If you are looking into laser tattoo removal, you might have encountered the PicoWay laser system. But if you haven’t and want to know more about what PicoWay is, you have come to the right place.
PicoWay is one of the most advanced laser devices known for its precision in removing unwanted tattoos.
It targets and removes all ink colours on the spectrum and is safe for all skin types, including darker skin types.
But how does PicoWay work, and what makes it so effective in removing tattoos?
Our tattoo removal experts break it down for you.
If you are ready to discuss PicoWay laser tattoo removal in person, contact our London studio to book an appointment.
PicoWay laser treatment – safe and effective tattoo removal
There are so many different laser treatments promising to fade and remove tattoos.
However, not all have the right technology to efficiently and safely remove all tattoo ink colours and sizes and treat a range of skin types.
Luckily, this is where PicoWay shines above the rest.
Picosecond laser technology
Some laser treatment devices use heat to break down tattoo ink into tiny particles. While this can work, it also carries a higher risk of damaging the healthy surrounding skin and, in some instances, leading to scarring.
This is where PicoWay is different.
PicoWay is a picosecond laser, which means instead of using heat to target tattoo ink, it uses ultra-short bursts of laser light energy.
This light energy is measured in trillionths of a second.
The ultra-short pulse durations provide high peak power. This means that the light energy is fast and efficient in precisely targeting the tattoo ink. In the long run, this means that you often need fewer treatment sessions than other laser devices.
This also means faster fading or removal of tattoos without causing any impact on the surrounding skin.
See our dedicated blog on how Picoway laser works for more information.
Removes all tattoo colours
Unlike most older tattoo removal laser devices, the PicoWay device is versatile. It can treat all colours on the spectrum, even blues and greens, which are known for being difficult to remove.
So, if you have a complex tattoo design that uses multiple colours, PicoWay is one of the best options for removing it without any hassle or damage to your skin.
How does it do this? Easy, we can use multiple wavelengths to treat various tattoo ink colours. This enables the laser to target and shatter the ink pigments in those different colours. Here is an overview of the wavelengths we use:
- 1064nm – ideal for dark colours such as back
- 730nm – best for blue and green ink
- 532nm – great for red, yellow and orange inks
Safe for all skin types
This is another benefit of the PicoWay laser system that many other laser treatments lack. The PicoWay laser is safe to use on all skin types, including dark skin tones, which are difficult to treat with other lasers.
Traditional laser treatments risk causing pigmentation issues when used on darker skin types. PicoWay is different because it uses a 1064 wavelength, which bypasses the melanin in the skin, and instead focuses on targeting the ink.
What can you expect from PicoWay treatments for tattoo removal?
Consultation
The first step is to meet with one of our laser treatment experts. They will discuss your tattoo and whether you want to fade or entirely remove it. We will also look at your skin type, size of the tattoo and colours in the tattoo to build a tailored treatment plan. This will include how many treatment sessions you will need and the cost.
PicoWay laser treatment sessions
Your laser expert will cleanse and remove any excess debris from your skin to prepare it for treatment.
We often get the question, “Does laser tattoo removal hurt?” The answer is yes, it can hurt as much as getting a tattoo in the first place. The good news is that each treatment session is only short. Small tattoos can take a few seconds per session, whereas larger and more complex tattoos can take 10-20 minutes.
We do not use a numbing cream on the tattoo. This is because it can change the tattoo’s texture and slow down the removal process. Instead, we use a cryo machine to ensure you feel minimal discomfort. This will blow extremely cold air onto the skin to help protect it.
The PicoWay laser device will fire ultra-short energy pulses of laser light into the tattoo. This action helps to break down the tattoo ink into much smaller particles. Your body’s natural processes will flush the tiny particles out through your immune system over the next few weeks.
How many PicoWay treatments will I need to remove a tattoo?
It takes more than one laser treatment session to fade or entirely remove a tattoo. You will need multiple treatment sessions spaced weeks apart. During your consultation, your laser expert will discuss how many Picoway sessions you need to get your desired result.
On average, you will need:
- 2-6 tattoo removal treatments to fade a tattoo
- 6-10 sessions to fully remove your unwanted tattoos
Each session is spaced around ten weeks apart to ensure that your skin has enough time to heal and that your body processes the broken-down ink particles.
Book your PicoWay Laser consultation.
If you want to find out more about how PicoWay laser offers fast, safe, and effective tattoo removal, contact our team. We only offer PicoWay laser tattoo removal at our London studio.
You can also check out our PicoSure laser treatment, which we offer in Bristol, London and Hove.