What should you know about Nd:YAG tattoo removal?

The laser's energy is absorbed more strongly by tattoo pigment than by the surrounding tissue when the correct settings are selected. The ink breaks into smaller particles, and the body gradually clears them. A clinician considers ink colour, density, depth, tattoo age, location, skin tone and any scarring before choosing a wavelength and pulse setting.

Treatment can feel hot, sharp or elastic-band-like. Redness, swelling, tenderness, blistering or crusting may occur as the skin heals. Fading is progressive, and some colours or layered pigment can be more difficult to change. A tattoo that has been treated before may need a different approach after the skin has recovered.

Before treatment, disclose tanning, eczema, active infection, medicines, allergies, a history of abnormal scars and earlier removal attempts. Keep the tattoo out of direct sun and follow the provider's instructions about shaving and topical products. Appropriate eye protection is required during the laser session.

After the appointment, wash gently, keep any dressing in place as directed, and do not scratch, peel crusts or puncture blisters. Use the recommended ointment and protect the area from sunlight. Wait until the skin is healed before another session or irritating cosmetic treatment.

Contact the clinic for worsening pain, spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus, fever, severe swelling, extensive blistering or a wound that remains open. Seek urgent help if facial swelling, widespread hives or breathing trouble develops. Persistent changes in skin colour or a firm raised area should be assessed before further treatment.

Which ink colours are likely to respond to the proposed Nd:YAG setting? How will you distinguish normal healing from infection, and what aftercare is available if blistering occurs? Ask whether a test spot, an alternative wavelength or a different laser technology would be more suitable.