Off with that ink!

Laser technologies from licensed manufacturers and when in the hands of trained operators are regarded as a safe and efficient way of removing unwanted tattoos. Here we look at just some of the systems on the market.

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SmartPICO

The Hitech Group offers the SmartPICO laser system developed by DEKA, Italy, which operates with pico- and nanosecond emissions in two wavelengths: 532 and 1064nm. Both wavelengths are particularly effective in tattoo removal.

Says Hitech’s Kanika Olivier: “The combination of nanosecond and picosecond emission is particularly successful in tattoo removal, allowing multiple-step action based on the type of tattoo and cutaneous conditions. A first rough removal helps the expulsion of the largest pigments (short bursts of energy - nanoseconds) and a finishing phase in which the pigment is broken down into tiny particles, which are easily removed through the phagocytosis process (picoseconds).

“Very short laser pulses are absorbed into the target areas of the skin, causing the conversion of light energy into acoustic waves that shatter the ink/pigment granules in a process that is fast and effective. SmartPICO is also particularly effective in the treatment of the most resilient tattoos like faded ones and those which have penetrated in depth (ghost). This emission combination yields far better results than using either one of the technologies on its own.”

She notes that SmartPICO’s wide range of handpieces allow great treatment flexibility. The different shapes and sizes of the handpieces’ spots (square, round, fractional and DEKA Peel) and the 4 emission modalities modalities (nanoseconds, picoseconds, thermal, double pulse) make SmartPICO one of the most flexible tattoo removal systems on the market. Each spot has its own focal lens which allows optimized energy delivery by maximizing efficacy of the treatment: traditional and fractional emission square and round spot size.

“SmartPICO provides a profound result thanks to the high pulse energy (2GW peak power). Faster and better healing cuts out downtime.

“The exclusive round and square spots are characterised by a homogeneous pulse – thanks to which the same amount of energy is delivered throughout the whole contact area, thus allowing maximum delivered energy control and minimization of undesirable side-effects due to uneven energy dosage. The square spots are ideal for tattoo removal and avoids the problem of overlapping shots.

“As to pico versus Q-Switched lasers, pico lasers work in pico-seconds and they are able to generate more energy and force in a shorter amount of time than a Q-Switched laser. Pico lasers have quicker and more effective results,” explains Olivier.

SmartPICO advantages include the ability to treat multi-colour tattoos and requires fewer treatments than other systems. There is better clearance, less discomfort, high patient satisfaction. Olivier points out that SmartPICO can treat different skin type conditions, not only tattoo removal.

Harmony XL Pro

The Harmony XL Pro by Alma Lasers is a cutting-edge aesthetic device that offers a safe and effective solution for tattoo removal. With its advanced laser technology, the Harmony XL Pro can effectively remove even the most stubborn tattoos, leaving behind clear, smooth skin.

One of the unique features of the Harmony XL Pro is its ability to target a wide range of tattoo ink colours. This includes traditionally difficult-toremove colours such as red, orange and yellow. The device uses high-powered laser energy to break down the ink particles into small fragments, which are then naturally removed by the body’s immune system. The result is a gradual fading of the tattoo over time.

Another advantage of the Harmony XL Pro is its safety as the device uses a cooling system to protect the skin from damage and minimise any discomfort during the treatment. The laser energy is also highly precise, ensuring that only the tattoo is targeted, and surrounding skin is left unharmed.

Regarding the number of treatments required to fully remove a tattoo, this will vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the tattoo, as well as the colour and type of ink used. However, with the Harmony XL Pro, clients can expect to see noticeable results after just a few treatments.

In conclusion, the Harmony XL Pro by Alma Lasers is a safe and effective solution for tattoo removal. Its ability to target a wide range of ink colours, combined with its safety and precision, make it a popular choice for those looking to remove tattoos. If you are looking to say goodbye to an old tattoo, the Harmony XL Pro is definitely worth considering.