Four Conditions That Carry Tattoo Removal To The Finish

If you've decided to remove a tattoo, you're probably wondering how to achieve good results. We've compiled the methods that yielded good results after performing numerous removals.

The principle of tattoo removal involves two stages: laser irradiation of the tattooed area to break down the pigment, and then macrophages consume the broken pigment for removal.

However, with typical laser removal, the bubbles created when the pigment breaks after a single laser shot mean that only one shot can be delivered per session. This can lead to a process that takes anywhere from six months to several years for complete removal.

Long-term treatment can be burdensome due to frequent hospital visits. To complete the process, it's advisable to proceed with methods that reduce the duration.

The laser breaks down tattoo pigment into tiny particles that are easier for macrophages to consume. A faster irradiation speed means the pigment is broken down more finely, allowing macrophages to process it more easily and quickly.

Nanosecond lasers and picosecond lasers are both used for tattoo removal. Picosecond lasers have a pulse width approximately 1000 times shorter than nanosecond lasers. You can compare the differences between these two methods by looking at Nd:YAG Tattoo Removal and R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal.

Each tattoo pigment responds best to a specific wavelength for removal. Most tattoo removal lasers have about two wavelengths built-in, but the PicoWay Laser from Candela in the US is a picosecond laser with four wavelengths.

Some people become impatient after one or two treatments, feeling that there's no progress or that the tattoo has even become darker.

After laser irradiation, the tattooed area may temporarily appear darker due to stimulation. This is not a sign that removal is failing, but rather a part of the fading process, so please be patient and continue.

The R-Zero Technique performed at our clinic uses a special medication to eliminate bubbles that hinder further laser penetration after irradiation, allowing for up to 3 to 4 repeated treatments per session, depending on the skin condition. When combined with the Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar method, which creates precise micro-holes with a high-output laser after treatment, pigment can be expelled more effectively, and the likelihood of blistering is reduced, offering scar prevention benefits.

How well the treated area heals determines the outcome.

• Pay attention to moisturizing the treated area to keep it hydrated, and use creams or lotions that aid in regeneration.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking during the removal period, as they can hinder skin healing.
• Avoid strenuous exercise that causes excessive sweating for about a week, as it can lead to complications.
• Avoid using hydrocolloid dressings that block ventilation, as they can cause allergic reactions depending on your skin.
• If scabs form, do not forcibly remove them, and do not pop small blisters.
• If blisters are too large to manage or burst and ooze, seek treatment at the clinic.

You can find the overall treatment flow in Tattoo Removal Treatment Guide. If you have any concerns during the process, please contact us via chat now. Individual results may vary.

Authored and Medically Reviewed by Dr. Kang Jin-moon, Chief Director (Dermatologist) Graduated from Yonsei University College of Medicine · Resident in Dermatology at Severance Hospital Former Professor at Bundang CHA Hospital · Member of the Korean Dermatological Association View Medical Staff Profile

First Published: 2023-12-27 · Last Reviewed: 2026-07-29

This article contains general medical information and is not a substitute for individual diagnosis and treatment. Results and recovery may vary by individual.