Specific Skin Conditions · Dr Sin Yong · Orchard Road, Singapore

Photoacoustic Tattoo Removal

Precision laser tattoo removal using photoacoustic energy — breaking down ink pigments across all skin types and tattoo colours without scarring.

12 July 2021
Specific Skin Conditions

Photoacoustic Tattoo Removal

Tattoos are used to allow one to redefine themselves — to create a unique statement on their selected part of their body. Apart from that, tattoos are also used for permanent make-up such as eyebrows, coverage of scars, and micropigmentation to camouflage hair loss. Yet in certain circumstances, one may desire for them to be removed.

The Photoacoustic Laser Process

1. Tattoo Evaluation. This is crucial and determines how many sessions it will take. Key factors include your skin colour, tattoo location, ink colours, amount of ink, and any existing scarring or layering.

2. Photoacoustic Laser Treatment. The practitioner applies an optimal power level to treat the tattoo. Treating at optimal power results in fewer sessions than always treating at suboptimal power — a more efficient approach for complete clearance.

3. Post-Treatment Care. Blistering, bleeding, redness, swelling and scabbing are common after tattoo laser removal. Managing these correctly is essential to prevent scarring and pigmentation complications.

PiQ laser (picosecond) technology shatters tattoo ink into finer particles than traditional Q-switched lasers — enabling faster clearance in fewer sessions, with lower risk of textural change in the skin.

Consult Dr Sin Yong
WhatsApp →

Frequently Asked Questions

How does laser tattoo removal work?+

Laser tattoo removal uses high-intensity light pulses to shatter the tattoo ink into tiny particles, which are then cleared by the body's immune system over the following weeks.

How many sessions to remove a tattoo?+

Most tattoos require multiple sessions spaced 6–8 weeks apart. The number depends on ink colour, density, depth, age of the tattoo and skin type.

Does laser tattoo removal hurt?+

There is some discomfort, often compared to a rubber band snap. Topical anaesthesia and cooling are used to keep the procedure tolerable.

Can all tattoo colours be removed?+

Black and dark inks respond well. Some bright colours such as green and yellow are more stubborn. Dr Sin Yong assesses each tattoo and advises realistic expectations.

S
Dr Sin Yong
MBBS (NUS) · MRCS (Edinburgh) · MSc Aesthetic Medicine (London) · MSc Practical Dermatology (Cardiff)
International KOL — CLASSYS · HIRONIC · DEKA · ALMA · FOTONA · LUTRONIC