PicoWay Laser Tattoo Removal London

Scarring is uncommon with modern laser treatment performed by trained clinicians with proper spacing and aftercare. Risk rises if you pick blisters/scabs, have infection or pre-existing tattoo scarring. We minimise risk with a patch test, conservative settings, 6–8 week intervals and strict aftercare.

Most professional black tattoos need 6-10 sessions; amateur or faded tattoos 3-6; multi-colour designs (green/blue/yellow) often 8-12+. Results depend on ink density, colour mix, depth, body location, skin tone and immune response. Sessions are typically spaced 6-8 weeks apart.

Laser tattoo removal is the safest and most effective option for most tattoos including black, red, and multicolored designs. Other methods like surgical excision or dermabrasion may be used for specific cases but generally carry higher risks of scarring or complications. For a detailed overview, see Mayo Clinic’s guide to tattoo removal.

It feels like fast elastic-band snaps. Sessions are brief and we use cooling and, when appropriate, topical anaesthetic. Expect temporary redness or swelling that settles within hours to days with standard aftercare.

Excision removes the tattooed skin under local anaesthetic and is best for very small designs or when laser isn’t suitable. It provides immediate removal but leaves a permanent scar and may need staged procedures for larger areas. Medium–large tattoos are usually better suited to laser.

Many black-ink tattoos fade to barely visible or clear fully. Stubborn colours, dense ink and deeper placement can leave faint ‘ghosting’. The laser can fade ink but won’t remove texture from pre-existing scars. We set expectations after a consultation and patch test.

Picosecond systems deliver ultra-short pulses that emphasise photo-mechanical pigment shattering; Q-switched (nanosecond) also works well. Outcomes hinge on matching wavelength to ink (e.g., 1064 nm for black, 532 nm for red) and clinician expertise. Both can be effective when settings are personalised.

Typical per-session guide: Small from £67, Medium from £98, Large from £175. Total cost depends on sessions required (ink colours, density, depth, location, skin tone). Packages and 0% instalments can help spread costs. You’ll receive a tailored quote after consultation and patch test.

Right after treatment: whitening (‘frosting’), redness, mild swelling; occasional small blisters. Over days: scabbing/itching; over weeks: gradual fading as pigment clears. Temporary darkening/lightening can occur (more common on darker skin tones) and usually improves with time and sun protection.

Keep the area clean, dry and protected for several days. Don’t pick blisters or scabs. Avoid pools, saunas and sun until healed; then use broad-spectrum SPF. Reduce friction/exercise on the area for 24–48 hours. Contact the clinic if redness worsens, pus appears or you develop a fever.

PMU can be treated, but pigments may shift colour (e.g., orange/grey) before fading. Brows often need multiple, conservative sessions to protect hair and skin; spacing is crucial. A patch test near the area helps set safe parameters, especially on darker skin tones.

0–48 hrs: frosting, redness, swelling; possible small blisters. Days 3–10: scabbing/peeling, itching. Weeks 2–6: gradual fading, skin normalises. 6–8+ weeks: reassess and plan the next session if indicated.

There’s no single ‘best’ for everyone. The right wavelength/device mix plus clinician expertise and safe intervals matter most. Example: 1064 nm suits black ink across Fitzpatrick I–VI; 532 nm targets reds; additional wavelengths help with greens/blues.

Costs reflect specialist devices, maintenance, safety protocols, clinician time and the fact that most tattoos need multiple sessions. Reputable clinics include consultation, patch test, tailored settings and aftercare support. Packages/instalments can make budgeting easier.

When performed by trained clinicians with appropriate wavelengths and spacing, it has a strong safety profile across all skin tones. Expected effects include redness, swelling, blistering and temporary pigment changes; scarring is uncommon. We delay treatment in cases like pregnancy, active infection or recent sunburn.

It can, but it’s rare with correct parameters and aftercare. Risks rise with inappropriate settings, sessions too close together, sun exposure or picking the area. Patch testing and patient aftercare are key to keeping risk low.