A side-by-side comparison of the three FDA-cleared laser platforms used for ink clearance. Picosecond and Q-switched technology explained, including the treatment of notoriously stubborn colors.
Laser tattoo removal works through photoacoustic shock. The laser delivers energy to ink particles trapped in the dermis, the energy is absorbed, and the particles shatter into fragments small enough to be cleared by the body's lymphatic system. The faster the energy is delivered, the more efficiently the ink shatters. This is the difference between picosecond and nanosecond platforms.
A nanosecond pulse is one billionth of a second. A picosecond pulse is one trillionth, a thousand times faster. The shorter pulse delivers higher peak power without depositing as much heat into the surrounding tissue, which means more efficient ink clearance with less risk of scarring or pigmentary change. Picosecond technology was a step change for the category and remains the standard of care.
Color matters. Black and dark blue inks absorb most laser wavelengths well. Green, light blue, yellow, and white pigments are notoriously stubborn and require specific wavelengths. A single-wavelength laser cannot clear a multi-color tattoo completely. The serious provider operates multiple wavelengths and selects them based on the ink colors present.
A provider operating only a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser can clear a black-ink tattoo with patience, but cannot clear a multi-color tattoo to satisfaction. A provider operating only a single-wavelength picosecond laser will face the same problem with greens or yellows. The serious provider has multiple wavelengths available and selects them based on the colors present in the ink.
Perfect Body Laser & Aesthetics® operates picosecond and Q-switched laser platforms across multiple wavelengths, allowing the team to clear the full visible ink spectrum, including the stubborn colors that single-wavelength providers cannot adequately address. Every tattoo removal candidate receives an in-person Free Customized Treatment Plan that includes ink color identification, depth assessment, and a written session count tailored to the specific tattoo.