Laser Tattoo Removal
Whether you’re looking to erase an old tattoo that no longer fits your lifestyle, rejuvenate your skin, or address pigmentation issues, we have the advanced technology to help you achieve your goals. At Aesthetics and Medical Lasers of Colorado, we offer state-of-the-art tattoo removal services using the latest Pico laser technology. Our expert team is here to provide a safe and more cost-effective solution.
Why Pico Laser?
The Pico laser is the most advanced laser technology available for tattoo removal. Unlike traditional nanosecond lasers, which use heat to break down tattoo ink particles, the Pico laser delivers ultra-short pulses of energy measured in picoseconds. These rapid pulses shatter the ink into much smaller particles, allowing your body to naturally clear them away faster and more efficiently.
Benefits of Pico Laser Tattoo Removal
- Faster Results: Pico lasers typically require fewer sessions than traditional lasers, with visible improvement after each treatment.
- All Skin Types: The precision of Pico technology makes it safe and effective for all skin types and tones, reducing the risk of scarring or pigmentation issues.
- Less Discomfort: Because the Pico laser works more quickly, treatments are often less painful and require minimal downtime.
- Removes Difficult Colors: The Pico laser is highly effective on challenging ink colors, such as blues, greens, and reds, that are often resistant to other forms of treatment.
How Tattoo Removal Works
During a treatment session, the Pico laser targets the tattoo ink without damaging the surrounding skin. The ultra-fast pulses break the ink into tiny fragments, which your immune system then naturally eliminates over time. Multiple sessions are typically required depending on factors like tattoo size, color, and age, but many patients notice fading even after the first session.
What to Expect
Consultation: We begin with a personalized consultation to assess your tattoo and discuss your goals. We’ll create a custom treatment plan that suits your needs.
Treatment: Each session takes approximately 10-30 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of your tattoo. You may feel mild discomfort, but most patients tolerate the procedure well.
Recovery: After treatment, the area may feel slightly sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn, but this typically resolves quickly. We’ll provide aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.
How many tattoo removal sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required for tattoo removal with Pico laser technology varies based on several factors, including:
- Tattoo size: Larger tattoos generally require more sessions.
- Ink colors: Darker inks like black and blue typically respond faster, while colors like green, yellow, and red may need additional treatments.
- Tattoo age: Older tattoos often fade more easily, while newer tattoos may take longer.
- Ink depth and quality: Professional tattoos with deeper, high-quality ink can take more time to fully remove.
- Skin type: Different skin tones may respond differently to laser treatments.
On average, most patients need 6 to 8 sessions for optimal results, but some tattoos may require more depending on the complexity. Sessions are usually spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart to allow the skin to heal and the body to process the ink fragments.
When it comes to removing colored tattoo inks like green, red, and yellow, specific wavelengths of laser light are more effective at targeting these colors:
Tattoo Removal: The Best Wavelengths for Different Ink Colors
Green Ink: The most effective wavelength for green ink is 694 nm, typically delivered by a Ruby laser. However, the 755 nm wavelength from PicoSure’s Alexandrite laser also works well.
Red Ink: The 532 nm wavelength (green light) is best for removing red ink. Both PicoWay and PicoSure lasers offer this wavelength.
Yellow Ink: Yellow ink can be particularly challenging to remove, but 532 nm is effective for targeting this color.
Different wavelengths are used to target specific ink colors because of how various pigments absorb light. PicoWay’s multi-wavelength capability (532 nm, 785 nm, and 1064 nm) makes it versatile for treating a wide range of colors, while PicoSure’s 755 nm wavelength is especially effective for green and blue inks.
Common Side Effects of Pico Laser Tattoo Removal
While Pico laser tattoo removal is safe, there are some common side effects:
- Redness and Swelling: The treated area may be red and swollen for a few hours or days.
- Blistering: Small blisters can form as part of the healing process but typically resolve within a few days.
- Scabbing: Scabs may form as the area heals. Avoid picking to prevent scarring.
- Temporary Skin Color Changes: The skin may lighten or darken temporarily (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation), especially for those with darker skin tones. This usually fades over time.
- Mild Discomfort: A sunburn-like sensation may occur but generally subsides within a day or two.
- Itching: Mild itching can occur as the skin heals.
Less common but more serious side effects, like infection and scarring, are rare when the procedure is performed by a trained professional, and post-care instructions are followed.
Cost of Pico Laser Tattoo Removal
The cost of Pico laser tattoo removal depends on factors such as the size, complexity, and colors of the tattoo, as well as the number of sessions required. On average, the price range per session is:
- Small tattoos (1-2 inches): $150 to $300
- Medium tattoos (3-6 inches): $250 to $400
- Large tattoos (7+ inches): $500 to $800
Since multiple sessions are usually needed, the total cost can add up. Many providers offer package deals or discounts for booking multiple sessions. During your consultation, you’ll receive a personalized estimate based on your tattoo and the expected number of treatments.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Painful?
Laser tattoo removal isn’t painless, and the level of discomfort can vary based on the tattoo’s location, size, and your pain tolerance. Most people describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin or a mild stinging feeling.
To reduce discomfort, many providers apply numbing creams or use cooling devices before treatment. While certain areas, like the ribs or ankles, tend to be more sensitive, most patients find the procedure tolerable. Additionally, sessions are relatively short, usually lasting between 10 and 30 minutes.
Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare Instructions
After laser tattoo removal, proper aftercare is essential to promote healing and avoid complications. Here are the typical aftercare instructions:
- Gently clean the treated area with mild soap and water. Pat the area dry with a clean towel, avoiding rubbing.
- Apply a healing ointment such as Aquaphor or Vaseline to keep the skin moisturized and protected. Reapply the ointment 2-3 times a day for a few days or as directed by your provider.
- Avoid Sun Exposure. The treated skin will be more sensitive to sunlight, so keep the area covered. Use sunscreen with an SPF 35 or higher.
- Avoid Picking or Scratching. If blistering, scabbing, or peeling occurs, do not pick at the skin to prevent infection and scarring. Allow the skin to heal naturally.
- Avoid Hot Tubs and Swimming Pools Avoid soaking the treated area in water, like hot tubs, swimming pools, or baths, for at least a few days to prevent infection.
- Wear Loose Clothing If the tattoo is in an area that comes into contact with clothing, wear loose-fitting clothes to avoid irritation.
- Monitor for Signs of Infection Watch for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, yellow discharge, or severe pain. If these occur, contact your doctor immediately.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support your body’s healing process and help your immune system clear the ink fragments.
At Aesthetics and Medical Lasers of Colorado, our experienced team will assess your needs and recommend the best laser treatment plan for your tattoo removal.
Ready to delete that tattoo? Call us at 720-818-0533 or visit our website at aestheticsandmedicallasers.com to learn more about Pico laser technology and schedule your consultation today.
