How Effective Is Laser Tattoo Removal?

Ildikó Juhasz • February 2, 2020

Are you suffering from tattoo regret? Don’t worry! The science of laser tattoo removal has come a long way! PicoSure Laser Treatment is a new form of tattoo removal that offers better results in fewer appointments than previous methods. Finally, you can get rid of your unwanted tattoo and reveal your own beautiful, natural skin. So, how effective is laser tattoo removal? In the case of PicoSure, this method works well, even in challenging situations.

What Is PicoSure Laser Tattoo Removal?

PicoSure laser tattoo removal is a service we proudly offer at Your Derm Laser & Esthetics in Calgary, AB. It is at the forefront of tattoo removal technology and offers more complete, risk-free removal of tattoos than Q-switched lasers, which were once considered the best option. The advantage of PicoSure is that it can target ink deep beyond the first layer of your skin, shattering it into small particles that your body can absorb via its own natural healing process.

Who Can Benefit From PicoSure?

Tattoo Regret Is Normal

Did you know that 1 in 5 people who get a tattoo eventually wish to have it removed? Given these numbers, we can say that tattoo regret is a common problem affecting many lives.

Being comfortable in your own skin is extremely important. If you are someone who wishes to have a tattoo removed, choosing PicoSure can help you attain the look you want to show the world. Having the ability to remove unwanted tattoos can improve the quality of your life by eliminating images that no longer reflect how you feel on the inside.

Reasons to Remove a Tattoo

There are many good reasons why you may wish to remove a tattoo. Many people say they were too young when they got their tattoo done and that their tastes have since changed. This is especially true in situations where people get tattoos in their late teens or early 20s. Employment challenges are another common concern among people who have tattoos. Some people just want to remove their tattoos because their sense of what is beautiful has changed.

When asked why they want to remove a tattoo, people usually say things like “I was very young when I got it”, or, commonly, “I just don’t like it”. Perhaps your tattoo reflects a time in your life that has passed or a situation that has changed. Good news! You can now put that tattoo in the past, as well!

Tattoo Removal Is a Common Treatment

As the popularity of tattoos rises, so does the number of tattoo removal treatments being done every year. You can rest assured that, with the latest technology, PicoSure laser tattoo removal is a treatment that many have sought out with satisfying results. Even celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Eva Longoria, Marc Anthony, and Denise Richards have said goodbye to unwanted tattoos.

Before PicoSure…

Other Laser Methods

While tattoo removal techniques have been used since people started getting tattoos, they were not always safe or effective. Before the 1990s, continuous-wave lasers were used to deliver high energy beams into the skin. While these waves lessened the appearance of the targeted tattoo, they also caused damage and scarring to the surrounding tissue.

In the 1990s, Q-switched lasers became available. These rely on thermal energy to heat up and break apart the ink particles retained in the skin. While more effective than continuous-wave lasers, this method still requires many treatments and is not effective on all types of ink and colors.

Before Lasers

Before laser technology, tattoo removal was even more difficult. Dermabrasion, the use of trichloroacetic acid to remove layers of the skin, salabrasion (scrubbing the skin with salt), cryosurgery, excision, and skin grafts have all been tried. People have even attempted to remove their tattoos by injecting tannic acid, garlic, and lemon juice into their skin! As you can imagine, these methods are questionable and yield results that are less than ideal.

Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about any of these questionable methods. Finally, a safe and effective treatment for tattoo removal exists: PicoSure.

How Does PicoSure Work?

PicoSure is a form of tattoo removal that works with your body to eliminate the ink from your skin. Its effectiveness exceeds that of all other methods, even Q-switched lasers. Rather than relying solely on heat to break down the tattoo, it blasts the ink into tiny particles so small that your skin can clear them naturally. Rather than compromising the tissue surrounding the tattoo, PicoSure works with your body’s powerful mechanism for cleansing the skin.

The Role of Dermal Machrophages

So, what are dermal machrophages? Within your immune system, machrophages are tasked with eliminating cellular debris and foreign elements that your body does not need. Essentially, they keep your skin clean and healthy. When you get a tattoo, the dermal machrophages can grab on to the ink, but they have trouble letting go. This is why your tattoo stays.

The Challenge of Previous Tattoo Removal Methods

When a machrophage that contains ink is opened, other machrophages collect the ink that is released, and the process by which the ink stays in your skin repeats. The new machrophages store it rather than clearing it out. This is why tattoos were once so difficult to remove, even with lasers.

Getting Your Dermal Machrophages to Work for You!

PicoSure offers a real solution. It uses an ultra-short pulse duration that goes beyond a thermal treatment. Photomechanical pressure-wave technology shatters ink into particles so tiny, your dermal machrophages are able to finally clear them. In this way, PicoSure harnesses your body’s natural healing process to finally get rid of your tattoo for good.

The Layers of Your Skin

Your skin has multiple layers. The first is the epidermis and the second is the dermis. One of the reasons tattoos last so long is because the ink is injected below the first level of skin, deep in the dermis.

The normal process by which the skin renews itself does not affect the ink, even with exfoliation. This is why claims that creams and other topical treatments can get rid of tattoos are overwhelmingly false. Fortunately, our technology is capable of targeting the ink far below the surface.

What Are the Benefits of PicoSure?

Effective in Challenging Tattoo Removal Situations

In tattoos, some colors are more difficult to remove than others. Usually, different types of lasers are required to remove the different colors. Dark colors like blue and black are easier to get rid of, while greens and lighter colors are more challenging. Unfortunately, these are some of the most popular choices in tattoos now, especially with the introduction of pastel shades.

Using other methods of tattoo removal can require many treatments and yield results that are less than desirable. In some cases, the tattoo can only be partly removed. PicoSure provides a more thorough removal and can target a broader spectrum of color than any method previously developed.

Safe for All Skin Types

Your skin type will also play a factor in the success of your tattoo removal. PicoSure is safe for all skin types and colors.

No Long Recovery Time

Other methods of tattoo removal can involve a recovery period that will vary in length depending on the treatment, how the tattoo was initially done, and the size of the treated area. People who choose PicoSure consistently report that they do not need to undergo a long recovery period, and can resume normal activities immediately after the treatment.

More Complete Removal of Your Tattoo

Imagine being able to wear scoop-back dresses without people seeing a tattoo. Imagine going to work without worrying about your boss or co-workers seeing a tattoo you got years ago. Imagine not having to decide if you should wear long sleeves on a hot day. If you can picture your skin clear and free of that unwanted tattoo, PicoSure can help you make this vision come true.

Less Likely to Result in Scarring

Some methods of tattoo removal, especially ones that involve surgical removal of the tattooed areas, can leave scars. When you get a tattoo removed, you want to see fresh, clear skin, not scarring. Fortunately, using PicoSure laser technology to undo your tattoo is a non-invasive, less intense treatment for your body. The newly developed PicoSure lasers protect your skin and are much less likely to leave scars than any other method.

When Is  PicoSur e  Helpful?

For Partially Removed Tattoos

Maybe you tried a different method of tattoo removal before and are not satisfied with the results. With the advances in laser tattoo removal technology, it is a good time to try again! PicoSure is a more effective, complete means of tattoo removal than the methods which preceded it. This means that you can use PicoSure to remove areas of an old tattoo that Q-switched lasers or other removal methods left behind.

For Tattoos That Will Be Altered

Perhaps you like some aspects of your tattoo but want to change it. Maybe you are considering replacing an old tattoo with a new one that better expresses who you are. A good tattoo artist will be able to modify your existing tattoo to better suit your tastes, but his or her work will be more effective if you use PicoSure first.

Getting the old ink out of your skin will allow for a cleaner application of new ink so that your tattoo can finally look the way you want.

For Tattoos You Just Don’t Want Anymore

Whether you got the tattoo recently or a long time ago, for some reason, it is not making you feel more beautiful now. The good news is that you don’t need to regret it anymore.

When you choose to remove your tattoo, you can feel fresh and ready for the future. You don’t need to regret the tattoo because it was a valid means of self-expression when you got it. Now that the tattoo no longer reflects you, you can remove it and look the way you want.

The Wait for Effective Tattoo Removal Is Finally Over

If you have a tattoo you want to undo but have delayed the treatment, now is a good time to give your appearance a fresh start. Laser tattoo removal technology has finally yielded a method that is effective and safe. PicoSure is an advanced breakthrough that targets ink more effectively than previous methods. It works for all skin types, can target tough colors, and will remove your tattoo while allowing you to resume normal activities the same day. You don’t need to worry about scheduling many appointments, because PicoSure works with just a few treatments.

If you feel more beautiful just imagining yourself without your tattoo, think how satisfied you will be after PicoSure. Contact Your Derm Laser & Esthetics in Calgary, AB at 403-457-1900 to schedule a consultation.

The post How Effective Is Laser Tattoo Removal? appeared first on Derm.ca.

By Ildiko Juhasz April 28, 2025
There's something truly magical about a mother's glow—a radiance that comes from unconditional love, resilience, and an endless giving spirit. But let's be honest: balancing work, family, life, and a thousand responsibilities can leave its mark on the skin. This is why, at Derm.ca, we believe mothers deserve skincare routines that not only pamper but truly work, with cutting-edge ingredients and treatments that address both visible signs of aging and deeper, cellular skin health. As we celebrate mothers this season, it's the perfect time to dive into the most exciting trends shaping the future of skincare—treatments we proudly offer to honor that natural glow while empowering every mom to feel as radiant on the outside as she is on the inside. Forget old-school "one-size-fits-all" creams. The skincare world in 2025 is buzzing with innovation: think probiotics for a stronger skin barrier, anti-aging serums with real clinical power, and tech-enhanced treatments like microneedling RF technologies (hello Morpheus8 and Profound RF!) that our Derm.ca specialists use to literally turn back the clock. Whether you're shopping for a Mother's Day gift or revamping your own beauty ritual, it's time to embrace the science, sophistication, and soul behind today's most transformative skincare trends—all available at our clinic. Why Probiotics in Skincare Are Changing Everything For years, the idea of probiotics was reserved for gut health—kombucha, yogurt, supplements. But now, thanks to new dermatological discoveries we've been implementing at Derm.ca, probiotics are making major waves in skincare. Why? Because just like your gut, your skin has a delicate microbiome that needs balance to stay healthy, resilient, and vibrant. Environmental aggressors—pollution, UV rays, harsh cleansers—can disrupt your skin's microbiome, leading to inflammation, dryness, breakouts, and premature aging. That's where topical probiotics (and prebiotics) step in: they help feed the beneficial bacteria on your skin, strengthen your barrier, and boost hydration. At Derm.ca, we recommend Revoderm's HA + Prebiotics Serum as a prime example of this revolution. Powered by low molecular weight hyaluronic acid and potent prebiotic complexes, it delivers deep hydration while supporting your skin's natural defense mechanisms. The result? Skin that's stronger, calmer, and lit from within. For moms juggling endless responsibilities (and environmental stress), this type of daily barrier support is essential for long-term skin health—which is why our dermatologists make it a cornerstone of many treatment plans. Anti-Aging Products That Actually Deliver Results Here's the truth our Derm.ca specialists share with patients daily: aging is beautiful. Fine lines, laugh lines, a little wisdom in the mirror—these are signs of a life lived fully. But who says you can't slow down the aging process a little while preserving that natural glow? Modern anti-aging skincare at our clinic isn't about erasing expression—it's about boosting skin health from the inside out. Today's hero ingredients, like stabilized vitamin C, peptides, retinoids, and hyaluronic acid, work in synergy to rebuild collagen, improve skin tone, smooth texture, and increase elasticity. Our dermatologists frequently recommend Revoderm's Illuminous Antioxidant Serum as a standout product in this arena. It's packed with vitamin C, vitamin E, peptides, and antioxidants that brighten, protect, and deeply nourish the skin. Designed by dermatologists to combat oxidative stress (one of the primary accelerators of aging), this serum offers real, visible results over time. Moms who visit Derm.ca wanting serious skincare solutions without the fluff need products that are scientifically backed—and Illuminous is exactly that. And when our skincare specialists combine it with Revoderm's Multivitamin Moisturizer or Redness Relief Moisturizer , you're creating a skincare regimen that's both potent and pampering—a daily act of self-care and rejuvenation that every mother deserves. Technology Meets Skincare: The Rise of Microneedling RF Treatments at Derm.ca While great skincare forms the foundation of healthy skin, technology is providing the tools to take rejuvenation to the next level. Enter microneedling with radiofrequency (RF)—one of the biggest trends revolutionizing anti-aging treatments that we've pioneered at Derm.ca. Our advanced technologies like Morpheus8 and Profound RF use tiny needles to create microchannels in the skin while simultaneously delivering radiofrequency energy deep into the dermis. This dual-action process stimulates collagen and elastin production dramatically—helping to tighten skin, reduce wrinkles, fade scars, and lift sagging areas without surgery. At Derm.ca, our specialists are particularly renowned for our Morpheus8 treatments, famed for their skin-tightening abilities, delivering smoother, firmer, and more youthful skin with minimal downtime. Our Profound RF treatments, on the other hand, offer a "non-surgical facelift" that creates long-lasting lifting effects by precisely heating deep layers of the skin. As one of Canada's premier dermatology centers, we're proud to offer these cutting-edge treatments alongside customized skincare programs. Our dermatologists know that pairing Morpheus8 or Profound RF sessions with dermatologist-approved products like Revoderm's Illuminous Antioxidant Serum and HA + Prebiotics Serum amplifies results and ensures the skin heals beautifully. For mothers visiting Derm.ca wanting not just maintenance but true rejuvenation, these advanced therapies represent the best of science-meets-beauty. And the best part? You still look like you—just smoother, fresher, and more radiant. Why Skin Barrier Support Is More Important Than Ever One major lesson from our dermatology practice at Derm.ca is this: your skin barrier is everything. A compromised barrier is at the root of so many skin issues—sensitivity, dehydration, redness, breakouts, and premature aging. Spring 2025 trends put skin barrier care front and center in our treatment plans. Rather than aggressive peels or stripping cleansers, the focus is on nourishing, strengthening, and protecting the skin's natural defense layers. This is why our dermatologists recommend gentle yet active products like Revoderm's Hydrating Toner , HA + Prebiotics Serum , and Redness Relief Moisturizer as essentials. These formulas are specifically designed to calm inflammation, deeply hydrate, and protect the skin from environmental damage. By restoring barrier integrity, they help the skin retain moisture, resist irritants, and heal faster after aesthetic treatments—something we prioritize for all post-procedure care at Derm.ca.  For mothers dealing with hormonal changes, stress, or simply the toll of daily life, our dermatologists emphasize that supporting the barrier is the key to maintaining vibrant, healthy skin for years to come. If you're ingredient-obsessed (and who isn't?), you'll love the lineup of star players in the treatments and products we recommend at Derm.ca. Hyaluronic acid remains a hydration hero, but now brands like Revoderm are focusing on using different molecular weights of HA for multi-level hydration—penetrating deep into the dermis, not just sitting on the surface. Peptides are another must-have in our treatment protocols, helping to rebuild collagen and support firmness. Meanwhile, stabilized vitamin C is not just about brightening anymore—it's a powerhouse for antioxidant protection against pollution, UV rays, and blue light. Prebiotics and probiotics continue to rise in popularity in our practice, helping to regulate inflammation, repair the skin barrier, and create a healthier complexion overall. We're proud that Derm.ca is leading the way in integrating these ingredients into treatment plans that work for sensitive, aging, and acne-prone skin alike. The Beauty of Personalized Skincare at Derm.ca Customization is another huge trend we embrace at our clinic. Mothers know better than anyone that one-size-fits-all doesn't work—not for kids, not for life, and definitely not for skincare. Derm.ca's philosophy centers on this truth, offering routines tailored to individual skin concerns: whether you're battling pigmentation, rosacea, dryness, acne, or a combination. For example, a mom visiting our clinic with sensitive, redness-prone skin might receive a treatment plan featuring a daily combo of Hydrating Toner + HA + Prebiotics Serum + Redness Relief Moisturizer. Meanwhile, another mom focused on brightening and firming might leave with a personalized regimen featuring the Illuminous Antioxidant Serum + Retinol EyeLyte Complex + Age Defy Mineral Antioxidant Sunscreen. At Derm.ca, we firmly believe personalized skincare is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity for achieving real, sustainable results. Why Choose Derm.ca for Your Skincare Journey Created by dermatologists, backed by science, and designed with real women's lives in mind, our approach at Derm.ca isn't about quick fixes or empty promises. It's about empowering people with the tools to care for their skin wisely, effectively, and beautifully. What sets Derm.ca apart? Board-certified dermatologists with specialized training in aesthetic procedures Medical-grade products and treatments in luxurious, elegant surroundings A focus on skin barrier health, microbiome support, and holistic skin wellness No gimmicks—just real, clinically proven results In a world full of marketing hype, Derm.ca's commitment to honesty, transparency, and dermatological excellence is a breath of fresh air. For the busy mom who wants serious skincare without the noise, our clinic is the perfect partner. Honor Your Skin, Honor Yourself Being a mother is one of life's greatest adventures—and it deserves celebration at every stage. As you honor your inner strength and love, don't forget to honor your skin as well. Invest in rituals and treatments that nourish, protect, and celebrate you. Whether it's embracing probiotic skincare, exploring new anti-aging ingredients, or taking the plunge into technology-enhanced rejuvenation like our signature Morpheus8 treatments, there's never been a better time to prioritize your skin health at Derm.ca. Glowing, resilient skin is not just about looking beautiful—it's about feeling empowered, confident, and proud. With Derm.ca's expertise and the latest in dermatological innovation, that goal is more achievable than ever. Ready to honor your glow? Book your consultation at Derm.ca today—where science, soul, and a little sparkle come together to create the ultimate skincare experience for mothers.
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