If you've decided to remove a tattoo, you're probably most curious about how to achieve good results.
After performing numerous removal procedures, we've summarized four key points that have been confirmed to yield better results.
Starting with methods that reduce the duration
The principle of tattoo removal is that a laser is irradiated onto the tattooed area to break down the pigment, and then our body's macrophages consume and remove the broken pigment.
However, with conventional methods, after a single laser irradiation, bubbles form due to the broken pigment, allowing only one irradiation per session. This means it can take anywhere from six months to several years to completely remove a tattoo.
Many people give up midway if the duration is too long. To complete the process, it's better to proceed with methods that can shorten the duration.
Why we use R-Zero Technique and Pinhole Technique together
Our clinic's R-Zero Technique involves irradiating the laser once, then applying Perfluorodecalin (PFD) special medication to the bubbles that hinder further penetration. As the bubbles quickly disappear, it's possible to perform repeated treatments up to 3 to 4 times in a single session, depending on the skin.
When we combined this with the Pinhole Technique, which precisely creates microscopic holes with a high-output laser after the procedure, the pigment was able to exit more easily, and scar prevention was also observed.
Therefore, we recommend the R-Zero Pinhole Technique, which combines the R-Zero Technique and Pinhole Technique to shorten the duration.
You can find details on each procedure in R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal and Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar.
Equipment is judged by speed and wavelength
One of the factors that determines the outcome is the type of equipment used.
First, you should remove tattoos with a picosecond laser, which has a fast irradiation speed. A higher irradiation speed breaks down pigment more finely, making it easier and faster for macrophages to consume it. Many clinics still use nanosecond lasers, which are slower than picosecond lasers, so it's advisable to check if they use a picosecond laser, which is 1000 times faster than a nanosecond laser.
Second, it's better to receive treatment with a laser that has multiple wavelengths. This is because each pigment color responds best to a specific wavelength. Most removal lasers have about two wavelengths built-in.
| Check Item | Why it's important |
|---|---|
| Irradiation Speed | To break down pigment more finely and aid in expulsion |
| Number of Wavelengths | Because different pigments react to different wavelengths |
| Repeated Irradiation | Difference in the number of irradiations performed in one session |
The PicoWay Laser from Candela, USA, used at our clinic, is a picosecond laser that also features multiple wavelengths. You can see methods using different wavelengths in Nd:YAG Tattoo Removal.
Getting past the period when it looks darker
Since removal takes a long time, it's important to be patient and consistent.
Some people become anxious after one or two sessions, feeling that there's no improvement or that the tattoo has even gotten darker. It's not that it's not being removed.
Because there's more ink under the skin than we see, it might appear to spread slightly during the removal process. Also, laser irradiation can temporarily stimulate the area, making it look darker.
In such cases, the removal is still progressing, so you don't need to worry too much.
What not to do while healing
Post-treatment care is always emphasized because it's crucial for the treated area to heal well.
- Keep the treated area moisturized and use creams or lotions that aid in skin regeneration.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking as much as possible during the removal period, as they can hinder skin healing.
- Refrain from strenuous exercise that causes a lot of sweating for about a week, as it can lead to complications during recovery.
- It's generally better not to apply hydrocolloid dressings that block ventilation, as they can cause allergic reactions depending on your skin.
How to handle scabs and blisters
If scabs form after the procedure, do not pick them off, and try not to burst small blisters if possible.
If blisters are too large to manage or burst and ooze, it's best to visit the clinic for appropriate treatment.
The treatment flow is summarized in Tattoo Removal Treatment Guide, and if you find it difficult to judge during recovery, please contact us via chat now. Results and recovery progress may vary by individual.
Authored and Medically Reviewed by Dr. Jinmoon Kang, Head Director (Dermatologist) Graduated from Yonsei University College of Medicine · Resident in Dermatology at Severance Hospital Currently Adjunct Professor, Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine · Member of the Korean Dermatological Association View Medical Staff Profile
First Published 2024-03-26 · Last Reviewed 2026-07-29
This article contains general medical information and is not a substitute for individual diagnosis and treatment. Results and recovery progress may vary by individual.