Have you ever thought about tattoo fading, correction, or removal?

 

As time passes, tattoo colors may fade, leading many people to consider touch-ups or complete removal.

While tattoos are becoming more common, an increasing number of people are also considering removal.

 

However, laser tattoo removal is not a simple procedure.

 

To ensure safe treatment and prevent side effects, it is essential to choose the appropriate wavelength for the tattoo pigment and use high-quality laser equipment.

 

Not all dermatology clinics are equipped with the necessary devices for effective tattoo removal.

Additionally, the choice of laser device varies depending on the pigment type and depth of the tattoo.

 

Selecting an inappropriate wavelength or energy level can not only result in insufficient removal but also increase the risk of side effects such as scarring.

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1. Choosing the Right Laser for Tattoo Removal

 

PicoSure, PicoPlus, PicoWay

Some of the most advanced and high-end pico laser devices for tattoo removal include:

• PicoSure
• PicoPlus
• PicoWay

The most important factor in tattoo removal is "pulse duration" (irradiation time).

 

The shorter the pulse duration, the more efficiently the laser can break down the pigment particles, making the procedure safer and minimizing the risk of side effects.

 

Traditional nanosecond lasers (Q-switched lasers) are relatively affordable and are still widely used in many dermatology clinics.

 

However, for tattoo removal, it is ideal to use picosecond lasers, which operate at an even shorter pulse duration.

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2. Multicolored Tattoos Require at Least Two Different Wavelengths

For single-color tattoos (e.g., lettering tattoos), removal is relatively simple and can often be achieved with a single wavelength.

However, multicolored tattoos, such as traditional irezumi, contain different pigments deposited at varying depths, making it impossible to completely remove them with a single wavelength.

In fact, using only one wavelength increases the risk of side effects, so it is essential to combine at least two or more wavelengths for effective and safe removal.

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3. Appropriate Laser Wavelengths for Each Pigment

 

Tattoo Pigments and Their Corresponding Laser Wavelengths Tattoo Pigment Optimal Laser Wavelengths Black 694nm, 755nm, 1064nm Green 694nm, 755nm Blue 694nm, 755nm, 1064nm Red 532nm Orange 532nm Yellow 532nm Purple 694nm, 755nm White/Skin Tone 10600nm

Commonly Used Laser Devices for Tattoo Removal

• 532nm = KTP or Nd:YAG Half Laser
• 694nm = Ruby Laser
• 755nm = Alexandrite Laser
• 1064nm = Nd:YAG Laser
• 10600nm = CO₂ Laser

 

As shown in the table above, each tattoo pigment requires a specific laser wavelength for effective removal.

 

For multicolored tattoos, it is common to combine multiple wavelengths, such as 532nm, 694nm, 755nm, and 1064nm, to achieve better results.

 

In particular, red and yellow pigments tend to be more challenging to remove completely.

Scat tissue covered tattoo

 

Additionally, white and skin-colored pigments (such as nude, white, or tan) do not contain melanin, meaning they do not respond to standard pigment-targeting lasers.

 

For these colors, it is necessary to use a 10600nm CO₂ laser or an Erbium laser instead.

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4. What Are the Side Effects of Tattoo Removal?

 

(1) Hypopigmentation (Partial Pigment Residue)

In the photo below, it may look like the tattoo is fading, but in reality, only certain pigments have been removed. This occurred because only one wavelength was used for a multicolored tattoo, resulting in partial pigment removal while other colors remained.

When looking at the image, it may appear that the tattoo is fading, but in reality, only one wavelength was used on a multicolored tattoo, resulting in partial pigment removal.

When hypopigmentation (uneven fading) occurs, the remaining pigments become more difficult to remove, making complete removal more challenging.

This is why choosing the appropriate wavelengths from the beginning is crucial for effective and even tattoo removal.

 

(2) Scarring (Hypertrophic or Atrophic Scars)

 

The photo below shows a side effect caused by excessive energy levels during tattoo removal.

Lasers remove tattoos by breaking down pigments and triggering an inflammatory response.

 

However, if the laser energy is too high, it can worsen inflammation and cause excessive tissue damage, increasing the risk of scar formation.

In particular, using a nanosecond laser instead of a picosecond laser increases the risk of unintended tissue damage.

 

For safer treatment, it is recommended to use a picosecond laser whenever possible.

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Summary

✔ Choosing the appropriate wavelength for each tattoo pigment is essential.

✔ Multicolored tattoos require a combination of at least two different wavelengths.

✔ Using a picosecond laser enhances safety and reduces the risk of side effects.

✔ Incorrect energy settings can lead to pigment residue or scarring.

Tattoo removal is not a simple procedure.

 

It is highly recommended to undergo treatment under the care of an experienced doctor with the right equipment to ensure safe and effective results.