Pico Laser Tattoo Removal

Tattoo removal was long thought of as a painful, lengthy and expensive process to eliminate the unwanted tattoo or permanent makeup. But now, with the innovation of technology, tattoo removal is so much more accessible. For those who wish to start fresh and erase any unwanted pigment on your canvas, keep reading to find out more about Picosecond Laser technology.

1. WHAT IS PICO LASER?

Picosecond Laser (Pico Laser) represents the cutting edge of a type of laser technology known as ultra-short pulse lasers. The pulse duration (how much time 1 laser shot stays on the skin) of a Picosecond is 100 times shorter (and therefore, 100 times faster) than traditional (Q-Switched) nanosecond technology, hence the name Pico Laser. In another word, more shots can be fired by a Pico Laser in the same amount of time.

These lasers are designed to deliver energy so rapidly, Picosecond (one trillionth of a second in length) to hit the melanin with great pressure. The rapid flashing minimizes the amount of heat and creates a photomechanical impact called pressurewave that’s highly effective in removing tattoo ink and unwanted pigments. Less heat means less surface tissue damage and discomfort.

The advantages of Pico Laser:

Non-invasive
No scabbing
No hair loss
No downtime
Lower possibility of PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)
Fewer sessions required, higher clearance rate of pigments

2. HOW DOES IT WORK?

In general, the Pico Laser works by delivering ultra-short pulse bursts of energy into the skin. These pulses are so rapid that they create a change in pressure so powerful that the tattoo ink shatters into tiny dust-like particles which are then easily absorbed and eliminated naturally by the body.

Pico Laser treatment produces a more photoacoustic effect (mechanical) than photothermal (heating) effect compared to nanosecond laser. As the laser light energy is delivered so rapidly, it creates swift vibrations of the pigmentation it targets. The heat dissipates also rapidly which means that the skin only experiences very little heating effect (the laser feeling is like an elastic band being pinged onto your skin). Less heat results in less swelling and downtime, significantly reducing the likelihood of scarring.

3. HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE REQUIRED?

Each situation is different. The color of ink, the size of the tattoo, professionally or amateurly done, and the age of the tattoo will all affect the number of sessions. The individual’s skin color can also be a factor, as darker skin tends to absorb more laser energy, leaving less energy to break down ink pigments thus making tattoo removal more difficult.

There are also other factors, such as patient health, that affect the speed of removal. If a patient is young, physically fit, and has a strong immune system, they will tend to see results faster than an older, obese patient with health problems. We will have a better estimate once we evaluate your tattoo, begin the laser treatments, and see how your body responds to the process.

**Colored body tattoo is more resistant than black and gray and may require additional sessions.

4. DOES IT HURT?

Pain responses to laser tattoo removal are varied and depend on client’s pain tolerance. All clients experience differently, some say it doesn’t hurt at all and some say it hurts a little. To further ensure the highest level of satisfaction of our clients, topical numbing cream is utilized prior to the procedure.

Nevertheless, the sensation is commonly described as bearable and similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Some clients report feeling a pinching or burning sensation during the treatment.

5. WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER REMOVAL PROCEDURE?

As with most laser treatments, you can expect some redness and swelling. For most clients, the redness gives them a slightly flushed look, but the extent of it will depend on the intensity of the procedure and which areas you are treating.

In addition, your skin is likely to experience some frosting in the area where the treatment took place. The heat from the laser can cause gas or plasma to form and carbon dioxide to be released from the skin, which causes the frosting. In some cases, you may see blisters and scabs likely to form. Rest assured that all these are temporary symptoms; you should focus on keeping the treated area moist at all times by applying a lot of water. The most important thing is you want the scabs to fall off naturally instead of trying to get rid of it. Be sure that you do not pick at, rub or scratch the scabs as it can cause infection and scarring.

Unlike other cosmetic procedures that require recovery time, Pico Laser treatment has no downtime. You are immediately safe to return to work or school. The redness and swelling will subside shortly, usually between a few hours and a day or two (depending on the size and intensity of the tattoo).

6. HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WAIT BETWEEN SESSIONS?

The interval between the first session and second session is 2 weeks, any sessions followed by after that is 4 weeks break in between. After the final removal session, 4 – 6 weeks is recommended before getting a new tattoo on that area.

7. WHAT IS THE AFTERCARE?

Pico Laser treatments are completely safe on skin; therefore, minimal aftercare is required. Immediately after the procedure, avoid water on the treated area for 4 hours. After this time, it is technically safe to wear makeup and go out in the sun, it may be best if you refrain from doing so. There is very little risk of skin burn after the Pico Laser treatment, but your skin will be much happier with you if you don’t expose it to any more damaging UV rays. Makeup with certain fragrances and oils can block your pores and interfere with your skin’s healing process.

To ensure the best results, you should avoid rubbing or scratching the treated area. As tempting as it may be, this could irritate your skin and interfere with its healing process. Instead, it is recommended that you wash your face as gently as possible until the redness goes away. This means using cool water, an oil-free cleanser, and touching your face gently.

Receive safe and effective laser tattoo removal at NP Brows & Lashes. Contact us for consultation and free yourself from any unwanted inked.