Tattoo Removal

Overview

Tattoo removal uses Q-switched nanosecond or picosecond laser to finely shatter tattoo ink particles embedded in the dermis, inducing the body's immune cells (macrophages) to phagocytose and eliminate them. Picosecond lasers fragment ink more efficiently than nanosecond lasers, often requiring fewer sessions. Multiple wavelengths are used for different ink colors.

Mechanism

The laser delivers ultra-short, high-energy pulses that are selectively absorbed by tattoo ink particles. The rapid thermal expansion causes the particles to fragment into smaller pieces that can be engulfed by dermal macrophages and transported to lymph nodes for elimination. Picosecond pulses create additional photoacoustic effects that shatter particles more finely than nanosecond pulses. Different wavelengths target different colors: 1064nm for black/dark blue, 532nm for red/orange, 755nm for green/blue.

Effects

Progressive fading and removal of tattoo ink, effective treatment across multiple ink colors with appropriate wavelengths, and gradual restoration of natural skin appearance.

Duration

5-15 sessions at 6-8 week intervals; complete removal depends on ink type, color, depth, and density; amateur tattoos respond faster than professional ones

Recovery

Immediate whitening (frosting) of treated area, followed by redness, swelling, and possible blistering for 3-7 days. Crusting for 7-14 days. Wound care with ointment recommended. Sun avoidance for 4+ weeks. Full healing between sessions.

Side Effects

Temporary whitening, swelling, blistering, and crusting. Risk of scarring, hypo- or hyperpigmentation. Ghost image (faint outline remaining) possible. Some ink colors (yellow, white, fluorescent) are extremely difficult to remove. Complete removal is not always achievable.

Price Range

50,000-300,000 KRW per session depending on tattoo size

Target Audience

Those wanting to remove unwanted tattoos, those seeking partial fading before a cover-up tattoo, and those with tattoo regret seeking gradual ink elimination.

Devices (2)