PicoSure laser tattoo removal: what can I do about this hypopigmentation? (Photo)

Question

I am getting frustrated with my Picosure Tattoo Removal Treatments. When I started this, many interviews said it would be shorter (as opposed to other lasers) and that treatments would be complete in about 6 treatments. I am now on my 14th treatment and, as you can see, I have hypopigmentation and I still have my tattoo. Any advice? Please don't tell me to quit, as I have so much money and time invested into this. Perhaps a different laser other than the Picosure? Thank you for your time.

James Shire, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Hypopigmentation will occur in any and all darker skin individuals. This includes sun tanned skin. Treatment should not be be preformed if the area has had any sun, and the treated area needs to be protected from the sun. The number of treatments with a pico laser is much less than the Q- switch. Most (not all) tattoos take between 6-12 treatments, as opposed to 20-30 session.Please discuss your concerns with the doctor treating you.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Hypopigmentation will occur in any and all darker skin individuals. This includes sun tanned skin. Treatment should not be be preformed if the area has had any sun, and the treated area needs to be protected from the sun. The number of treatments with a pico laser is much less than the Q- switch. Most (not all) tattoos take between 6-12 treatments, as opposed to 20-30 session. Best of luck!

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and posting a picture.  I'm sorry you are not seeing the success that you desire.  Tattoo removal is one of the most frustrating things we offer.  You did not mention how long you are waiting between treatments.  After doing PicoSure laser tattoo removal for 4 years, we do things a lot differently that when we started.  The secret in ingredient is patience.  I think you have probably been treated too frequently and that what is somewhat responsible for your hypopigmentation.Lasers are only making the ink particles smaller so that your body can eliminated them easier.  We found that you just can't rush this process.  We see new laser tattoo removal patient at 2-3 month intervals.  By the time we get to 6 treatments, we wait at least 4 months, but we encourage you to wait longer.  With our longer wait times, we can USUALLY remove the in ink in 6-10 treatments.  This has also minimized hypopigmentation.  I hope this helps.

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

if you have darker skin or if you are tanned, when treated, this puts your at greater risk for hypo-pigmentation. You certainly do not want to get further treatments while you are tanned. Of course, they should not laser the hypo-pigmentated areas. It is possible that over the course of a year, that the color may return to these areas. The picosure laser does decrease the number of treatments needed. However some people (and it can be a function of what was used in the ink of the tattoo) can still require more sessions than expected and some colors eg white or flesh colored, can be almost impossible to remove. I would agree with Dr Riehm below, that it would be a great idea, to increase the interval between your tattoo sessions with the Picosure laser. it is an excellent laserdavid berman md

PicoSure laser tattoo removal: what can I do about this hypopigmentation? (Photo)

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Answers (4)

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