Nd:YAG is the name of the medium that produces the laser light; by itself, it does not indicate which skin concern will be treated or which settings will be used. It is therefore incorrect to say that the Nd:YAG laser is used in the same way for every pigmented lesion, vessel or acne concern.
Why are 1064 nm, 532 nm and pulse duration different things?
The fundamental wavelength of Nd:YAG is 1064 nm. In some systems, this light can be converted to 532 nm through a separate mechanism; not every device has this feature. Long-pulsed and very-short-pulsed Q-switched modes are also selected for different targets. Treating wavelength and pulse duration as interchangeable misrepresents the procedure. DermNet's explanation of Nd:YAG summarises this distinction.
Which concerns require assessment?
A fine facial vessel, diffuse redness and a brown pigmented lesion are not the same diagnosis. A method is not selected before assessing vessel diameter and depth, the cause of the pigmentation, skin tone and sun-exposure history. In particular, a new or changing dark lesion should not be treated with laser based on appearance alone. You can read about the approach to visible fine vessels on the Nd:YAG laser treatment page.
It would not be appropriate to present this laser as a routine, definitive solution for active acne, excessive oil production, excessive sweating or fungal nail infection. Each has a separate diagnosis and first-line options, and the relevant indication for the device being used must be verified separately.
How many sessions are needed, and can the procedure be felt?
There is no rule of “once a month for 3–6 sessions” that applies to everyone. The type of target, mode used, skin characteristics and response affect the plan. A stinging sensation or heat may be felt during treatment; the possibility of pain, redness and discoloration varies according to the method. Eye protection and post-procedure advice should be explained with reference to the actual protocol selected.