Method

When removing tattoos and permanent make-up, the high energy of pigment lasers is directed at the pigmented areas of skin in extremely short pulses (below the so-called “thermal relaxation time”). The target pigment is destroyed or shattered by the high-energy laser light. Because the exposure times are extremely short, modern devices prevent the resulting heat from spreading to the surrounding structures, which are therefore largely spared.

The pigment fragments produced by the treatment are taken up by certain cells (macrophages) and carried away via the lymphatic system. During treatment, the skin is cooled with very cold air from a cryo generator, which greatly reduces the pain of the procedure.

Laser compared with other methods

In principle, tattoos can also be removed by surgical excision, skin abrasion, waterjet cutting or chemical agents. However, laser treatment is the gentlest method of tattoo removal for the skin and either removes tattoos completely or lightens them significantly in preparation for cover-up designs.

Treatment plan

The appropriate laser is selected according to the colour of the tattoo and the particular characteristics of the skin. As a rule, 6–10 sessions at intervals of 8–12 weeks are required until the tattoo has been satisfactorily removed.

Aftercare

• ◆Immediately after each laser treatment, the treated area is cooled with a cryo pack for a few minutes.
• ◆We then apply a special dressing, which should be worn for 2 days.
• ◆Continue aftercare with an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic cream.
• ◆Use reliable UV protection (at least SPF 50) for at least 6 weeks.

Possible complications

• ◆Burns
• ◆Temporary or permanent pigment changes (hyper- or hypopigmentation)
• ◆Inflammation
• ◆Scarring
• ◆Eye injuries