Tattoos are now commonplace- 40% of the US population has a tattoo. But many are not happy with them, as they change when we age (along with our taste in tattoos!). Fortunately, many tattoos can be lightened or completely removed with new laser technology.
The best lasers for tattoo removal will fire at the highest speeds: nanosecond lasers fire at one one-billionth of a second, whereas picosecond lasers fire at an astonishing one one-trillionth of a second. Since the faster firing lasers produce less heat in the tissue, we prefer picolasers, specifically the PicoSure Pro, arguably the best tattoo removal laser on the market.
What Is PicoSure® Pro?
Picosure Pro is the only picolaser that delivers laser energy at 532nm, 755 nm and 1064 nm, enabling treatment of all colors. Each burst is nearly instantaneous and breaks down targeted ink without harming surrounding tissues. The best part of this device is that it can treat every skin tone. Little to no downtime is needed after a session, and results are nearly spotless.
How Does Tattoo Removal Work?
So, how does tattoo removal work? Simply put, the laser energy is fired into the skin and absorbed by the pigment molecules, which shatter into smaller pieces. Each time the laser hits the pigment, it breaks into smaller pieces until it is small enough to be absorbed into the body’s lymphatic system for removal. Think of: boulders, into rocks, into pebbles, into sand, into dust.
What factors influence how easily a tattoo can be removed?
First is the colors involved. Blacks and darker blues/browns are easiest to remove, as these colors absorb energy most readily. Next come the lighter blues and greens, followed by red/orange/yellows. It is important to know that in order to remove multiple colors, the laser must have a variety of wavelengths. The PicoSure Pro has three different wavelengths, whereas all other tattoo removal lasers only have two.
The second factor is the client’s skin color. Darker skin tones tend to be more challenging, as the laser has a harder time distinguishing between the skin pigment and the tattoo ink. Since the PicoSure Pro is safe for all skin types, it is the ideal laser to remove tattoos in darker skin tones. However, some skin is just too dark to treat.
Third is the depth and density of the ink, which are hard to measure. Professional tattoos tend to have darker and denser, more saturated colors. Layering the ink (a more professional technique) can influence the outcome. Amateur tattoos are more superficial and less dense, thus tend to be a bit easier to remove. But DO NOT get an amateur tattoo!
The age of the tattoo also plays a role, with older tattoos being more resistant to removal. It is safe to start tattoo removal as soon as 4-6 months after getting one.
Lastly, the location of the tattoo makes a difference. Face and neck tattoos tend to be easiest due to proximity to the heart and robust circulation, followed by tattoos on the trunk. The further away from the heart you go, the harder it is to remove, so out on the hands and feet are more difficult.
What Results Can I Expect?
Tattoo removal is not instantaneous. It will take several sessions to eliminate unwanted pigmentation from your skin. The number of treatments necessary will depend on the size of your tattoo, its location, and its color. Dr. Esslinger will work with you to determine the optimal treatment protocol to ensure you get your desired results.
Keeping in mind that tattoo removal can be painful, we have several modalities to make the experience more comfortable, including
- numbing creams
- skin chiller (Zimmer chiller)
- Nitrous oxide (laughing) gas
Visit Us in Northwest Georgia for PicoSure® Pro Tattoo Removal
While it is impossible to give an exact number of treatments required to remove a tattoo, we can give a good estimate. Come in today for a consultation to discuss that tattoo you regret, or to make room for new ink!
Make your appointment by dialing (470) 888-6543 or using the appointment form below. You can also explore our treatment packages through our EM&A Rewards App. Visit the app or contact our office to get started today.
