How are the alexandrite lasers used?

The Q-switched alexandrite laser is effective in removing green and black tattoo pigment. This laser has also been used to remove brown macules. The long-pulsed alexandrite laser is the gold standard for laser hair removal.

Dark hair in Fitzpatrick types I to IV skin is very effectively removed. The long-pulsed laser has been reported to effectively remove leg veins that are 1 to 2 mm in diameter and blue in color. This laser has recently also been reported to effectively treat brown lentigines on the face and hands (Table 54-7).

Alster TS: Q-switched alexandrite laser treatment (755 nm) of professional and amateur tattoos, J Am Acad Dermatol 33:69–73, 1995.

Ash K, Lord J, McDaniel DH, et al: Hair removal using a long-pulsed alexandrite laser, Dermatol Clin 17:387–399, 1999.