Pico laser tattoo removal is clinically proven to clear unwanted tattoos.
By shattering unwanted tattoos with minimal collateral damage, Pico laser treatment is associated with faster clearance, less side effects and less pain.
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Pico laser is gold standard for tattoo removal
Lower risk of post-inflammatory hyerpigmentation
From $250 onwards per session (depending on size)
Pico laser tattoo removal is the current gold standard at removing unwanted tattoos. Pico laser technology uses high powered ultrashort pulses of energy to break down tattoo pigments without much heat and damage to the surrounding skin. As the tattoo is heated, it undergoes violent thermal expansion, generating shock waves audible as a popping sound with each laser pulse. By breaking down the tattoo pigments into smaller particles, your body then naturally removes your tattoo pigments over time.
Laser tattoo removal depends on the wavelength of the laser.
Laser tattoo removal works by emitting specific wavelengths of light that are selectively absorbed by the tattoo pigments. This process, known as selective photothermolysis, causes the tattoo ink to fragment into smaller particles, which are then naturally eliminated by the body's immune system over time. Different laser wavelengths are employed based on the color of the tattoo ink, with common types including Q-switched lasers and picosecond lasers, each suited to target different pigments effectively.
Professional Tattoo
“Professional tattoos” refer to tattoos created by experienced and skilled tattoo artists using proper equipment, hygiene practices, and adherence to safety protocols. These tattoos are generally composed of organometallic dyes, have high ink density and placed deeper within your skin.
Amateur Tattoo
Amateur tattoos are tattoos that are typically performed by individuals without professional training or experience in tattooing. These tattoos are often done in non-sterile environments, using homemade or improvised tattooing equipment, and without proper safety precautions. Moreover, they are generally composed of cabron-rich mixtures such as india ink, have sparse ink density and have irregular ink depth in the superficial layers of your skin. Typically, lesser laser sessions are required.
Medical tattoo
Medical tattoos, also known as medical alert tattoos or medical identification tattoos, are tattoos that serve a specific medical purpose. Unlike decorative tattoos, which are chosen for aesthetic reasons, medical tattoos convey important information about the wearer’s health condition or medical history. They are generally composed of carbon, have sparse and superficial ink density.
Cosmetic Tattoo
Cosmetic tattooing, also known as permanent makeup or micropigmentation, involves the application of pigment to the skin to create long-lasting enhancements that resemble makeup. They are generally composed of a mixture of compounds (e.g. ferric oxide, titanium dioxide) with sparse ink density and found in the superficial layers of the skin.
Traumatic Tattoo
A traumatic tattoo, also known as an accidental tattoo or traumatic pigmentary alteration, occurs when foreign material becomes embedded in the skin as a result of trauma or injury. This can happen when particles from objects such as asphalt, dirt, metal, or gunpowder are forcefully driven into the skin during accidents, explosions, or incidents involving high-velocity projectiles. They have variable ink density and depth with your skin. Traumatic tattoos must be approached with caution, as they may contain explosive particles, leading to skin scarring during laser treatment.
Every individual who desires tattoo removal has unique characteristics that has to be taken into account as it affects treatment outcomes. These include:
There are certain instances where it may be unsafe to carry out the laser procedure. These include:
Before undergoing laser tattoo removal, there are several precautions and preparations to follow to ensure the procedure is as safe and effective as possible. Here are some key things to avoid before your laser tattoo removal session:
Sun Exposure:
Self-Tanners and Spray Tans:
Certain Medications:
Skin Irritants:
Alcohol and Smoking:
Waxing, Plucking, or Epilating:
Cosmetic Procedures:
Hydration and Moisturization:
The best laser tattoo removal approach takes into consideration the colour, depth, location and whether the tattoo done by a professional or amateur tattoo artists. For example, an amateur tattoo usually requires less sessions as only one ink type is used and the ink is placed in a more superficial location in the skin.
The Kirby-Desai Scale gives the approximate number of laser sessions you may need. It is a validated practical tool that allows an individual to estimate the number of laser sessions needed and the costs involved. This scale takes into account your skin type, location of tattoo, layering, number of colours and history of skin scarring.
Laser treatments are spaced at least 6-8 weeks apart to enable healing of the skin and to allow clearance of the tattoo pigment by the body’s immune system.
Following your laser procedure, it is recommended that you:
Dr Ng. suggests that you wait for at least 6 months after your tattoo procedure. This is to avoid any undesirable interaction of the laser with the tattoo pigments if performed too early.
After a consultation and assessment of your skin, your doctor should give you information on the best laser tattoo removal treatment options, expected recovery and side effects.
A topical anaesthetic cream is applied to numb your skin, maximizing your comfort. The laser pulse feels like a rubber band snapping against your skin. You will experience some discomfort, redness and swelling after the laser, which will fade in a few days. Skin care and sun avoidance after the procedure is crucial to prevent complications like infection, scarring and pigmentation.
A topical anaesthetic cream is applied to your skin prior to the procedure to optimize your comfort. A rubber snapping sensation is felt. From studies, pico-second laser is less painful than Q-switched laser tattoo removal.
There will be some redness, swelling and discomfort immediately after your laser tattoo removal procedure. However, this only lasts a few days. In some patients, a blister may form which can take up to 2 weeks to heal depending on the size of it. Uncommon side effects include hyperpigmentation, paradoxical darkening, hypopigmentation, infection, skin textural changes and scarring.
Yes. Laser tattoo removal is selective and causes minimal collateral damage to the skin. For darker skin individuals, laser treatments can be safely and effectively carried out. Dr Moses Ng usually advises a gradual step wise approach when it comes to laser tattoo removal in individuals with darker skin type.
Pico-second lasers are effective at removing multi-coloured tattoos. The removal of tattoos would depend on the wavelength of the laser. For example, the 1064nm picosecond laser is effective for black ink. The 532nm picosecond laser is useful for red, yellow, purple and orange colours. However, not all inks respond to laser.
Paradoxical darkening refers to the darkening of your tattoo after your laser procedure. This can occur with tattoos of various colours. This effect is due to a chemical reaction to compounds such as iron oxide that are contained within the tattoo. If this occurs, it can be treated with a 1064nm picoseond laser.
Depending on the type, colour and depth of your tattoo, visible results can be seen on average at 6-8 weeks after your laser procedure.
Laser tattoo removal is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure widely recognized for its efficacy and safety in eliminating unwanted tattoos. Utilizing advanced laser technology, this procedure offers a reliable solution for individuals seeking to remove or fade tattoos for various personal, professional, or aesthetic reasons. If you want to explore options on how to remove your tattoos effectively, contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr.Ng.
Laser tattoo removal represents a highly effective and safe method for the removal of unwanted tattoos. With advancements in laser technology, the ability to treat a wide range of tattoo colors and types has significantly improved, offering patients a tailored approach to meet their individual needs. Proper patient selection, education, and post-treatment care are essential components to achieve optimal results and patient satisfaction.
Dr. Moses Ng is a distinguished professional in the field of aesthetic medicine, renowned for his expertise in advanced cosmetic procedures. With over 15 years of experience, extensive training and a keen eye for detail, Dr. Ng specializes in a wide range of treatments, including injectables, laser therapies, and acne scar management.
Dr. Moses Ng’s commitment to excellence and patient-centric approach have earned him a reputation as a trusted clinician in aesthetic medicine. His continuous pursuit of the latest advancements in the field ensures that his patients receive the highest standard of care and the most effective treatments available.