Tattoos mean different things to people who get them. They can be a form of self-expression, love, motivation, or commemoration. No matter how sentimental a tattoo may be, some people arrive at a point in their lives when they wish to have these marks removed from their bodies.
If you found this article after using the keywords “tattoo removal + Singapore,” then you (or maybe someone you are doing this search for) are one of the many Singaporeans who have regretted getting a tattoo. You will be relieved to learn that there exists a procedure that can help you remove that once cherished tattoo.
What is the most effective procedure to remove tattoos?
According to 1Aesthetics, despite the number of suggested procedures for tattoo removal online, only laser tattoo removal in Singapore does an effective job in removing tattoos. However, it is not just any type of laser. It should be a Picosecond Q-switched Nd: YAG laser.
What is a Picosecond Q-switched Nd: YAG laser?
A Picosecond Q-switched Nd: YAG laser is a type of laser technology that works to remove pigments. The Picosecond laser is an improved version of the traditional Q-switched laser. This type of laser was specifically developed to remove tattoo pigments.
What is the difference between a Picosecond Q-switched Nd: YAG laser and a Q-switched laser?
The difference between a Picosecond Q-switched Nd: YAG laser and a Q-switched laser is their ability to release laser beams in a short span of time. A Q-switched laser can release laser beams in nanosecond (billionth of a second) intervals, which makes them inferior to Picosecond lasers that can fire laser beams within one trillionth of a second.
How do Picosecond Q-switched Nd: YAG lasers work to remove tattoos from the skin?
Picosecond lasers work by emitting energy-charged laser beams that shatter the pigments embedded in the skin. The ink particles are turned into powder-like substance as soon as the highly charged laser beams hit their surface. This substance is then absorbed by the body, processed by the immune system, and released as waste.
How many sessions are needed to remove a tattoo?
The number of sessions required for the complete removal of a tattoo will depend on a lot of factors, such as size and its pigment composition, which we will discuss shortly. With Picosecond lasers, in general, about 80% to 90% improvement can be seen in 4 to 5 sessions.
Stages of Laser tattoo removal are shown on the image below:
What are the factors that contribute to the effective removal of tattoos?
Aside from using the right type of laser, a doctor’s skill and experience also play a vital role in effective tattoo removal. Likewise, patients need to understand that the composition of the tattoo and even skin colour also contribute to the efficacy of a tattoo removal procedure.
For instance, black ink is easier removed as compared to blue, yellow, and red inks. Tattoos that are multicoloured will require different types of lasers and special wavelengths to be erased. Tattoos done on darker skin will be harder to remove. Dark skin has the tendency to soak in more laser beams, making it weak and unable to deliver its full power to shatter the pigments. Hence, Picosecond lasers are highly recommended for tattoo removal on patients who have darker skin.
When it comes to the size of the tattoo, of course, the smaller tattoos are easier to remove as compared to large ones.
Is the procedure painful?
Lasers are powerful machines that release heat-charged laser beams, so the answer to this question is yes. Patients can expect to feel pain or discomfort during the procedure. However, your doctor will ensure that specific measures are taken in order to lessen the pain during your procedure. Some practices include the administration of local anaesthesia to the treatment areas, using of coolers during the laser treatment, and application of ice to the skin to alleviate the pain.
Is there a need for downtime after a laser tattoo removal?
Definitely. The days following the laser tattoo removal are crucial for the skin to heal. Patients are advised to at least take some 3 days to a week of time off for recovery.
Are there risks and side effects after the procedure?
Patients can expect to see redness and mild scabbing on their skin after the procedure. There is also a risk of developing scars, hyperpigmentation, or hypopigmentation. The skin may also appear to be a little drier after being exposed to a laser.
What are tips for aftercare following a tattoo removal procedure?
Antibiotics and topical anti-inflammatory steroid creams may be prescribed by the doctor for patients during the recovery period. The skin is also sensitive as it heals, so patients should stay out of the sun and/or use proper sun protection so as not to delay the skin’s recuperation.
How much will a session of tattoo removal cost in Singapore?
Tattoo removal using Picosecond laser will cost roughly about $700 to $1,500 per session.
1Aesthetics, Medical & Surgery located at: #14-90 The Central, 8 Eu Tong Sen St, Tower 1, 059818
Phone: +65 66125173
