How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Our med spa uses the PicoWay laser by Candela for tattoo removal in Birmingham, MI and East Lansing. PicoWay sends high power in ultra-short pulses that last a picosecond, or one trillionth of a second. This creates a photoacoustic effect. It shatters ink into tiny particles without overheating the skin. Older photothermal lasers heat the skin, which can mean longer downtime and more risk of scarring.
The laser passes beneath the skin to the ink and leaves the outer layer intact. Your tattoo’s color absorbs the energy, and the ink breaks apart. Your lymphatic system then clears the particles over the following weeks.
Benefits of PicoWay Tattoo Removal
- Treats a wide range of ink colors
- Works on a broad range of skin types
- Removes most tattoos, unlike many other lasers
- Less heat, so less downtime and lower scarring risk than photothermal lasers
- Brief treatment sessions
What to Expect: Sessions, Recovery and Results
Your provider applies a topical numbing cream before treatment. Each session is brief. Afterward, the area may look red, swollen or slightly raised for a few days. Keep it clean and out of the sun. Your plan is a series of sessions spaced weeks apart. The number depends on your tattoo’s age, size, colors, darkness and depth.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?
You may be a good candidate if you regret a tattoo, want to fade one before a cover-up, or no longer like a design from another time in your life. Healthy adults with healed tattoos usually qualify. Your provider reviews your skin and ink at your consultation.
Tattoo Removal Near You in Birmingham and East Lansing
Our team also offers spot pigment removal, scar reduction, laser hair removal and more laser and RF treatments. Learn more in our laser tattoo removal overview.
- Birmingham: 856 N Old Woodward Ave, Suite 120, Birmingham, MI 48009. Phone 248-566-5901.
- East Lansing: 2111 Merritt Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823. Phone 517-913-3296.
Hours at both locations: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Review financing and book your tattoo removal consultation.