The Magic of Laser Crystals
Did you know lasers use special crystals to make light stronger? Crystals like Ruby, Garnet, Sapphire, and Alexandrite help create the powerful beams used in tattoo removal. Here's how it works:
- Atoms in the crystal get excited by an energy source
- They release light particles (photons)
- These photons sync with incoming light
- The result: a precisely calibrated, high-powered laser beam
How Lasers Remove Tattoos
Lasers use a principle called selective photo thermolysis. Specific light wavelengths target certain ink colors because different pigments absorb different wavelengths. For example, a 660 nm laser targets green ink because green pigments preferentially absorb that wavelength. The laser energyshatters ink particles into fragments small enough for your body's immune system to clear away.
For a deeper look at what happens after each session, read our guide on tattoo removal aftercare.
The Pico Majesty Advantage
Many clinics use basic Q-switch lasers with only two wavelengths — 1064 nm and 532 nm. This meansthey're unable to treat all ink colors effectively, leaving green, blue, and teal ink frustratingly stubborn. The Pico Majesty laser we use at Next OV Skin is different. It has four wavelengths:
- 1064 nm — black and dark blue ink
- 532 nm — red, orange, and yellow ink
- 660 nm — green ink
- 595 nm — blue ink
Why Pico Technology Outperforms Q-Switch
- 250 picosecond pulse duration — 1,000 times faster than traditional Q-switch lasers
- Faster pulses break ink more effectively with less thermal damage to surrounding skin
- Uses the photoacoustic effect (sound waves) instead of heat — less pain, faster recovery
- Fewer sessions needed overall
- Reduced risk of blistering or scarring
The Recovery Process: What to Expect
At Next OV Skin in Edmonds, we're not just excited about the Pico Majesty's effectiveness during treatment — the recovery process is smoother too.
Day-by-Day After Treatment
- Immediately after: Some redness and mild swelling, similar to a sunburn — typically subsides within hours.
- First 24-48 hours: Apply cool compresses and keep the area elevated if possible. Gentle cleansing and moisturizing.
- First week: Minor blistering or scabbing may occur — this is normal. Do not pick or scratch.
- Weeks 2-6: Gradual fading begins as your body removes shattered ink particles.
Long-Term Care
- Sun protection: Always apply SPF 30+ to the treated area between sessions.
- Multiple sessions: Complete removal typically requires several treatments. We recommend at least 12 weeks between tattoo removal sessions. Ink will continue to clear for months, so waiting a little longer rather than treating too close together often gets you more out of each session.
- Healthy lifestyle: Good nutrition and hydration support faster healing and more efficient ink clearance.
Choosing a Provider
Before choosing a tattoo removal provider, always ask about their laser's specs:
- What wavelengths are available? (You need at least four to treat all colors)
- What is the pulse duration? (Picosecond > nanosecond)
- What is the peak power output?
This information helps safeguard both your skin and your investment.
Wondering how many sessions you may need? Read more about tattoo removal timelines. If you have darker skin, learn more about tattoo removal for dark skin.
If you are considering laser tattoo removal in Edmonds, we are here to answer your questions and help you understand what your journey might look like.
— Dr. Carleigh Tenzin, DA, Next OV Skin, Edmonds, WA