As time goes on, it’s not unusual to change your tastes and preferences about the way you look and the image you want to project. As a result, you may decide that you regret a tattoo that seemed like a good idea at another time in your life.

You’re not alone if you’re looking for a way to erase an unwanted tattoo. About 25% of people with tattoos say they regret getting at least one of them.

If tattoo regret is making you uncomfortable in your own skin, you may benefit from laser tattoo removal. This advanced technology can help erase the traces of your past and restore your skin as closely as possible to its natural appearance.

You’ll achieve the best results from laser tattoo removal when you work with an experienced provider. In her private practice in Shenandoah and Houston, Texas, laser tattoo removal specialist Winnie King, MD, specializes in using the PicoSure® laser tattoo removal system to deliver optimal results for patients experiencing tattoo regret. When administered by an expert like Dr. King, the PicoSure system can deliver the results you desire safely and effectively.

PicoSure laser tattoo removal technology

The PicoSure laser tattoo removal system uses the most advanced laser technology available for removing tattoos. This FDA-approved system delivers short bursts of pulsed energy in a picosecond (one trillionth of a second).

PicoSure’s proprietary PressureWave™ technology converts thermal energy into pressure that targets ink particles. When the PicoSure is focused on the tattoo, it shatters targeted ink deposits into tiny dust-like particles.

Since the particles of ink are so small, they are naturally absorbed and eliminated from your body by your immune system. The result causes a gradual lightening of the tattoo ink. Since the energy is delivered swiftly and precisely, PicoSure doesn’t harm the surrounding skin during treatment.

PicoSure is successful in eliminating even stubborn dark blue, green, and black inks. The system also removes previously treated tattoos that weren’t successfully erased with past treatments.

Typical PicoSure laser tattoo removal procedure

There’s little preparation necessary for PicoSure laser tattoo removal. This in-office procedure is fast and relatively painless. A 10-minute treatment is often tolerable for most patients.

PicoSure produces a sensation similar to that involved in getting a tattoo. Some patients describe the feeling as being similar to snapping a rubber band against your skin.

Depending on the location of your tattoo and your sensitivity to discomfort, you may benefit from having topical anesthesia applied to the targeted tattoo before your treatment begins.

Here is what you can expect during a PicoSure procedure:

• You wear shields to protect your eyes during the treatment.
• Before you receive your first treatment, the laser is tested on your skin to determine the most effective setting.
• The laser is held close to the tattoo to allow pulses of intense light to pass through the top layers of your skin.
• The energy is absorbed by the tattoo pigment.

Results from PicoSure laser tattoo removal

You can expect to see a “frosting” or slight whitening of the treated skin. This effect dwindles after the treatment. You may also experience redness and mild swelling.

Applying an ice pack to the treated area can provide relief from discomfort and swelling. Caring for the treated area requires applying an antibiotic cream and protecting it with a bandage.

Until the treated area completely heals, you must use sunscreen with SPF30 or higher to protect it. Dr. King provides further instructions based on your individual treatment plan.

Length of treatment with PicoSure laser tattoo removal

The number of PicoSure treatments you require to eradicate your tattoo depends on factors such as the size and location of your tattoo, the age of your tattoo, ink type and colors used on the tattoo, and your lifestyle habits.

It typically takes between four and eight weeks for your body to absorb the ink particles after a PicoSure procedure, but everyone’s program and length of treatment are unique.

While the number of treatments you need depends on the type of tattoo you are treating, 4-10 treatments, spaced 6-8 weeks apart, are typically necessary to remove most tattoos. While the process may seem lengthy, the good news is that the results you achieve are permanent.

Find out more about laser tattoo removal and how it can relieve your tattoo regret. Call our Shenandoah or Houston office today to schedule a consultation.