

2. CO2 laser

3. Argon laser

4. Pulsed dye laser

The correct answer is: Nd:YAG laser

The Nd:YAG laser is particularly effective for tattoo removal due to its specific wavelength and ability to penetrate deeper layers of the skin. This laser operates at a wavelength of 1064 nm, which allows it to target the ink particles in tattoos effectively without causing significant damage to the surrounding tissue. The laser energy is absorbed by the darker pigments in the tattoo ink, breaking them down into smaller particles that the body can then naturally eliminate through the lymphatic system. Additionally, Nd:YAG lasers can be adjusted to effectively remove a range of ink colors, especially darker inks like black, blue, and green. This versatility is key in providing effective tattoo removal treatments. Because this laser can also be used safely on various skin types, it has become a standard choice in dermatological and cosmetic practices for tattoo removal. Although other types of lasers, such as CO2 and pulsed dye lasers, may have applications in different skin treatments or conditions, they are not as effective as Nd:YAG for tattoo removal specifically. CO2 lasers are more suited for skin resurfacing and vascular lesions, while pulsed dye lasers primarily target blood vessels and are not designed for the same range of tattoo pigment.