We love a good tattoo as much as the next person, but we also understand that not all tattoo decisions are good ones. Luckily, laser tattoo removal has come a long way since emerging as a treatment option in the 1980s. 

The early 90s brought about much safer procedures with minimal side effects, and since then, laser treatment systems have significantly progressed. In the last ten years, in particular, the technology for laser tattoo removal has become much more refined.

In 2014, one of the latest and most advanced laser removal systems launched after receiving approval from the FDA — Syneron Candela’s PicoWay Picosecond laser. 

What is PicoWay?

PicoWay is an innovative laser system that is both FDA and CE-approved. It was designed with a dual wavelength picosecond laser that uses high-power ultrashort pulses to treat a number of skin issues, such as pigmentation and all tattoo colors and types — including recalcitrant tattoos. 

The PicoWay system is the world’s 1st dual-wavelength laser with dual-wavelength fractional capabilities. The technology offers a range of flexibility in adjusting the wavelength beam, how much energy is used, repetition rate, and spot size for optimal and customizable treatments. 

How the PicoWay Laser System Works

PicoWay’s proprietary technology uses high peak power and ultrashort pulses for optimal results and comfort. These pulses are delivered at a picosecond (a trillionth of a second), enabling the strong photoacoustic impact needed to break up tattoo pigment particles. The laser is delivered so rapidly that even the tiniest pigment fragments shatter. 

Furthermore, because PicoWay uses photoacoustic fracturing, less heat is generated, meaning minimal discomfort and fewer side effects. The PicoWay picosecond laser also works below the surface of the skin, which means the outer layer of the skin is left intact. 

How is PicoWay Different From Other Laser Systems?

Other picosecond lasers, like Picosure, use 750ps pulses, which deliver a more photothermal effect. This means it requires more treatments over a longer period to be effective, and it can lead to more side effects. 

Q-Switch lasers also require numerous treatments and can cause increased discomfort. This technology is also not as efficient, meaning it often doesn’t completely remove tattoos and pigmented lesions.

PicoWay, on the other hand, is twice as fast and three times more powerful, which means no photothermal effect, fewer treatments required, and significantly faster recovery time. The PicoWay laser system also offers four different treatment options, depending on the handpiece used:

• PicoWay Zoom

• • Tattoo removal
  • Benign pigmented lesions
  • Full beam 532 nm and 1064 nm

• PicoWay Resolve

• • Acne scars, wrinkles, and benign pigmented lesions
  • 532 nm and 1064 nm

• PicoWay 785 nm & 730 nm

• • Tattoo removal (blue and green)
  • Benign pigmented lesions
  • Full beam 785 nm and 730 nm

• PicoWay Resolve Fusion 532 nm

• • Benign pigmented lesions
  • Fusion beam structure for more coverage

The Benefits of PicoWay Tattoo Removal

The PicoWay laser is one of the most advanced tattoo laser removal systems available today. This innovative laser technology can handle all tattoo types and can accomplish a more efficient removal without damaging the surrounding skin tissue. 

Some of the many benefits of choosing the PicoWay laser system include:

• Safer for a Wider Range of Skin Types: With other laser systems, darker skin types could develop dark or light spots due to the absorption of too much energy, but PicoWay is much safer and more effective for a broader range of skin types. 
• Minimal downtime: The system’s ultra-short pulses provide a photoacoustic effect instead of a photothermal effect. This means pulses do not heat the skin, which prevents side effects and scarring that could otherwise lead to longer healing and downtime. PicoWay tattoo removal leaves the outer layer of the skin completely unharmed. 
• Little to no discomfort: Because the PicoWay system doesn’t transfer heat to the skin, not only is there minimal downtime, but there is also minimal discomfort. 
• Works on ALL tattoo colors: Other lasers emit only one color of light, meaning doctors would need to use four different lasers to treat a multicolor tattoo, which could be ineffective. PicoWay, however, uses different wavelengths, meaning it can tackle even the most stubborn green and blue ink. 
• Clears tattoos faster: Traditional laser treatments often require multiple sessions over a 12 to 18-month period. But with PicoWay tattoo removal, patients require only 6 to 8 treatments on average over a 5 to 6-month period. 

PicoWay Tattoo Removal with Ink-B-Gone

Every person and every tattoo is different — so ask our experts if PicoWay tattoo removal is right for you.

When you decide to have a tattoo removed, it’s important that you find a professional technician with the skills and experience you can trust. Before you commit, we offer FREE consultations here at Ink-B-Gone — the leading Colorado laser tattoo removal experts. 

For more information and helpful tips, follow us on Twitter and Instagram.