To schedule a consultation with our dermatologists for laser tattoo removal, contact our centers serving Santa Rosa, Berkeley, and other Bay Area communities.
Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area
165 Lynch Creek Way
Petaluma, California 94954
Phone: (707) 762-5531
Fax: (707) 762-5976
500 Alfred Nobel Drive, Suite 245
Hercules, California 94547
Phone: (510) 741-7418
Fax: (510) 741-7456
We see many people at Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area who have second thoughts about their tattoos. Earlier methods of tattoo removal often resulted in scars. However, advancements in laser technology now make it possible to remove tattoos safely, often without a visible scar. Our dermatologists use the state-of-the-art MedLite® C6 laser system for tattoo removal at our centers serving Santa Rosa, Berkeley, and surrounding communities, for the most advanced tattoo removal method available.
Earlier methods of tattoo removal using dermabrasion and other types of lasers often resulted in scars. Newer Q-Switched lasers are very effective at removing tattoos with a very low risk of scarring. We use the MedLite® C6 Q-Switched laser for tattoo removal at our centers near Santa Rosa, Berkeley, and Oakland. The MedLite® C6 can successfully remove professional, homemade (amateur), and other types of tattoos, often with a fade of greater than 95 percent.
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During the laser tattoo removal procedure, the MedLite® C6 laser light is focused on the skin with a handpiece. The laser produces short pulses of light that pass safely through the upper layers of skin and are absorbed by the tattoo ink. The laser light causes the ink to break into small particles, which are naturally eliminated by the body, leaving surrounding skin unharmed.
Laser tattoo removal can be uncomfortable for some, especially for the removal of a tattoo in a sensitive area or a tattoo that covers a large portion of the body. The pulses of light emitted from the laser have been described as feeling like being snapped with a rubber band. Anesthetic cream can be applied to the treatment area to make laser tattoo removal more comfortable.
It typically takes six to eight treatments to remove professional tattoos, and four to five treatments for amateur tattoos. Laser tattoo removal can be repeated every four to six weeks to allow time for the area to heal. The number of treatments you will need to completely remove the tattoo will depend on the type and depth of the ink in the skin. Dark colors, such as blue, black, and red are more responsive to the laser than lighter yellows and greens. Oranges and purples also fade well. Inks that are deeper in the skin will require more treatments.
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After a laser tattoo removal session, ice packs are applied to the treated area. Your skin may appear red and feel slightly tender. It is important to continue ice packs for the first 24-hours to diminish swelling. You must also keep the treated area clean, sun protected, and lightly moisturized. If a blister develops, you may gently pop it with a clean needle. A shower can be taken the day following laser tattoo removal.
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If you would like to learn more about laser tattoo removal, contact Dermatology Associates of the Bay area today to schedule a consultation. Our dermatologists can examine your tattoo and determine if you are a good candidate for laser tattoo removal.
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