What should you know about picosecond tattoo removal?

A handpiece delivers bursts of laser energy in picoseconds, an extremely short time interval. The energy targets selected pigment and creates a photoacoustic effect that fragments ink rather than relying only on heat. Different ink colours and depths respond differently, so a clinician may choose more than one wavelength. The tattoo can look temporarily lighter, darker, swollen, or crusted after treatment. Fading occurs between appointments as the skin heals and immune cells remove pigment fragments.

During a consultation, show the complete tattoo and mention previous laser sessions, raised scars, cold sores, medicines, allergies, and any tendency to develop dark marks. Follow instructions about sun exposure and products before treatment. Afterward, keep the area clean, avoid picking flakes or blisters, and protect healing skin from sunlight with clothing or the recommended sunscreen. Ask when shaving, swimming, exercise, or cosmetics are suitable for that area. Several sessions may be needed, and some ink may remain.

Contact the treating clinic promptly if redness spreads, pain intensifies, swelling continues to increase, or drainage develops. Seek urgent care for facial swelling affecting breathing, widespread hives, fever with worsening skin changes, or severe eye symptoms when treatment was near the eyes.

Which laser wavelength fits each ink colour? How will my skin tone and any history of scarring affect the plan? What healing changes should I expect, and what aftercare products are appropriate?