Tattooing is currently a very popular and widespread aesthetic practice. It can also be used for the restoration of the appearance of previous trauma or surgical procedures. However, many people eventually change their minds over time and decide to remove a tattoo. According to data from the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), 50% of those who have gotten a tattoo wish to remove it within five years, while 70% regret having done it.
At Skin and Hair, tattoo removal is performed using Pico Laser and, more rarely, Trivantage Laser. Older tattoo removal methods (such as surgical excision, cryotherapy, and dermabrasion) were not only painful and laborious but also carried a high risk of scarring and keloid formation.
The Discovery Pico Plus Laser by Quanta System is the most advanced and effective laser worldwide for treating hyperpigmentation disorders and removing tattoos, and it is FDA-approved. It gets its name from its ultra-short pulse duration (picoseconds = 10⁻¹² seconds), which is 1,000 times shorter than that of previous-generation nanosecond lasers. The Pico Laser delivers energy in microscopic beams of light beneath the epidermis.
Its mechanism of action is based on the combination of selective photothermolysis and the “photoacoustic effect,” breaking down pigments (skin melanin and tattoo ink) into microscopic particles, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. At the same time, the surrounding skin remains unharmed. The key difference from previous lasers is that Pico Lasers act primarily through the photoacoustic effect, with a significantly reduced thermal component—this enhances effectiveness, especially in more resistant tattoos.
Indications for use, upon recommendation by the treating dermatologist, include:
- melasma and dark spots,
- post-traumatic or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- tattoo removal,
- removal of semi-permanent makeup (eyebrow tattoos)
The duration of treatment and the number of sessions required are personalized based on each individual case.
Before the treatment, our dermatologist Dr. S. Theocharis performs a full dermatological examination, during which he evaluates the age of the tattoo, its type, and color.
the quality of the pigment, the anatomy of the area, and the skin type. The most suitable time for treatment is during the winter months.
With Pico Laser, tattoo removal is achieved:
with absolute precision and effectiveness
safely, without unwanted skin injuries or scarring
with complete targeting of all colors, even the most intense
with flexibility, as the Pico Laser emits high pulse energy at various wavelengths, making it effective for every type and depth of pigment, as well as every skin type
It is also worth noting that Pico Laser can be used to repair pigmented lesions, scars, and marks that may have resulted from previous tattoo removal attempts using other methods.
The Trivantage Laser belongs to the Q-switched laser family, which operates based on the principle of selective photothermolysis. The laser beam is absorbed by the chromophores in the tattoo, which are fragmented, phagocytosed, and eliminated through the lymphatic system. At our clinic, tattoo removal can also be performed using the Q-switched laser (Alex-Trivantage), which features three handpieces: Q-switched Alexandrite 755 nm, Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm, and Q-switched KTP 532 nm. This system is capable of targeting all ink colors. The doctor will evaluate each patient’s case and recommend the most suitable device and the number of sessions required for complete tattoo removal.
Some key features and benefits of the Trivantage Laser include:
Multifunctionality: Designed to treat various skin irregularities including freckles, dark spots, tattoos, vascular lesions, and more.
Multi-wavelength Technology: Utilizes different wavelengths to adapt to a variety of pigment-related skin conditions.
Precision and Flexibility: Allows the specialist to adjust intensity and pulse according to the needs of each case, achieving optimized results.
Minimal Downtime: Treatment with the Trivantage Laser usually offers a quick recovery time, allowing patients to resume daily activities shortly after.
Safe Use: The modern technology of the Trivantage Laser provides a high level of safety without causing significant risks or complications.
It is important to note that patients must also be consistent in attending their scheduled appointments, following the dermatologist’s instructions closely.
- The color of the tattoo
- The type of pigment used
- The age of the tattoo
- The type of tattoo (professional, amateur, traumatic, medical)
- The anatomical area where it is located
- The depth of the pigment
- The quality of the skin
- For the first 24 hours, it is recommended to apply a cold compress or cool air to the treated area to reduce discomfort and inflammation.
- For the following 5 days, you will need to apply the antibiotic cream prescribed by your physician and avoid hot baths, swimming in pools or the sea.
- Avoid any physical activity and sauna use for 48 hours.
- Avoid direct sun exposure on the treated area for 3–4 weeks.
- Keep the area clean and dry while the tissue heals. Clean the area with an antimicrobial soap and gently dry it with gauze, avoiding any rubbing.
- Avoid direct exposure to high-pressure water.
- If a blister appears, do not burst it. Continue applying the recommended ointment until the blister subsides.
- Do not scratch, rub, or shave the area until it has fully healed.
- Apply high-SPF sunscreen even after the wound has healed, for a period of 30 days.
- Stay well hydrated throughout the course of treatment.
- If you have any concerns or notice anything unusual, contact our clinic.