How The Laser Breaks Down Ink
Removery uses the PicoWay laserthe gold standard for laser removalto remove tattoos. This laser has a photoacoustic effect that gently targets the ink using sound energy rather than heat. Its incredibly short pulses last for one trillionth of a second, making the process of tattoo removal extremely gentle compared to any other type of removal treatment.
I Want To Get My Tattoo Removed Now Why Will I Need More Than 1 Laser Treatment Session
When you get a tattoo, the tattoo artist layers the ink. A laser cannot safely break down all the layers in 1 treatment session.
Time between treatments is also necessary for your health. Your skin needs time to heal. After laser tattoo removal, you may see some redness, swelling, and a little blistering.
Your body also needs time to flush out the ink. Yes, your body rather than the laser eliminates the ink. When the lasers light hits the ink, the light shatters the ink into tiny particles. Your body must flush out these tiny particles.
After each treatment, your tattoo should lighten.
Where Do I Start
Once youve decided that using laser treatment to remove your unwanted tattoo is the right move for you, where do you go from there? Its important to find a trustworthy, experienced partner who can make your treatments go as smoothly and effectively as possible.
Go With the Pros
When youre getting a tattoo removed, you want it done right. After all, the whole point is to make it appear as if the tattoo were never there in the first place. Thats why youll want to go with proven professionals who have the training, experience, and passion to do the best job possible for you.
At Bentley Skincare & Wellness, our staff includes a doctor and multiple licensed estheticians and laser technicians. In addition to years of training and experience specifically in the area of skincare, our dedicated and passionate staff also bring a host of other valuable professional and life experience to their practice, resulting in a unique and multifaceted approach to their work.
How to Prepare
Other than a commitment to do what it takes to get rid of that pesky tattoo once and for all, there is not much that you need to do to prepare for a laser treatment to remove your tattoo. Because it is a safe, relatively noninvasive technique that targets the ink particles and ignores your skin, you might find the experience of removing your tattoo to be a much more pleasant experience than getting it was.
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What Do I Do If I Get Blisters After My Laser Treatment
It is possible that you may experience some blistering after your laser treatment. Do not be alarmed by this. This bodily reaction is a normal part of the healing process and often occurs on very large tattoos or on areas of low circulation, such as fingers and ankles. Blisters are readily treatable and with the right aftercare, will heal perfectly and leave the skin intact.
In the event that blisters form:
- Do not puncture them. Continue to apply ice to them for up to 48 hours after treatment. This will reduce and help to prevent any associated discomfort, and in some cases, will enable them to subside completely.
- If the blisters pop , apply an antibacterial ointment or liquid several times a day and cover them with a dressing or bandage. Continue this care until at least 48 hours after the blisters have burst.
If there is any crusting, scabbing or oozing from the blisters:
- Do not pick at them or allow the skin to become scraped, as this may result in infection and scarring. Avoid shaving the area until it is completely healed.
- Apply an antibacterial ointment or liquid several times a day and cover it with a dressing or bandage.
- Repeat this each day until any crusting, scabbing or oozing is gone.
It is very rare but possible that your tattoo may become infected following blisters. In the rare event that the tattoo looks infected: , contact us immediately or visit your local doctor or medical centre.
Does Skin Go Back To Normal After Laser Tattoo Removal
Yes. Your skin should go back to normal following laser tattoo removal. We can remove most tattoos completely, and following aftercare instructions will help your skin heal and return to a healthy and ink-free state.
Most clients require 4 8 treatments to remove a tattoo, depending on your skin complexion and the size and colouring of the tattoo.
Its important to note that any existing scarring caused when the tattoo was initially applied may become more noticeable as the tattoo ink is removed. The laser technology does not cause scarring, but it can reveal scars covered up by the tattoo ink.
During your free consultation at b clinic, your clinician will examine your tattoo and discuss any existing scarring that could be revealed once the tattoo is removed.
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What Should You Do After Treatment
After your treatment, you may find that your skin is somewhat sensitive. You may have prescription antibiotics to encourage better healing. You may be instructed to use a simple moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin after your treatment. Likewise, you need to continue avoiding direct contact with the sun for at least two to four weeks to protect your skin.
Immediately after your treatment, you will need to avoid hot water, steam, chlorine, saunas, and harsh skin cleansers or exfoliants for at least 48 to 72 hours. Its also encouraged to drink plenty of water to help your skin recover more quickly from the treatment.
Are There Any Promising New Methods On The Horizon
In 2020, the FDA approved a new device that uses rapid pulses of acoustic shock waves to remove tattoos. It will be used as an accessory to laser surgery.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
The old saying think before you ink remains good advice for anyone considering getting a tattoo because body art is more permanent than perhaps you might realize at first. But modern laser surgery methods, when overseen by qualified medical professionals, are safer and better than previous alternatives.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 09/25/2020.
References
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What Advancements Have There Been In Laser Tattoo Removal
The science of laser tattoo removal has advanced beyond differing wavelengths to target multiple colors, Dr. Anolik says. Already, dermatologists are starting to use picosecond lasers to deliver laser energy within a shorter pulse duration typical Q-switched lasers deliver energy within a nanosecond, but the picosecond option can create finer pigment particles.
The integration of fractional resurfacing lasers on occasion can release pigment from the skin surface. And the addition of acoustic wave therapies can act as a complement to laser therapy with sound waves helping lead to intense tattoo pigment vibration and greater breakdown and release of the pigment during a laser tattoo removal session, Dr. Anolik says.
Dermatologists are now using the topical solution perfluorodecalin in certain situations, which helps wash away some of the water vapor gas that develops immediately after laser treatment. Once this gas is reduced by the topically placed PFD, Dr. Anolik says, we can retreat at the same visit, possibly eliminating more pigment at one visit.
What Are Some Of The Qualifications That One Needs To Have To Become A Laser Tattoo Removal Technician
Well, you may be interested to know that it would take you only 2 weeks to become a laser tattoo removal expert.
When you enroll in most of the colleges that offer this training, it will only take you a short time to be qualified and certified. Many of the tattoo removal service providers are adequately trained. You will be happy to note that majority of them offer the best laser tattoo removal services in your country.
The advantages of using trained laser tattoo removal a technician is that you will assure your clients of safety and the best quality services.
Deanna PaiNov 24, 2021
Have you reached the regret phase of a years-old tattooor just want to fade your tattoo enough to cover it up? Whatevers led you to laser tattoo removal, theres good news: technology has come a long way. With this guide inspired by the most common questions the RealSelf community has about laser tattoo removal, you can understand the process accordingly. Here, 10 tips and things to know from New York City board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, to help you prepare.
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Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt
Having a tattoo removed can be quite painful, often more so than getting a tattoo in the first place. The lasers heat the ink particles to thousands of degrees to break them down, but it happens so rapidly and in a concentrated area that the energy instead collapses into a shockwave.
This shockwave vibrates through the skin and causes the upper layer of skin to lift up and appear white, or to frost. Though temporarily painful, this effect usually lasts just a few seconds.
There are ways to manage the pain of laser tattoo removal. At EradiTatt, we do not offer local anesthesia or topical numbing creams . We instead opt for a cool air system, the Cryo 6 Cool Air Device. This system helps to minimize pain with a stream of 30°C cold air. Cooling air also helps minimize thermal damage and work toward a smooth healing process.
As the tattoo site heals, you might experience some swelling, tenderness, and minor pain, similar to a sunburn. Proper laser tattoo removal aftercare can reduce discomfort.
Whats The Difference Between Pico And Nanolaser Technology
Pico and nanolaser technology are two different types of tools for removing tattoos. Pico lasers are a more recent evolution.
The main difference between pico technology and nanotechnology is the duration of the pulse within the skin. In nano, which is a little bit of older technology, it just sits there for a little bit longer, Carmen explains. A pico goes in and out more quickly. This more effectively breaks the ink particles down into tinier pieces while causing minimal impact to the skin.If its smaller, your body has an easier time absorbing and carrying it away, Carmen continues.
Why is a pico laser gentler on the skin? A pico laser is not a heat-based laser, whereas a nanolaser is a heat-based laser, says Carmen. Any sort of feeling that you get from a pico laser is more of friction as opposed to heat. So most of our clients say that a pico treatment is less uncomfortable than a nano. Learn more about laser tattoo removal machines in this guide.
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How Quickly Will You See Results
You generally can see early results from your laser tattoo removal treatments about four to eight weeks after your first appointment. Its important to remember that the results of this treatment are gradual, and it takes some time for your immune system to eliminate scattered pigment. To fully remove a tattoo, the process can take six to 12 months for longer.
Targeting The Tattoo Ink
Tattoos come in every color imaginable. And, just like all other objects around us, different colors of tattoos absorb and reflect different wavelengths of light at different rates. For example, a red tattoo looks red because it absorbs green light and reflects the red light .
Because the goal of laser tattoo removal is to have the tattoo ink absorb the laser light, you want to make sure that the wavelength you use is well-absorbed by the tattoo. Returning to the example of the red tattoo, the red ink should be treated with green laser light, as it absorbs the green light . Since the 532 nm wavelength of laser light visibly looks green, it is the ideal wavelength to use for treating a red tattoo.
When treating multicolored tattoos, it is important to have access to a variety of laser wavelengths for treatment versatility. The most common wavelengths used for laser tattoo removal are 1064 nm and 532 nm they can treat 95%+ of tattoos. Additional wavelengths that some practitioners use are 755 nm and 694 nm these wavelengths function very similarly and are useful for treating rare ink colors, such as bright blue or green.
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Lather Up On The Sunscreen Prior To Your Sessions
Once you know you’re unhappy with a tattoo on your body, immediately start using a zinc oxide sunscreen on it, says Cirlin. The most common reason people can’t get lasered is because their tattoo has had sun exposure. By using a zinc oxide anytime you’re outside, you’ll help protect your tattoo, which will allow you to get lasered regardless of the season.
How Long Does It Take For A Tattoo Removal To Heal
The total healing time after laser treatment is about 4 to 8 weeks. But, what you do during those weeks can increase or decrease the healing process.
Healing times vary depending on the type of treatment, the strength of your immune system, and how closely you follow your aftercare plan.
Your post treatment efforts are as important a part of the process as the laser itself.
Just by staying hydrated and keeping your immune system healthy, for example, you can speed up the process by several weeks.
And by protecting your wound, youll avoid opening the scab, which helps it heal without interruption.
Ready to get started?
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Types Of Lasers: The Ink Colors They Treat & Their Side Effects
Today, laser tattoo removal specialists use three different types of Q-switched lasers, and each are more useful than the other in removing certain ink colors. Because heat is produced by these lasers and the skin’s layers are penetrated at various depths, there are some side effects to consider. And despite the picosecond laser revolutionizing the art of tattoo removal when it was introduced in 2013, it too comes with side effects and breaks up some ink pigments better than others.
Q-switched Ruby laser:The light wavelength of 694nm makes this useful for removing blue, black and green pigments.
- Side effects: scarring, change in the skin’s texture, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation
Q-switched Nd:YAG laser: This laser can operate alone at a wavelength of 1064nm , or with a frequency-doubling crystal to shorten the wavelength to 532nm .
- Side effects: According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, hyperpigmentation and textural changes are potential side effects, but they are infrequent, and the incidence of hypopigmentation is a lot lower than with the ruby laser.
Q-switched Alexandrite laser: This laser operates at a wavelength of 755nm, which resides between those of the ruby and neodymium: YAG lasers. It is excellent for the removal of green, blue and black tattoos.
- Side effects: textural changes and transient hypopigmentation
An Overview Of Laser Tattoo Removal
With laser tattoo removal, a technician targets the affected area with a high-intensity laser beam. The beam penetrates to the pigmented skin cells in the dermis and breaks up the ink thats trapped there. Tattoo removal begins with the deepest skin cells during the first treatment. After a few sessions, the tattoo will start to fade until its finally gone. Because the first treatment targets the deepest ink, its not uncommon for the tattoo to get darker at first. It is part of the process. Laser tattoo removal may cause some potential blistering post-treatment from the laser evaporates the ink particles and the process releases heat. These mild blisters are like a sunburn, and you can treat them similarly.
The process is relatively painless, but some people feel mild discomfort during the session. Many liken it to a rubber band snapping against the skin. In any event, its generally less painful than getting the tattoo was. At Body Details True Laser® Centers, we numb the treatment area with an icepack and use the Zimmer cryogenic device to keep the skin cool during the process. This cools the air around the skin to -32 degrees Celcius so it remains numb. You may also be prescribed a numbing cream if you deem the treatments too uncomfortable based on your individual pain tolerance.
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Cost Of Other Removal Methods
Dermabrasion tattoo removal cost ranges from several hundred up to thousands of dollars, depending on the size, placement, age and color of your tattoo.
Surgical excision, which is only practical for small tattoos, ranges from around $500 to the thousands, depending on the same factors.
To find out which method will be most cost-effective for you, consider consulting a plastic surgeon who offers multiple tattoo removal methods.
Getting Your Tattoo Removed With Removery
Removerys specialization in laser tattoo removal has given us a level of expertise matched by none. Through intensive focus, Carmen and our team have modeled how tattoo removal should be done. And our commitment to using cutting-edge laser tattoo removal technologies has never wavered. We look forward to many more years of shaping the future of this field! Watch the remaining Laser Tattoo Removal 101 series on YouTube and read the 101: part 1 blog to learn more.
Considering removing an unwanted tattoo? One of our experienced technicians will be thrilled to answer all your questions. Book a free consultation with us to start the conversation!
Connect with us to start your removal journey
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How Does The New Piqo4 Laser Work For Tattoo Removal
The PiQo4 laser delivers energy in exceptionally fast nano and picosecond pulses. Studies have shown that the best way to clear pigment in tattoos is to first use short bursts of energy in the nanosecond range. This breaks up large rocks of pigment into smaller pebbles. Then, subsequent laser passes utilize even faster picosecond pulses to break these pebbles into sand. What does this mean for your tattoo? Faster clearance in as few as 2 treatments! Most other tattoo lasers have just nano or pico second capabilities alone, which are simply less effective than the combination.