Frequently Asked Questions about Tattoo Removal

What is PicoSure?

PicoSure is the latest advancement in laser technology for safe and effective tattoo removal. Remove tattoos faster than ever before with the industry’s first and only picosecond laser!

How does laser tattoo removal work?

During PicoSure treatments, laser energy is gently delivered to the tattoo, targeting the ink and shattering it into tiny particles. The particles are then eliminated through by the body’s immune system, resulting in a lightening of the tattoo ink.

How does PicoSure compare to the older tattoo removal technology?

PicoSure uses the latest technology to remove difficult ink colors by delivering ultra-short picosecond pulses of energy to the tattoo. The pulses create a photomechanical effect, or PressureWave™, that targets ink while avoiding other skin tissues. Unlike traditional Q-switched lasers which break pigment into pebble-like granules, PressureWave shatters the ink into tiny dust-like particles which are more easily eliminated by the body. This results in clearer skin in fewer treatments with less recovery.

What type of tattoos can be removed with PicoSure?

PicoSure can be used to remove a variety of tattoo colors and types. Difficult ink colors, such as blue and green, and previously treated tattoos can effectively be removed with PicoSure.

How many treatments will I need?

With PicoSure, you will see better results in fewer treatments. Schedule a consultation with our practitioners to have them examine your tattoo and recommend a realistic treatment regime to help you achieve the best results.

Will I see results after the first treatment?

Every patient and tattoo responds differently. Some patients see improved clearance after the first treatment, while others may take a few treatments to see results. Following the recommended post-treatment protocols will likely improve the results and reduce the chance of adverse side effects.

What are the limitations after treatment?

We recommend that patients limit their physical activity for the first 24-48 hours to avoid irritating or harming the treated area. After that, patients can go about their days normally, however sun exposure should be limited until the treatment area is completely healed.

How much does PicoSure tattoo removal cost?

The cost of laser tattoo removal depends on several factors, including the size of tattoo and the number of treatments it will require. After your consultation, the practitioner will provide you a price estimate for the treatment series.

Can I lighten the tattoo to have another one put on top?

Tattoos can be lightened in preparation for a cover-up tattoo. We recommend that you wait six weeks between your last treatment and when you have the new tattoo completed.

Does tattoo removal hurt?

Tahoe Tattoo Removal is now the only tattoo removal clinic in the region to offer painless tattoo removal. This is important because tattoo removal is often credited with being more painful than actually getting tattooed.

I got my tattoo one week ago. Can I have it removed right now?

Tattoo regret can happen at any time, sometimes as early as the day after a tattoo is completed. Because your skin needs time to heal from the tattoo procedure, we require each patient to wait at least six weeks to start the removal process.