Tattoo Removal

As permanent tattoos grow in popularity, so too have requests for laser tattoo removal. In the past, tattoos were removed by surgical excision- a technique which resulted in severe scarring and downtime. Latest generations of Picosecond Lasers (“PicoLasers”) are able to remove tattoos effectively and safely- laser energy is absorbed by the tattoo pigments which shatter- allowing for them to be cleared by the circulatory system. The number of sessions required would depend on several factors- patient’s skin color type, tattoo color type, amount of ink used, degree of scarring and location of tattoo on the body. The Kirby-Desai Tattoo Removal Scale (named after two Dermatologists who focused their work on Tattoo removal) provides a convenient estimate of the number of treatments needed. Typically 5-10 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart are needed to achieve 80-90% clearance of the tattoo. At Bay Aesthetics Clinic- we use the PicoSure – the only US FDA approved 755nm Alexandrite PicoSecond laser. to target a wide range of tattoo inks. Black, blue, brown inks can be effectively treated. White, pink, green, red and light blue inks are difficult to treat.

Frequently Asked Questions