Are you looking to remove an unwanted tattoo? Laser tattoo removal is a safe and preferred solution for removing tattoos which have gained popularity in Singapore due to its effectiveness and minimal scarring. Laser tattoo removal targets the tattoo ink specifically, leaving the surrounding skin largely unharmed. This technique has become the go-to choice for many individuals seeking tattoo removal.
Laser tattoo removal utilises specific wavelengths of light energy that are absorbed by the tattoo ink pigments, enabling targeted breakdown of the ink. Different colours of ink absorb different wavelengths of light, allowing the laser to selectively target the specific ink colours present in the tattoo.
This process involves the emission of short, high-intensity light pulses that penetrate the skin without damaging it. These pulses are absorbed by the ink particles, heating them to the point where they disintegrate into smaller fragments. Over time, the body's immune system naturally eliminates these fragments.
The effectiveness of laser tattoo removal varies depending on several factors. Darker ink colours such as black and dark blue absorb the laser light more efficiently and are typically easier to remove. In contrast, lighter colours like yellow and pastel shades may require more sessions to achieve similar results. Additionally, the density of the ink and the depth at which it's embedded in the skin also influence the success of the tattoo removal process.
Q-switched Nd:YAG laser tattoo removal is a commonly used method for removing unwanted tattoos. This advanced laser technology specifically targets tattoo ink with precise wavelengths of light, ensuring the ink particles are broken down without damaging the surrounding skin. This procedure has gained popularity due to its efficacy, minimal invasiveness, and relatively low risk of side effects. One of the key advantages of Q-switched Nd:YAG laser tattoo removal is its ability to target a wide range of tattoo colours. The laser emits light at different wavelengths, allowing it to target tattoos with different pigment compositions.
The Q-switched Nd:YAG laser operates through a mechanism that allows for ultra-short bursts of energy, ideal for minimising skin exposure to thermal energy and reducing the risk of damage. This specificity makes it adept at targeting the pigments in diverse tattoo colours, enhancing its ability to clear various ink types.
At Shen's Medical, the Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser is the preferred method for removing unwanted tattoos safely and effectively. For darker inks, a 1064 nm wavelength is typically employed, while a 532 nm wavelength is used for brighter, more vibrant colours. Our trained and experienced team considers various factors such as the tattoo's size, location, ink colours, as well as the patient's skin type and sensitivity to ensure a customised approach.
Each session is carefully tailored to achieve the best possible results for every individual. It's important to remember that outcomes can vary, and multiple sessions may be necessary to fully remove the ink.
As you undergo your laser tattoo removal, your journey begins with a detailed consultation with our doctors. During this consultation, our doctors will examine your tattoo and discuss your removal goals, setting clear and realistic expectations. They will also evaluate your skin type, the age of the tattoo, and any underlying skin conditions that might affect the procedure.
Once you're ready to proceed, we will provide you with protective eyewear to safeguard your eyes from the laser. Our doctors will then use a handheld laser device to precisely target the tattooed areas of your skin. As the laser pulses are administered, you may experience a sensation akin to a rubber band snapping against your skin, which is generally well-tolerated.
After each laser tattoo removal session, proper aftercare is crucial for optimal healing and minimising potential complications. The treated area may be sensitive and resemble a sunburn, with redness, swelling, and minor discomfort. Our doctors will provide you with specific aftercare instructions, but here are some general guidelines to follow:
Gently wash the area with mild soap and water, then pat it dry with a clean towel. This helps prevent infection and promotes proper healing.
Depending on your doctor’s recommendations, you may be advised to apply an antibiotic ointment or a specialised aftercare product to the treated area. This will help to facilitate healing and prevent bacterial growth
Avoid exposing the treated area to direct sunlight, as it can cause pigmentation changes and increase the risk of complications. If you need to go outdoors, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and consider covering the area with clothing or a bandage.
It is important to refrain from picking at scabs or scratching the treated area, as this can lead to scarring or infection.
Keep the treated area clean and dry, and avoid activities that may expose the treated area to dirt or bacteria, such as swimming in pools or hot tubs.
While Q-Switched ND: YAG laser tattoo removal is a safe and preferred method, there are potential side effects that patients should be aware of. These may include:
Our medically trained team is committed to providing detailed guidance to help manage these side effects and to ensure you achieve the best results from your laser tattoo removal. Following our aftercare advice is crucial for your recovery and the efficacy of your tattoo removal sessions.
MA, MB BCh BAO (NUI), MRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS
Board Certified Consultant Plastic Surgeon
American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Fellowship (Hanyang University Korea)
MBBS (Singapore)
MRCS (Edinburgh)
M.MED (Surgery)
FAMS (Plastic Sugery)
Dr. Shens is the esteemed founder and lead surgeon at Shens Medical Aesthetics. He is a Ministry of Health accredited Consultant Plastic Surgeon, trained at the National University of Singapore and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. With an advanced specialty in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery from Hanyang University Hospital, Korea, Dr. Shens is renowned for adapting intricate Korean surgical techniques to enhance aesthetic outcomes. He continues to contribute to the field as a clinical teacher and a consultant at major hospitals.
MD, Board Certified in Dermatology
MBBS (Singapore)
American Board of Aesthetic Medicine
With over two decades of medical experience, Dr. Joanne is a dedicated practitioner at Shen's Medical, specialising in aesthetic and skin health. Her approach combines her profound commitment to dermatology with a passion for enhancing natural beauty through non-invasive techniques. Dr. Joanne’s expertise helps patients achieve radiant, healthy skin while boosting their self-esteem and confidence in facing modern beauty standards.
Our doctors provide advanced solutions for various aesthetic concerns, including double chin removal and acne scar removal in Singapore.
Several key factors determine the success of laser tattoo removal and the number of sessions required:
Lighter skin tones generally yield better results compared to those with darker skin as the contrast between the tattoo ink and the skin allows the laser to target the ink more effectively. However, advancements in laser technology have made it possible to perform successful removals on a wider range of skin tones.
Older tattoos tend to fade naturally, making them easier to remove. In contrast, newer tattoos often require more sessions due to their denser and more vibrant ink.
Tattoos with high-quality professional ink are usually more saturated and deeper in the skin, which can make them harder to remove than amateur tattoos. The density and depth of the ink directly affect how the laser interacts with the tattoo, often necessitating additional sessions for removal.
Certain colours, such as greens and blues, are more challenging to remove than black and dark blue. Lasers must be adjusted to specific wavelengths to effectively break down different pigments, and some colours may respond slower than others.
The combination of these factors means that each tattoo removal process is unique, and the number of sessions will vary. Tattoo removal sessions are typically spaced several weeks apart to allow the body enough time to eliminate the fragmented ink particles and heal between treatments. This spacing is crucial to achieving optimal results and minimising skin damage. Each session progressively fades the tattoo, with the cumulative effect evaluated after several sessions to determine the need for further tattoo removal sessions.
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