Laser Tattoo Removal in Des Moines, WA
Advanced PICO laser technology for effective tattoo removal and fading. Allen Medical Aesthetics in Des Moines, WA uses picosecond laser pulses to treat all ink colors, including blues, greens, and reds that older lasers struggle to clear.
- Treatment Time
- 15-30 minutes
- Downtime
- 3-5 days
- Results In
- 4-6 weeks
- Lasts
- Permanent
- Sessions
- 6-12
- Best For
- Tattoo removal
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
Laser tattoo removal uses targeted laser energy to break down ink particles trapped in the skin. The body's immune system then naturally flushes these fragmented particles away through the lymphatic system over the weeks following each session. At Allen Medical Aesthetics in Des Moines, WA, we use PICO (picosecond) laser technology for faster clearance and fewer sessions than older methods.
Picosecond lasers deliver ultra-short pulses of energy measured in trillionths of a second. This is significantly faster than older Q-switch lasers, which operate in nanoseconds (billionths of a second). The shorter pulse duration creates a photomechanical effect that shatters ink particles into much smaller fragments. Smaller fragments are easier for the body's macrophages to engulf and eliminate, which means faster fading, fewer sessions, and less thermal damage to surrounding tissue.
Whether you want complete tattoo removal or are looking to fade a tattoo for a cover-up, our team will evaluate your tattoo and create a treatment plan tailored to your goals. Sophie Whittman, LE, performs all pico laser tattoo removal treatments at our clinic.
The PICO Laser Tattoo Removal Process
Each tattoo is unique, and the removal process depends on the ink type, color, density, age, depth, and location on the body. During your consultation, we evaluate your tattoo and provide a realistic estimate of the number of sessions needed.
PICO laser technology has changed tattoo removal significantly. The picosecond pulses break ink into much smaller particles than older lasers, which means faster clearance, fewer sessions, and less risk of scarring. It works on colors that used to be nearly impossible to treat.
Tattoo assessment and consultation
Sophie Whittman evaluates the size, color, ink density, age, and location of your tattoo. She provides a personalized treatment plan including the estimated number of sessions, expected timeline, and pricing.
Preparation and numbing
On treatment day, the area is cleaned and a topical numbing agent is applied to minimize discomfort. The numbing cream takes 15 to 20 minutes to take effect.
PICO laser treatment
The PICO laser delivers rapid picosecond pulses across the tattoo. The wavelength is selected based on the ink colors being targeted. You will feel a snapping sensation with each pulse. Sessions take 15 to 30 minutes depending on the tattoo size.
Post-treatment care and scheduling
The treated area will appear white immediately after treatment ("frosting"), then develop redness and swelling. We apply ointment and a bandage. You receive aftercare instructions and schedule your next session six to eight weeks later to allow the body time to clear fragmented ink.
Ready to see if laser tattoo removal is right for you?
Complimentary consultations available. No pressure, no obligation.
What We Can Treat
PICO laser tattoo removal is effective on a wide range of tattoo types. During your consultation, we assess your specific tattoo and provide honest expectations about the removal timeline.
- Professional tattoos (all colors including blues, greens, and reds)
- Amateur and homemade tattoos (often clear faster due to less ink density)
- Partially faded tattoos
- Tattoos on arms, legs, back, chest, hands, feet, and neck
- Multi-colored tattoos
Is This Treatment Right for You?
Sound like you? Let's talk about your goals.
Book a Consultation- Patients who want complete tattoo removal
- Those looking to fade a tattoo for cover-up preparation
- Patients with multi-colored tattoos including difficult colors like green, blue, and purple
- Those who want modern picosecond technology rather than older Q-switch laser systems
- Patients willing to commit to multiple sessions spaced six to eight weeks apart
Recovery and What to Expect
Immediately after treatment, the tattoo area will appear white (a response called "frosting"), then turn red and swollen. Blistering is common and expected within the first 24 to 72 hours. This is a normal part of the healing process and should not be popped or picked at.
Keep the treated area clean, dry, and covered with the ointment and bandage we provide. Avoid sun exposure on the treatment area between sessions. Gradual fading occurs over four to eight weeks as the body's immune system clears the fragmented ink particles.
Most tattoos require six to ten sessions for significant fading or removal, though this varies based on ink type, color, age, depth, and location. Amateur tattoos and older tattoos often clear in fewer sessions. Laser tattoo removal before and after progress is typically most visible starting after the third or fourth session.
White "frosting" on the treated area, followed by redness and swelling. Keep the area covered with ointment and bandage as directed.
Blistering is common and expected. Do not pop or pick at blisters. Apply prescribed ointment and keep the area clean.
Blistering resolves. The area may scab and peel. Let the skin heal naturally without picking.
Gradual fading becomes visible as the body clears ink fragments through the lymphatic system. Schedule your next session after six to eight weeks.
Most tattoos achieve significant fading or removal. Results vary by tattoo type, ink, and color.
Common Questions About Laser Tattoo Removal
How many sessions does laser tattoo removal take?
Most tattoos require six to ten sessions spaced six to eight weeks apart. The exact number depends on the ink type, color, density, depth, age of the tattoo, and its location on the body. Amateur tattoos with lighter ink density often clear in fewer sessions than professional tattoos. During your consultation, we provide a realistic estimate based on your specific tattoo.
How much does tattoo removal cost?
Tattoo removal cost is based on the size of the tattoo and the estimated number of sessions required. Smaller tattoos cost less per session than larger pieces. We provide a personalized estimate during your consultation after evaluating your tattoo in person. Package pricing may be available for multi-session treatment plans.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. We offer topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort during treatment. Sessions are typically short, lasting 15 to 30 minutes depending on the tattoo size. The discomfort is brief and limited to the treatment itself.
Can all tattoo colors be removed?
PICO laser technology can treat all ink colors, including blues, greens, purples, and reds that older Q-switch lasers had difficulty clearing. Black and dark ink tend to respond fastest because they absorb the broadest range of laser wavelengths. Lighter colors like yellow and white may require additional sessions due to their lower contrast with the surrounding skin.
What is the difference between PICO and Q-switch lasers?
PICO lasers deliver energy in picosecond pulses (trillionths of a second), which shatter ink into much smaller fragments than Q-switch nanosecond lasers (billionths of a second). Smaller ink fragments are easier for the body to eliminate through the lymphatic system. The practical result is faster clearance, fewer sessions, and a reduced risk of scarring compared to older Q-switch technology.
How many laser tattoo removal sessions does it take to fully remove a tattoo?
Most tattoos require 6 to 12 sessions spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart for significant fading or complete removal. The number of sessions depends on ink color, ink density, tattoo age, skin type, and tattoo location on the body. Black and dark blue inks respond fastest, while green, yellow, and white inks require more sessions. Your provider will assess your tattoo and give you a realistic session estimate during your consultation.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as a series of quick, sharp snaps against the skin, similar to being snapped with a rubber band. The PICO laser is generally better tolerated than older Q-switch lasers because the shorter pulse duration means less heat buildup in the tissue. We offer cooling and topical numbing to manage discomfort during treatment.
Can laser tattoo removal completely remove a tattoo, or will a shadow remain?
Complete removal is possible for many tattoos, especially those with dark ink and fewer colors. However, some tattoos may leave a faint shadow or slight skin texture change where the tattoo was located. Factors that influence complete removal include ink type, ink depth, and your body's ability to flush ink particles. Your provider will give you a realistic assessment of expected outcomes based on your specific tattoo.
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Read articleSchedule Your Tattoo Removal Consultation
Contact Allen Medical Aesthetics in Des Moines, WA for a tattoo removal consultation. We will evaluate your tattoo, explain the PICO laser process, and provide a personalized treatment plan. Call (206) 414-9979 or book online. We serve patients from Des Moines, Federal Way, Kent, Burien, Seattle, and throughout South King County.
- Board-certified providers
- FDA-approved products only
- Complimentary consultations
- Transparent, honest pricing
- Individualized treatment plans
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