While tattoos are considered to be a form of permanent skin art, advancements in laser technology have made it possible to reduce the visibility or almost completely eliminate the ink in your skin. Known as laser tattoo removal, this procedure is completed using a rapidly pulsating laser that targets the ink particles in your skin.
Although laser tattoo removal has been around for quite some time, the technology has become exponentially more sophisticated in just the last few years.
One of the most sophisticated devices is the PicoSure4 (PiQo4) laser tattoo removal system. The expert care team at K.O. Blade & Beauty uses this system to help clients rid themselves of unwanted tattoos.
What Is PicoSure4 Tattoo Removal?
The PicoSure4 is so named due to its unique attributes. The device uses a combination of nanosecond- and picosecond-long pulses. A picosecond is 1,000 times faster than a nanosecond.
During treatment, the nanosecond pulses break up ink particles that are larger or deeper in the skin. Then, the picosecond pulses eliminate the shallower, smaller ink particles.
In addition to using varying pulse lengths, the PicoSure4 utilizes four different wavelengths. This allows the device to effectively break down pigments of different colors and shades.
Due to the power of the PicoSure4 tattoo removal platform, our team can more efficiently remove tattoos, reduce the length of treatment sessions, and minimize skin irritation.
Who Is a Candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?
The PicoSure4 tattoo removal system can be used on tattoos anywhere on the body, as long as they are not located near the eyes. However, the ideal candidate is someone with lighter skin and a healthy immune system.
It is preferable that patients are nonsmokers, but our care team will examine each individual’s unique healthcare history when providing guidance concerning treatment eligibility.
The PicoSure4 laser tattoo removal device is most effective on older tattoos with black ink. With that being said, the four different wavelengths used in the PicoSure4 laser can effectively break down ink pigments ranging from orange to black.
The best way to determine candidacy is to schedule a consultation with the K.O. Blade & Beauty care team. During a short consultation, one of our experienced providers will determine whether you are a good candidate for laser tattoo removal services.
Does PicoSure4 Work on Amateur Tattoos?
PicoSure4 is best suited for professional tattoos. This is because professional tattoos typically have uniform shading and ink distribution throughout. In addition, professional tattoo artists typically use high-quality inks.
Conversely, amateur tattoos may exhibit uneven ink distribution. Color may be harshly packed into the skin in some areas, making it challenging to effectively break up the particles during laser tattoo removal.
However, PicoSure4 can be used to remove or reduce the visibility of amateur tattoos in many instances, especially if the tattoo is older or already beginning to fade. Removing amateur tattoos may require additional treatment sessions, which our provider will discuss with you during a consultation.
What to Expect During the Procedure
During your initial consultation, we will provide you with a detailed set of treatment preparation instructions. Examples include avoiding the use of deodorant or lotions the day of the procedure and minimizing sun exposure in the weeks leading up to the treatment.
When you come in for a laser tattoo removal session, our clinicians will start by thoroughly cleaning the area. Once the area is cleaned, one of our team members will start the laser tattoo removal process. We will carefully apply the PicoSure4 laser to the entire tattoo.
If you are receiving treatment for a small- to medium-sized tattoo, your procedure may take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Larger tattoos may take as long as half an hour to one hour to treat.
In total, you may need anywhere from three to ten sessions in order to complete your laser tattoo removal. Our team will schedule your sessions approximately six to eight weeks apart in order to give your body ample time to heal between each appointment.
Each treatment plan is designed around the unique needs of our patients in order to provide you with optimal results.
When Will I See Results?
As with any procedure, your individual results may vary. However, some patients might notice visible results within a few days after their first session. This is more common if the tattoo was already older and faded.
Fresher tattoos or those that are particularly vibrant may not exhibit dramatic fading for the first several weeks. In rare cases, you may need to undergo multiple sessions before seeing noticeable results, especially if treatment is being performed on a saturated amateur tattoo.
The PicoSure4 is designed to break down ink particles while minimizing the effects on your skin. Therefore, most patients experience no skin damage from the procedure. However, if you have a history of scarring easily, make sure to discuss your concerns with our care team during your consultation.
Laser Tattoo Removal in Newport News, VA
Tattoos are supposed to be a point of pride for their wearers. However, it is perfectly normal to change your mind about a tattoo in the months or years after you receive it. If you have decided that you are no longer in love with your tattoo, then you may be a good candidate for PicoSure4 tattoo removal at K.O. Blade & Beauty.
Conveniently located in Newport News, VA, our team of talented clinicians provides customers throughout the area with safe tattoo removal services. To learn more, we invite you to call our office or book your free consultation online.
