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PicoSecond Laser Tattoo Removal

PicoSecond Laser Tattoo Removal

If you’ve ever felt that a tattoo no longer represents who you are, you’re not alone. Changes in personal taste, lifestyle and even career can transform how we feel about our ink. At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics near Denver, our team of Board-Certified Dermatologists, led by the renowned Dr. Joel Cohen, offers a cutting-edge solution for those seeking change: tattoo removal with the PicoSecond laser.

Thanks to the revolutionary PicoSecond laser technology, we can now truly see major minimization and removal of an undesired tattoo that was once considered permanent. The tattoo will be completely gone, with no blemishes, no ink and no trace left on your skin. After a series of treatments, most people won’t know you ever had a tattoo to begin with.

What Is Tattoo Removal With the PicoSecond Laser?

The PicoSecond laser is an innovative treatment that can often help you say goodbye to unwanted tattoos. This laser uses ultra-short pulses to shatter the ink particles in the skin. This effective and minimally invasive method provides a safe way to clear your skin of unwanted ink. The PicoSecond laser operates at specific wavelengths tailored to different ink colors and skin types, providing personalized treatments. We often blend treatment sessions with not only the PicoSecond laser but also the Q-switched laser as well.

The Science Behind PicoSecond Laser Technology

The PicoSecond laser uses highly advanced technology designed to address pigmentation issues, including tattoos, by delivering ultra-short laser pulses. These pulses target and break down pigment particles in the skin without damaging surrounding tissue. The body’s lymphatic system then naturally eliminates these particles.

Wavelength and Versatility

The PicoSecond laser operates at multiple wavelengths (typically around 532 nm and 1064 nm), allowing it to target a wide range of ink colors. The 532 nm wavelength is particularly effective for red, orange and yellow ink, while the 1064 nm wavelength targets black, blue and green ink. This versatility makes it a powerful tool for removing multicolored tattoos.

Minimal Heat Emission and Safety

The rapid emission of the short pulse minimizes heat, making the treatment safe and comfortable for patients. This reduces the risk of heat damage to the skin, a common issue with traditional lasers that use longer pulses.

Precision and Targeted Treatment

The laser’s precision allows for targeted treatment, focusing specifically on the ink particles while sparing the surrounding skin. This precision enables the laser to target even the smallest ink particles of various colors, making it highly effective for removing a wide range of tattoos.

The Benefits of PicoSecond Laser Tattoo Removal

Effective on All Ink Colors

The PicoSecond laser can effectively treat a wide range of ink colors, including those that are traditionally difficult to remove.

Faster Results

Due to its advanced technology and ultra-short pulses, the PicoSecond laser often provides faster results compared to older laser treatments.

Minimal Discomfort

The treatment is designed to be comfortable, with most patients experiencing only minor discomfort. Many describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin.

What Types of Tattoos Can the PicoSecond Laser Minimize or Treat?

Tattoo removal with the PicoSecond laser is capable of addressing the following types of tattoos:

  • Professional tattoos: Whether black or colored, large or small
  • Amateur tattoos: Often easier to remove due to the lesser depth of ink
  • Cosmetic tattoos: Including eyebrow tattoos and other forms of permanent makeup

Who Are Good Candidates for Tattoo Removal?

Ideal candidates for tattoo removal with the PicoSecond laser are individuals who:

  • Have clear, realistic expectations about the outcomes
  • Are in good health with no active skin infections
  • Do not have a history of keloid scarring

Understanding that every tattoo and skin type is unique is crucial in setting the right expectations for this treatment.

Preparing for Tattoo Removal With the PicoSecond Laser

Preparing for your tattoo removal involves several key steps, including:

Your Consultation

You’ll meet with one of our Board-Certified Dermatologists or aesthetic professionals to discuss your medical history and treatment goals. They will assess your needs, tattoo and skin type to create a personalized tattoo removal treatment plan.

Pre-Treatment Care

Avoid being tan or even “bronzed” from the sun. This is accomplished best by avoiding significant sun exposure and tanning beds for at least six weeks before your treatment to prevent complications.

On Treatment Day

Make sure the treatment area is clean and free of hair as well as lotions and makeup.

What to Expect During Your Tattoo Removal Procedure

Your tattoo removal session will proceed as follows:

  1. Skin Cleansing

    We will thoroughly cleanse your treatment area.

  2. Application of the Laser

    One of our Board-Certified Dermatologists or aesthetic professionals will carefully treat the tattoo with the PicoSecond laser, breaking up the ink particles.

  3. Immediate Aftercare

    A cooling gel or pack will be applied to your skin to cool it and soothe discomfort. After each session, follow the aftercare instructions provided by our team to aid healing and improve results.

What to Expect After Tattoo Removal: Recovery From PicoSecond Laser Treatment

After each laser session, you can anticipate:

  1. Initial Recovery

    You may notice some redness and swelling immediately after your laser tattoo removal treatment. These are normal and typically subside within a day or two.

  2. Care Instructions

    You’ll be advised to keep the area clean and follow a gentle skincare routine that often includes applying ointment as directed.

  3. Avoidance

    Refrain from vigorous exercise for 24 hours and direct sun exposure for at least a week to allow for optimal healing (we recommend using UPF clothing rather than just sunscreen).

  4. Gradual Fading

    Your tattoo should gradually fade over the course of several or sometimes many sessions. Patience and adherence to the treatment plan are key.

How Many Laser Tattoo Removal Sessions Will I Need?

The number of laser tattoo removal sessions needed varies based on multiple factors, including the size, color, type of ink and age of your tattoo.

Size of the Tattoo

  • Small tattoos (less than 3 inches): Typically require five to six sessions or more
  • Medium tattoos (3 to 6 inches): Generally need seven to eight sessions or more
  • Large tattoos (over 6 inches): Often require 11 to 12 sessions or more

Color of the Tattoo

  • Black and dark blue ink: Usually respond faster, requiring fewer sessions
  • Red, green and yellow ink: These colors are more challenging to remove and may require additional sessions (sometimes 10 or more)

Age of the Tattoo

  • New tattoos (less than one year old): Fresh ink may take more sessions to break down effectively
  • Older tattoos (more than one year old): Older tattoos tend to respond more quickly to laser treatments

Additional Factors

  • Skin type: Different skin colors as the background to the tattoo may affect the number of sessions needed. For example, lighter skin may require fewer sessions compared to darker skin (related to the contrast between the tattoo ink and the skin).
  • Ink depth: Tattoos with ink deposited deeper in the skin may need more sessions to treat or remove more thoroughly.

 

During your consultation, one of our Board-Certified Dermatologists or aesthetic professionals will assess your tattoo and skin type to provide a more personalized estimate of the number of sessions you’ll need. Each session is spaced out to allow your body time to eliminate the broken-down ink particles effectively. Typically, sessions are scheduled every six to eight weeks.

How Long Does Each Session Take?

The duration of each session can vary depending on the size and complexity of the tattoo. On average, sessions last between 15 and 30 minutes.

What Results Can I Expect From Tattoo Removal With PicoSecond Laser?

While results vary, most patients can expect initial fading after a series of sessions. The tattoo will continue to lighten throughout a series of treatments until it is less visible or hopefully no longer visible. The advanced technology of the PicoSecond laser usually breaks-down even the most stubborn ink particles, often resulting in the complete removal of the tattoo.

Can I Get a New Tattoo After Removing an Old One?

Yes, once your skin has fully healed and returned to its normal texture and color, you can get a new tattoo in the same area if you really want.

Why Choose AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics?

At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, we blend expertise, cutting-edge technology, and personalized care to achieve excellent results. Renowned laser expert Dr. Joel L. Cohen (FAAD, FACMS) leads our dedicated team, focusing on the most cutting-edge technologies and helping you reach your skincare goals. Our commitment to patient satisfaction and the latest in dermatological advancements make us a reliable partner in tattoo removal.

Our Expertise

Dr. Cohen and our Board-Certified Dermatologists and aesthetic professionals bring years of experience and specialized training in laser treatments. Our clinic is equipped with the latest technology and most cutting-edge treatments to provide safe and effective tattoo removal.

Personalized Care

We understand that every patient is unique. Our approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and achieve the best possible outcome.

Remove Unwanted Tattoos Without a Trace in Denver

Our goal at AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics is to provide personalized care that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Together, we can make your skin a blank canvas again.

Feel free to contact us with any questions or to book your appointment with Dr. Joel Cohen and our team of dermatology experts. We look forward to helping you eliminate unwanted tattoos and experience blemish-free skin with the PicoSecond laser.

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Greenwood Village Office

5340 South Quebec ST., STE. 300 (South Entrance)
Greenwood Village, CO 80111

(303) 756-7546

Sky Ridge Medical Center

Closing effective Sept 1, 2024

10099 Ridgegate Parkway, Ste. 490 (Conifer Building)
Lone Tree, CO 80124

(303) 756-7546

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Effective September 1, 2024, our Skyridge office will be permanently closed. We are consolidating operations at our central clinic to focus on combining the best technology and to provide impeccable service to you. If you have an appointment scheduled past this date at the Skyridge office, your appointment date and time will remain the same. You will now be seen at our Greenwood Village Location at:

5340 South Quebec Street, Suite 300
(SOUTH entrance)
Greenwood Village, CO 80111

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Thank you.