What Should I Know About Tattoo Removal?
Posted in PicoSure® FOCUS™, Tattoo Removal
Tattoos always seem like a great idea when you walk into the studio and choose the image that will stay with you forever. Unfortunately, the excitement and enthusiasm experienced on that first day may not always last. Whether you decided to get the name of a significant other who is no longer in the picture or your tattoos are interfering with your professional plans, there are many reasons to consider saying goodbye to your ink.
How Challenging Is It to Remove a Tattoo?
Luckily for tattoo removal patients, there have been many improvements in the industry. There was once a time when tattoo removal was accomplished by slicing layers of skin until the ink was no longer visible. This was painful and left behind significant scarring. Tattoo removal is no longer performed this way. Now, tattoo removal is as simple as a laser treatment.
Is It Painful?
The PicoSure® laser targets and removes unwanted tattoos by exposing the area to short, intense pulses of light. This light is absorbed by the body and breaks down the tattoo pigment. This procedure may involve rubbing a numbing cream on the tattoo. However, this may not be necessary, as the PicoSure® is a non-invasive treatment that often results in no pain. Most patients compare the feeling of the PicoSure® laser to that of a rubber band snapping against the skin. There is no downtime and minimal chance of side effects. Patients may experience some temporary redness, but this will subside shortly. Because this treatment uses short pulses of light, there is little damage done to the surrounding skin, which means a safer and more reliable treatment.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Just as many tattoos require multiple sessions, so does tattoo removal. No matter how small or large your tattoo is, you will need more than one session. Most patients undergo three to five PicoSure® treatments. Larger tattoos and tattoos with many colors (especially blues and greens) may require more sessions since colored ink is more difficult to break down. The PicoSure® can reduce new tattoos or previously treated tattoos and can do so with minimal chance of scarring.
What Else Does the PicoSure® Treat?
While the PicoSure® is most commonly used for tattoo removal, it has other uses as well. PicoSure® is a laser treatment that boosts collagen and elastin production, making it an ideal choice for pigmentation issues. The PicoSure® can address unwanted freckles, brown spots, acne scars, and wrinkling, making it an all-encompassing skin revitalization treatment. The procedure for these concerns is the same as that for tattoo removal; however, most patients only require two or three sessions to see improvement in their skin condition. As a non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure, the PicoSure® is an excellent option for people with busy schedules.
If you want to say goodbye to your tattoo, contact the Spa at Spring Ridge by calling (610) 927-3223 or by filling out our online contact form.