Let’s face it; sometimes tattoos don’t represent who we are today. Laser tattoo removal has become the gold standard treatment for tattoo removal because it is practical, low risk and has minimal side effects. Tattoo removal is any method of removing a tattoo from the skin. There is a wide range of tattoo removal methods out there, including dermabrasion (scrubbing off layers of the skin), TCA (which is an acid which removes layers of skin), an excision (cutting the tattoo out) and, of course, laser (using energy to break down the ink particles).
Tattoos have become one of the most significant fashion statements of the 21st century. Everyone, from students to pensioners, are getting inked up these days. But as with flares, dralon sofas and perms, things go out of fashion, and the same is true for your ink. Tribal was big a few years ago. Now it’s full sleeves and massive chest and back pieces with hyper-realistic artwork or geometric designs.
So what happens when your ink starts looking dated, or you’ve just fallen out of love? Until a few years ago, your options were limited.
You could have had it surgically removed (ouch) or tried tattoo-fading creams (don’t waste your money, they don’t work). But the advent of lasers means tattoo removal is now more readily available and effective than ever. Laser tattoo removal works by firing laser light into the tattoo, which breaks the ink into tiny pieces; these little pieces are accessible for the body to absorb. This allows the ink to be removed from the body itself. Laser tattoo removal avoids damaging the skin while removing the tattoo, unlike other tattoo removal methods. Laser tattoo removal is a simple and safe way to fade or remove your unwanted tattoo; this advanced technology allows the laser light to pass through the skin and break up the tattoo ink into tiny particles. The body can then dispose of these fragments through its immune system.
Traditional lasers have been around for a while, but the newer PicoSure & PicoWay lasers are a breakthrough in laser tattoo removal.
Some of the benefits of Picosure & PicoWay laser tattoo removal:
- Less painful treatments
- Effective on all colours of the tattoo, even greens and blues
- Fewer treatments are required; the whole tattoo can be removed in as little as four treatments.
Conventional tattoo removal relies heavily on photo-thermal energy to target the tattoo’s pigment and surrounding skin. While it can successfully remove a tattoo, treatments need to be spaced from six weeks to two months apart, and it may take anything from 10-20 treatments to remove a tattoo entirely. On top of this, it was not always effective on certain inks such as greens and blues.
The newer PicoSure/PicoWay tattoo removal lasers use photo-mechanical principles instead of photo-thermal alone, combined with ultra-short pulses called pico-seconds (one trillionth of a second) to shatter the ink into minute particles which your body then eliminates itself. This robust process means the whole tattoo can be erased in as little as 3-8 treatments. Requiring less heat and energy means the surrounding tissue is left unharmed, and the space between treatments can be much shorter too. It is also effective in all colours, including those greens and blues!
Laser tattoo removal has become an increasingly popular procedure in recent years as people look for ways to erase unwanted tattoos from their skin. Whether it’s a regrettable impulse decision or a faded design that’s lost its appeal, laser tattoo removal can effectively eliminate the pigment without leaving scars or other unwanted side effects. In this article, we’ll examine how laser tattoo removal works, what to expect during the procedure, and how to ensure the best possible outcome.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
Laser tattoo removal uses targeted pulses of laser energy to break up the ink particles in the skin. The laser emits a specific wavelength of light absorbed by the pigment in the tattoo. Causing it to heat up and break apart. The body’s immune system then flushes out the broken-up ink particles over time. The effectiveness of laser tattoo removal depends on several factors. Including the colour and type of ink used, the age and size of the tattoo, and the patient’s skin tone and overall health.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before the procedure begins, the patient will consult with the laser technician to discuss their goals and expectations and any medical history that may affect the process. The area to be treated will then be cleaned and numbed with a topical anaesthetic. The laser will then be applied to the skin. With each pulse feeling like a small, quick snap against the skin. The procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or more. Depending on the size and complexity of the tattoo.
After the procedure, the treated area may be red, swollen, and tender. The patient may experience some mild discomfort or itching. It’s essential to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the technician. Which may include applying a topical antibiotic ointment, avoiding sun exposure, and avoiding strenuous activity for a few days.
How to Ensure the Best Possible Outcome
While laser tattoo removal is generally safe and effective. There are some steps patients can take to ensure the best possible outcome. First and foremost, choosing a reputable and experienced laser technician who is licensed and trained in the latest laser technology is essential. Patients should also be honest about their medical history and any medications they may be taking. As certain conditions or medications can affect the procedure.
In addition, patients should follow the aftercare instructions provided by the technician and avoid picking at or scratching the treated area. They should also avoid exposing the site to sun or heat, which can cause discolouration or other complications. Finally, it’s essential to have realistic expectations about the procedure’s results. While laser tattoo removal can effectively lighten or remove a tattoo. It may take multiple treatments, and complete removal is not guaranteed.
In conclusion, laser tattoo removal is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted tattoos. By understanding how the procedure works. What to expect during and after the treatment, and how to ensure the best possible outcome. Patients can decide whether laser tattoo removal is right for them. If you’re considering laser tattoo removal. Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable technician who can provide the best possible care.
