Some people visit to remove lettering tattoos on their hands. Since the back of the hand is always exposed, it's a spot where people want the removal process to be quick once they decide to erase it.
Let's follow the actual steps taken in a single treatment session.
Lowering the temperature simultaneously with irradiation
For lettering tattoo removal, we use a tattoo removal PicoWay Laser while simultaneously using an air cooling device.
The air cooling device delivers cold air deep into the skin, which can help alleviate pain.
Irradiation that selectively destroys pigment
We selectively destroy only the pigment using the PicoWay Laser, which operates in picosecond units, one trillionth of a second.
You can find information on the equipment configuration and principles in the R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal guide.
When white bubbles appear
When the lettering tattoo on the back of the hand was irradiated, a white bubble phenomenon appeared. This phenomenon interferes with the delivery of laser energy, so normally, only one irradiation session is possible per visit.
The R-Zero Technique involves applying a specialized medication when white bubbles appear to make them disappear. This allows for up to four irradiation sessions. This method originated in the United States.
Second, third, and fourth irradiations
After applying the specialized medication, it is rubbed in well. Once the white bubbles disappear, the second irradiation begins. As with the first session, air cooling is used simultaneously to alleviate pain.
After two irradiations, the specialized medication is applied again. Once the white bubbles disappeared again, the third irradiation began.
| Session | Process | Concurrently |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Session | PicoWay Laser irradiation | Air cooling |
| Medication application | Rub to remove bubbles | |
| 2nd Session | PicoWay Laser irradiation | Air cooling |
| Medication application | Rub to remove bubbles | |
| 3rd and 4th Sessions | Repeat in the same manner | Air cooling |
Thus, four irradiations were completed in a single visit.
The final step is to create a channel
After four irradiations, the final step remains.
- After laser irradiation, CO2 laser is used concurrently.
- This secures space for blisters to drain.
- The goal is to prevent scar formation.
An explanation of the Pinhole Technique is provided in the Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar guide.
If you are considering a hand tattoo
Removing lettering tattoos on the back of the hand is certainly possible. We recommend proceeding with the R-Zero Technique performed by a board-certified dermatologist. The number of sessions and the progress may vary for each individual.
The overall treatment flow can be seen in the Tattoo Removal Treatment guide.
Authored and medically reviewed by Jinmun Kang, Chief Director (Board-certified dermatologist) Board-certified dermatologist · Graduated from Yonsei University College of Medicine · Completed dermatology residency at Severance Hospital Former professor at Bundang CHA Hospital · Currently an adjunct professor at Yonsei University College of Medicine, Department of Dermatology Member of the Korean Society for Medical Lasers · Member of the Korean Society for Aesthetic and Dermatologic Surgery View Medical Staff Profile
First published 2025-04-03 · 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 for each individual.