Beverly Hills patients ask, “Does Picosure laser tattoo removal hurt?”

Everyone has different reasons for getting a tattoo. The decision is personal and the design is often sentimental. However, sentiments and meanings can change. With change comes tattoo regret. Approximately 25% of people admit to regretting a tattoo. Many turn to hiding the tattoo behind clothing or even makeup. For patients in Beverly Hills, Dr. Dennis Dass offers tattoo removal using the advanced Picosure laser. Laser tattoo removal successfully removes unwanted tattoos with minimal side effects.

How laser tattoo removal works

Tattoo ink goes deep into the skin. It does not simply sit on the surface. State-of-the-art technology is needed to effectively remove the ink from the skin. Advanced lasers break apart the ink particles allowing your body to naturally eliminate the tattoo. Dr. Dass utilizes the PicoSure laser which uses PressureWave technology. This technology delivers ultra-short pulses of energy to the targeted area. Since the pulses are so fast, they cause a change in pressure which breaks up the ink into tiny particles. The lymphatic system absorbs the particles and allows the body to naturally eliminate them. Only the targeted ink is treated. The surrounding tissue is unharmed. The PressureWave technology is the key to effective tattoo removal with the PicoSure laser.

What to expect

If you begin to regret your tattoo or no longer have the same attachment to it, it is time to research your options for removal. A tattoo does not have to leave a permanent mark on your body. Patients considering laser tattoo removal need to have a consultation with Dr. Dass. He will address your questions and concerns including “is tattoo removal effective” and “does tattoo removal hurt?”

Laser tattoo removal effectively and permanently removes the tattoo ink. A series of treatments is needed to achieve optimal results. The treatments are generally scheduled 6-8 weeks apart. A single treatment for a small tattoo takes about 10 minutes. Larger tattoos require more time. Improvement continues with each treatment session as the tattoo fades from view. The number of sessions needed varies from patient to patient and depends upon factors such as:

• Ink colors
• Tattoo size
• Location on the body
• Lifestyle habits

Many patients have compared the discomfort of the tattoo removal to that of the actual tattooing process. If you were able to sit through having a tattoo applied, you will be able to sit through the removal. PicoSure uses pressure changes and laser energy to break down the tattoo pigment. Discomfort is relative among patients depending on tolerance levels, but anesthesia is not needed. For patients who have sensitive skin or a lower threshold for discomfort, speak with the doctor about possible numbing agents to maintain your comfort throughout the procedure.

Side effects and post care

You will be given post care instructions after your laser tattoo removal treatment. Downtime is not necessary. Ice packs may be used to soothe the skin and any lingering discomfort. Antibiotic cream and a bandage may help protect the treatment area. Mild side effects are possible. They may include swelling, pinpoint bleeding, or possible blistering. If you experience any side effects, treat the area as a mild burn. It is important to protect the skin. Do not pop the blisters. Avoid shaving and sun exposure in the treatment area until the skin has fully healed.

Recommendations for successful treatments

To ensure you get the best results with your laser tattoo removal treatments, it is important to follow your physician’s instructions prior to, throughout, and after your scheduled treatments. Always remember to avoid tanning of any kind. Tanning products, tanning beds, and regular sun exposure should be avoided when you are undergoing laser treatments. Tanning increases the melanin or color in your skin. The laser for tattoo removal is designed to break down pigment. If your skin is darker than normal, the laser may have trouble selecting the proper color to break down. This may result in your physician using lower settings to avoid damaging your skin. The treatment may be less effective meaning additional treatments may be necessary.

A tattoo does not have to be a permanent mark on your skin. If you have tattoo regret, contact Dr. Dennis Dass in Beverly Hills to learn more about Picosure laser tattoo removal. Call (855) 496-4646.