Tattoo removal dates back to Egyption times. However, until the last decade, tattoo removal was often painful and left ugly scars. This changed with the development of laser tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal began in earnest in the late 80s, when the development of “pulsed” lasers made it plausible to perform medical procedures using lasers. The first procedures were performed using the Q-switched ruby lase. The ruby laser is more difficult to use on individuals with darker skin types, but it is still used today. The introduction of the Q-switched neodymiu: yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser (Nd: YAG) in 1991 helped the procedure become more common, due to the versatility and effectiveness of this particular laser. The Q-switched alexandrite and Candela pigmented lesion lasers add new dimensions as well.

Today, laser tattoo removal is widely-performed, with centers all over the United States. Because of the choice of lasers and decades of experience, laser tattoo removal has become an effective way to remove unwanted tattoos. It is now common to experience significant fading of a tattoo or complete tattoo removal. To find out what results you can realistically expect, find a center near you and schedule a consultation.