Alma Q

The Alma Q is a flash lamp pumped Nd:YAG laser with Q-switched output at 1064 nm and 532 nm and a long pulse mode at 1064 nm. The 532 nm beam is produced inside the console by frequency conversion through a KTP crystal. FDA cleared the system under 510(k) K170850 on June 15, 2017. Energy travels through an articulated arm to interchangeable tips.

Each mode has its own set of cleared uses. In Q-switched 1064 nm mode the clearance covers tattoo removal for dark and blue inks, benign dermal pigmented lesions, skin resurfacing and removal or lightening of unwanted hair. Q-switched 532 nm is cleared for red, blue and green tattoo inks, benign vascular and pigmented lesions, and soft tissue procedures in dermatology. The long pulse 1064 nm mode is cleared for benign vascular lesions, wrinkles, hair removal and pseudofolliculitis barbae on skin types I to VI. The 510(k) gives a Q-switched pulse width of 7 ns, spot sizes of 3 to 7 mm at 1064 nm and 2 to 7 mm at 532 nm, and long pulse durations of 0.5 to 60 ms with 3, 5, 7 and 8 mm spots.

Alma's product page names four applicators: Focus, with several spot sizes for Q-switched and quasi long pulse work, Homogenius, which produces a flat-top square spot of 3x3 or 5x5 mm, Collimated, with an 8 mm beam that does not need skin contact, and Pixel, which delivers a 7x7 non-ablative pattern at five depths. Single and double pulse modes are available at both Q-switched wavelengths.

A dealer reviewing an Alma Q will ask about the flash lamp: the shot count, the date of the last lamp change, and service records covering both Q-switched wavelengths. Say which of the four applicators you have, check that the articulated arm moves freely without damage, and photograph the serial label and the powered-on screen.