POSTED UNDER PicoWay REVIEWS
Half Sleeve Tattoo Removal
ORIGINAL POST
I just turned 21 and have this huge tattoo that...
love3356May 13, 2016
$2,800
I just turned 21 and have this huge tattoo that I'm going to have removed with laser. The Aesthetician I saw is suggesting Picoway as it operates at a 1064 wavelength and is best for targeting black. I have done tons of research so I know I'm going into this using the best available resources. I can't believe I'm sitting here today. I'm writing a review mostly to connect with others because this is going to be such a long process of what I have already been struggling to accept about myself. I have the worst scar/red pigmentation on my arm that I was always so self cautious about. I was only beginning to be truly happy and love who I am for almost two years and knew that If I could get rid (even though lasers from the past left me scarred trying to get rid of this pigmentation in the first place) it would make me almost entirely content with myself and my body image. I realized after not getting rid of the scar that I would be better off getting a coverup. I researched artists like crazy and found one who I thought was awesome and had a consultation. The artist seemed at first, like he was going to take care of me and help me out. I gave him two weeks with my idea (Roses, a handmirror and pearls) which was pretty simple, to turn into a really great piece. I showed up three days before I was scheduled to get it done, and he didn't have it drawn up. He said he'd have it done the next day and he did, but being as busy as he was I think he could have thought it through more. I hate myself not only for the fact of not standing up for myself but because there were so many red flags that I am a complete idiot for not taking them to heart. I am still in shock, I'm depressed, I have anxiety from hell and I literally just want to crawl in a hole and stay there forever. I was only trying to do what I thought would make me happy. Here goes a long and terrible experience while continually hiding my arm for another year or so. I would love some feedback and just people to talk to who actually understand what I'm going through! Thanks
Replies (10)

May 19, 2016
Hi there. You are definitely in the right place for some good people to help out with this journey. This group has really helped me during this difficult time. I had some work done to my tattoo and I feel that the artist ruined it. I had the same red flags and ignored them and now I am starting laser treatment. I am still very angry about the whole thing, but at the same time, I am starting to realize that it is not the end of my world. But some days are a bigger struggle with that.
Can I ask what you don't like about the tattoo? Is it placement, size, design? I think if you go for removal you will have a good chance since there is really only outlines and shading. Whatever you decide, please know you are not alone in this journey and we all totally understand!!!
Can I ask what you don't like about the tattoo? Is it placement, size, design? I think if you go for removal you will have a good chance since there is really only outlines and shading. Whatever you decide, please know you are not alone in this journey and we all totally understand!!!
May 26, 2016
Hey! I am so thankful for this site to be honest it really has helped so much! I'm sorry you have to go through this and I completely understand I ignored the red flags as well. It definitely could have gone better but I don't think either of us were really prepared, I was impatient and he was really busy during the time. I like things about it but kind of hate other things and just wish to have a fresh start. I'm looking to get a coverup although I would like for as much to be removed asap to avoid limitations. Thanks for your comment feel free to pm me anytime!
May 19, 2016
You will be ok. The shading will come off rather quick and black is the easiest to remove. I'm 7 months in on removal and although I still have my down moments, I have learned to accept a lot about my situation. Just focus on more important things in life and it will get easier, I promise. For worth its worth, I think your tat is pretty cool. If you decide to remove it though, I don't think you should have issues.
May 26, 2016
Thank you for the kind words it seriously means a lot. I hope your sessions are going well and that you're handling this as best as you can. I'm here if you need someone to talk to!
May 26, 2016
Back in the 1990's I had a close friend with a forearm tattoo if a dragon with flames for a body...he ended up getting it removed and you can NOT see it anymore. Yours is just black..which is so easy to remove. Chin up, young lady...and stop beating yourself up! You're already ahead of the game by being 21!!! Lol...
UPDATED FROM love3356
18 days pre
Before photos
love3356May 14, 2016
Here are my before pics. Going to be a month or so before I begin treatments. Wish me luck!
Replies (4)
May 15, 2016
Good thing that you never finished the whole sleeve then. I am also doing picoway and very happy with it so far. Also doing all black removal. Good luck to you
May 15, 2016
I know right haha I just thought it would be turning out better /: That is awesome I wish you the best and I'm here to chat if you ever want someone to talk to! (:
UPDATED FROM love3356
6 days pre
Go Tattoo Removal
love3356May 26, 2016
Has anyone heard of this place? They seem very reputable online and I think it would be worth the flight if they are motivated to get me the best results as soon as possible.. it would be a long flight but I can't really get myself to trust the local laser spas here.
Replies (3)
June 21, 2016
Can I ask why you opted not to use Go Tattoo Removal? I am planning to begin treatments there in August. I know they don't have the PicoWay there, but I've heard that the Q-switched works well for black. They also have the PicoSure.
June 22, 2016
Yeah and I'm sure they're awesome! Simply didn't use them because I found a place in Utah that charged me 110$ a session with picoway (Clarity Skin)
Welcome to the community, I just know that you will find lots of support here from people at varying stages of removal. You're right, it's a long journey and you don't have to do it alone. Will you be sharing any before and progress photos with the community?
We have a whole Video Library that you can browse through, some great information there. And you can post any questions that you have in the 'Ask a Doctor' section for expert answers. ☺