If you have a tattoo that you no longer want, there are effective cosmetic dermatology treatments available, such as the QS ND YAG laser, which aims to remove tattoos without leaving scars.
The QS ND YAG laser is a state-of-the-art treatment that works by applying powerful photo-acoustic laser energy in very short pulses to the unwanted tattoo. It is also effective in removing brown (age) spots caused by sun exposure. This type of laser treatment is non-invasive and can safely remove tattoos, regardless of color or size, whilst minimizing the risks of scarring or loss of skin color (hypopigmentation).
How Do I Prepare for Treatment?
Before your treatment, you will attend a consultation with your dermatologist, so they can evaluate your needs and check if you are a good candidate for treatment, based on your overall health and other factors. Your dermatologist will let you know how treatment works and the results you can expect. Multiple sessions may be required to successfully remove a tattoo. They will also carry out a patch test to test your skin’s reaction to the laser and to determine the most effective energy level and wavelength of laser light required to achieve the best results. This will depend on the age, density, and color of the ink.
To prepare for laser tattoo removal, you should avoid excessive sun exposure for 2 weeks before treatment and avoid taking any photosensitive medications. You will also be required to shave any hair around the tattoo.
The Process
For the treatment, you will be given a pair of laser safety glasses to protect your eyes. For large tattoos, numbing cream may be applied beforehand to help reduce discomfort. Your skin may also be cooled using a CryoAir machine, which blows cold air on the skin to help soothe the skin and keep it cool during treatment.
The laser works by passing pulses of intense light over the tattoo. As the pulses penetrate through the top layer of skin, they are absorbed by the tattoo ink particles trapped in the dermis of the skin. When the ink particles absorb the energy, they break up into tiny fragments (without causing damage to the skin). The body’s immune system then works to remove the tiny ink fragments through natural healing processes, resulting in the tattoo fading over time. At each additional laser treatment, the ink is broken down more and more until the tattoo is no longer visible.
Treatment on smaller tattoos can take as little as 5 minutes, but larger tattoos will require more pulses and more time to remove them.
What Aftercare is Required?
A soothing cream and dressing will be applied to the treated area immediately following the laser treatment in order to protect it. You will also be given aftercare advice to follow to achieve maximum results and avoid complications. This can include:
- Gently washing and dry the treated area using a mild soap
- Applying a thin layer of barrier cream, such as petroleum jelly
- Protecting the skin with high-factor sunscreen and avoiding excessive UV exposure
- Avoiding strenuous exercise for 48 hours or until swelling and tenderness in the area have subsided. Exercise may cause additional swelling or irritation to the skin.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions required to remove a tattoo can vary depending on:
- The color of the ink
- The age of the tattoo
- The density of the ink
- The size of the tattoo
Your dermatologist will let you know what to expect, but on average, the number of treatments needed can range from 4-12 treatments. Laser treatments are typically recommended 6-12 weeks apart to allow the ink particles to disperse and the skin to heal between treatments.
What Results Can I Expect?
The laser is designed to remove tattoos with minimal risk of skin discoloration and without leaving scarring. If the tattoo already features scarring, this scarring is likely to remain. However, there are effective treatments available to help resurface scarred or damaged skin.
Cosmetic Dermatologist Near Me in Miami, Fl
If you have a tattoo that you want to be removed for good, contact Children’s Skin Center Pediatric and Adult Dermatology for the expert care you deserve. Our experienced, board-certified dermatologists specialize in removing tattoos of all sizes and colors using our QS ND YAG Laser.
In addition to tattoo removal, we also provide a wide range of advanced, approved, affordable cosmetic and medical treatments to help your skin look and feel its best.
To schedule an appointment or learn about a QS ND YAG laser treatment to remove tattoos, call or text us at (305) 669-6555 or contact us at one of our convenient locations throughout South Florida.
