- Face
- Acne Scarring
- Anti-wrinkle injections
- CO2 Laser skin resurfacing
- Cool Laser
- CoolBleph
- Infinite-Thread Lift
- Lip Fillers
- Microblading Removal
- Picostar Laser
- Polynucleotide treatment
- Profhilo Treatment
- PRP Therapy
- Sculptra
Overview
Laser tattoo removal works by delivering ultra-fast pulses of energy into the ink, breaking pigment into smaller fragments so your immune system can clear it over time. Picosecond technology has been shown to improve fading compared with nanosecond lasers in controlled comparisons, particularly when parameters are matched.
We use PicoStar, a dual-wavelength picosecond platform (commonly 1064 nm and 532 nm) so we can target a broad range of inks, while keeping treatment precise.
What you can expect with us:
- A realistic plan, not over-promises
- Patch testing or cautious starting settings when appropriate
- A structured course with progress tracking
- Skin-first protocols to reduce downtime and complications
Procedure Overview
| access_time Duration | 15-30 mins |
| local_pharmacy Anaesthesia | Cold / Ice |
| king_bed Downtime | None |
| check_circle Final Result | 8-10 sessions |
| person Suitable for | All skin types |
The Process
We start with a proper assessment, because tattoo removal is not one-setting-fits-all.
We look at:
- Your skin type and tendency to mark or pigment
- Tattoo age, depth, professional vs amateur
- Ink colours and density
- Any existing scar tissue or texture change
- Your lifestyle factors, especially sun exposure and upcoming travel
We may reference a scoring system like Kirby-Desai to help set expectations around session numbers.
check_circle
Step 1: Consultation and suitability
check_circle
Step 2: Patch test or conservative start
check_circle
Step 3: Treatment session
check_circle
Step 4: Healing and clearance
check_circle
Step 5: Review and adjust
The Science behind PicoStar for Tattoo Removal
Results depend on the tattoo, your skin, and the ink. Some tattoos fade quickly, others take longer. A professional, multi-colour, heavily saturated tattoo will generally take more sessions than a small, older, black amateur tattoo.
In a controlled comparison clinical study, picosecond treatment produced significantly greater lightening than nanosecond treatment in many tattoos when other parameters were matched.
Clinical Study
A prospective controlled study comparing picosecond and nanosecond lasers for tattoo removal found that picosecond technology achieved significantly greater tattoo lightening under matched treatment conditions. The shorter pulse duration creates a stronger photoacoustic effect, breaking ink into smaller particles that the body can clear more efficiently. Importantly, safety profiles were similar between devices, supporting picosecond lasers as an effective and evidence-based option for improved tattoo fading.
FAQS
Treatment Questions
-
How many sessions will I need? add_circleIt depends on skin type, location, colours, ink density, scarring, and whether it is layered. Tools like the Kirby-Desai scale can help estimate treatment numbers, but it is still an estimate, not a promise.
-
Does picosecond tattoo removal work better than older lasers? add_circleOften, yes, but not always. In some controlled studies, picosecond lasers achieved better fading than nanosecond lasers under matched conditions. However, outcomes vary by tattoo and ink, and there is ongoing debate in the literature, which is why we focus on personalised parameters and safe progression, not hype.
-
What is the downtime after tattoo removal? add_circleMost patients have redness, warmth, and mild swelling for 24 to 72 hours. Some have blistering or scabbing, especially with dense ink or higher settings. You can usually return to work the same day or the next day.
-
Is tattoo removal painful? add_circleIt can be uncomfortable. Many people describe it as a quick snapping sensation. We can discuss topical numbing options and cooling to make it more manageable.
-
What are the risks and safety considerations? add_circleThe main risks of laser tattoo removal include temporary redness, swelling, blistering, and changes in skin pigment, with scarring being uncommon but possible if the skin is treated too aggressively or aftercare is not followed. We minimise these risks through careful assessment, appropriate settings, and clear post-treatment guidance.
-
Can you remove all ink colours? add_circleSome colours respond better than others. Dual wavelength platforms help target a broader range of inks. That said, certain pigments can be resistant, and some cosmetic inks behave unpredictably. This is exactly why the consultation matters.
-
Is picosecond laser safer for darker skin types? add_circleWhen used correctly with appropriate wavelengths and settings, it can be used safely across a range of skin types, but practitioner experience is key.
-
Will it leave a scar? add_circleScarring is uncommon when treatments are properly spaced and aftercare is followed.
-
Can it completely remove my tattoo? add_circleSome tattoos clear almost entirely, while others fade significantly but may not disappear 100 percent.
-
Why is picosecond tattoo removal more expensive? add_circleThe technology is more advanced and costly to run, and often requires specialised training.
What now?
Your expert consultation
We take the time to listen, assess and advise properly. All treatments at Riverbanks Clinic begin with a detailed in-clinic medical consultation with one of our practitioners. This ensures an accurate diagnosis, a clear treatment plan and that any treatment offered is appropriate, safe and in your best interests.
To arrange your consultation, please contact the clinic directly on 01582 762877.
TESTIMONIALS
OUR PATIENTS LOVE OUR
RELAXING CLINIC
Patients love coming to Riverbanks for two key reasons: our expert team and the exceptional results we deliver. With highly skilled practitioners who prioritise patient care and cutting-edge treatments tailored to individual needs, every visit is a reassuring and results-driven experience in a welcoming, professional environment.