Many people regret their choice of tattoos. This is becoming more and more evident, as there has been an increase in the number of people opting for tattoo removal. PicoSure is a tattoo-removal method that has always been there for those looking to get rid of an unwanted tattoo. This FDA-approved non-surgical and non-invasive laser treatment uses short bursts of energy to remove tattoos.
The Laser Tattoo Removal Process
Earlier, Q-switched lasers were used for removing tattoos. They used thermal energy to break up the ink particles with the use of high heat.
In the PicoSure method, extremely short pulses of laser energy attack the ink pigment in the skin. Immense pressure is applied in this fashion, and it causes the ink pigment to shatter into tiny particles. The minuscule size of the particles allows them to be safely absorbed and eliminated by the body.
Though the procedure of removing a tattoo is somewhat more uncomfortable than getting one, a numbing solution or cooling agent is administered before the laser process is started.
PicoSure is quite versatile and has several settings. A laser with a wavelength of 532 nm is used to effectively treat orange, yellow, and red tattoo colors. The laser with a wavelength of 755 nm treats all the other colors. By this method, the chances of the removal of ink particles become much better than with the older methods. The skin does not get damaged by this procedure.
The number of treatments needed will depend on the location, size, and ink type of the tattoo. It takes between one and two months for the body to break down and absorb the ink particles.
Preparing for the Treatment
Before the treatment, it is always advisable to follow certain steps in order to ensure effective removal of the tattoo. Direct exposure to the sun should be avoided. An SPF of 50 should always be applied if stepping out in the sun, and tanning beds are a complete no-no. Medications that make you sensitive to light should not be taken.
Before the procedure, the tattooed area has to be shaved clean of any hair. You should remove all makeup, oils, and creams from the tattooed area before the procedure. These measures will ensure a thorough removal of the tattoo.
After Treatment
After the laser treatment is over, you will see some swelling and redness in the treated area. Scabs and blisters are a common side effect of tattoo removal. However, these are typically quite temporary. In order to speed up the process of healing, you will have to apply a healing ointment and cover it with gauze.
The area treated has to be protected from the harsh rays of the sun. The best option is to keep the area covered when stepping outside. Also, you will have to be extremely careful so that you do not get any kind of infection.
Contact Our Office to Learn More
For a consultation regarding laser tattoo removal, get in contact with our office. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Filiberto Rodriguez has years of experienced with a wide variety of aesthetic treatments and procedures.
