How Laser Tattoo Removal Works: Breaking Down the Science of Ink Removal

Tattoos are designed to be permanent  which makes removing them safely a true technological achievement. If you’ve ever wondered how lasers can make unwanted ink fade away without damaging the skin, the answer lies in precision, light, and your body’s natural healing process.

At Reversal Laser in Edmonton, we use cutting-edge PicoWay® laser technology to deliver faster, more effective tattoo removal with minimal discomfort and downtime. Our approach focuses on safety, customization, and noticeable results with every session.

What Happens When You Get a Tattoo

To understand tattoo removal, it helps to know how tattoos work in the first place.

When you get a tattoo, the ink is injected deep into the dermis, the skin layer below the surface. The pigment particles are too large for your immune system to clear on its own, so they remain trapped  giving your tattoo its long-lasting design.

Over time, your body’s immune cells try to break down the ink, which is why tattoos can fade slightly but never disappear completely. That’s where laser technology comes in.

How Lasers Target and Break Down Ink Particles

Laser tattoo removal works by sending short, high-intensity pulses of light into the skin. Each pulse is absorbed by the tattoo pigment, causing the ink particles to shatter into tiny fragments.

Here’s what makes it safe and effective:

• The laser light is calibrated to specific wavelengths that match the color of your tattoo ink.
  
• It targets pigment precisely  without damaging the surrounding skin tissue.
  
• Once the particles are broken down, your lymphatic system gradually flushes them out over the following weeks.
  

Each session fades the tattoo layer by layer until the ink becomes significantly lighter or completely invisible. This process is highly controlled, allowing our technicians to treat even sensitive areas safely.

Why PicoWay Technology Delivers Faster, Safer Results

Not all lasers are created equal. At Reversal Laser, we use PicoWay®, one of the most advanced systems available today. Unlike traditional nanosecond lasers, PicoWay delivers ultra-short picosecond pulses  that’s one trillionth of a second  to target ink more effectively.

The benefits of this advanced technology include:

• Faster results: Shorter pulse durations mean more pigment breakdown in fewer sessions.
  
• Better for all skin tones: PicoWay uses multiple wavelengths that safely treat a variety of ink colors and skin types.
  
• Minimal discomfort: The ultra-fast pulses create less heat, reducing the risk of burns or scarring.
  
• Improved skin texture: Many clients notice smoother, clearer skin as a bonus effect of collagen stimulation.
  

PicoWay technology allows us to remove tattoos more completely and comfortably than ever before. It’s especially effective for stubborn ink that older lasers struggle to fade.

What Affects How Many Sessions You’ll Need

Every tattoo  and every skin type  is different. The number of sessions required depends on several factors:

• Tattoo age and ink color: Older tattoos and black ink tend to fade faster than newer, multi-colored ones.
  
• Tattoo depth and density: Thicker ink layers require more treatments to fully break down.
  
• Location on the body: Areas with stronger circulation (like arms and shoulders) often heal faster.
  
• Your skin type and immune system: Healthy skin and good hydration support faster recovery and ink removal.
  

Most clients need 6–10 sessions, spaced about 6–8 weeks apart, for optimal results. During your consultation, we’ll assess your tattoo and create a custom plan based on your goals and skin type.

How to Care for Skin Between Treatments

Proper aftercare is crucial for healing and achieving clear, smooth results.

Here’s how to take care of your skin post-treatment:

• Keep the area clean, dry, and protected for at least 24 hours.
  
• Avoid picking or scratching any scabs or blisters.
  
• Apply a gentle healing ointment as recommended by your technician.
  
• Stay out of direct sunlight or tanning beds until the area is fully healed.
  
• Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to support your body’s natural healing process.
  

Following aftercare closely ensures each session works as effectively as possible and reduces the risk of irritation or delayed healing.

Book a Consultation at Reversal Laser Edmonton

If you’re ready to finally say goodbye to unwanted ink, trust the experts at Reversal Laser in Edmonton. Our certified specialists use advanced PicoWay® laser technology to safely and effectively remove tattoos of all sizes, colors, and complexities.

Book your tattoo removal consultation today and take the first step toward clear, confident skin with Reversal Laser where science and artistry meet results.