Tattoo Removal in Victoria, BC (PicoSure Picosecond)
You can safely lighten unwanted tattoos and, in many cases, remove them. Laser tattoo removal remains the clinical standard when performed by trained specialists using medical-grade devices. At Amendermis Laser Clinic in Victoria, BC, we use PicoSure technology. This helps us remove both black and coloured ink accurately.
For information on modern laser methods, check the American Academy of Dermatology’s overview of laser tattoo removal.
How laser tattoo removal works
Tattoo ink resides in the skin as concentrated pigment particles. Laser pulses enter the skin and fragment those particles into smaller pieces. The body’s immune system then clears the debris over time.
Picosecond pulses occur within one trillionth of a second. This timing creates a strong photoacoustic effect. It disrupts ink and limits heat in nearby tissue. This helps with comfort and steady fading (DermNet: Picosecond laser).
Wavelengths and colour response
Different wavelengths target different ink colours and depths:
755 nm (alexandrite): effective for black, blue, and green inks.
532 nm: useful for red, orange, and yellow inks that often require specialized settings.
PicoSure uses a 755 nm wavelength and has an optional 532 nm handpiece. This expands its ability to treat complex colour mixes (DermNet; peer-reviewed overview of 755 nm + 532 nm: PMC). Manufacturer details: Cynosure PicoSure (platform page).
Treatment planning and expected session count
Laser removal works best as a series with recovery time between visits. Many professional tattoos require about 6–12 sessions, typically spaced 6–8 weeks apart. Final timelines vary with size, ink density, colour combination, body location, skin type, and adherence to aftercare (Cleveland Clinic).
Factors that influence progress
Ink and colour. Black ink typically clears fastest. Blue and green inks often respond well to 755 nm. Red, orange, and yellow inks usually require 532 nm and may need additional passes (DermNet: lasers in dermatology).
Depth and saturation. Layered or deeply packed ink requires more sessions than lightly saturated or amateur work.
Placement and circulation. Areas with lower blood flow (e.g., ankles) can clear more slowly .
Comfort, safety, and downtime
Treatments are brief. Many clients describe a sensation similar to rapid pinpricks or snaps.
The team uses cooling and other comfort measures throughout the procedure. Temporary redness and swelling are common and generally settle quickly.
With trained providers and medical-grade devices, scarring is uncommon. The technician sets the energy, spot size, and pass count for the specific tattoo and skin type (Cleveland Clinic).
Aftercare for optimal results
Consistent aftercare supports healing and predictable fading.
Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24 hours.
Avoid sun exposure, heat, and friction; postpone pools and hot tubs during initial healing.
Avoid picking at blisters or scabs if they form; allow natural resolution.
After initial healing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to reduce the risk of pigment changes.
General skin-care guidance during healing windows: Cleveland Clinic tattoo aftercare (article).
Cosmetic tattoo removal (brows, lips, eyeliner)
Cosmetic tattoos use distinct pigments and occupy sensitive areas. Treatment planning emphasizes pigment behaviour, skin safety, and ocular protection where relevant. Picosecond settings offer precise control for tasks like eyebrow tattoo fading. A consultation determines appropriate parameters and eye protection for eyeliner.
Why picosecond—and why PicoSure
Earlier Q-switched platforms set the baseline for tattoo removal. Picosecond systems advanced outcomes by shortening pulse duration and increasing photoacoustic impact on dense pigments. PicoSure uses a popular 755 nm wavelength.
It also has an optional 532 nm handpiece for “sunset” colours. This helps provide complete colour coverage. Manufacturer information: Cynosure PicoSure (details).
Results to expect
Results can vary from almost complete removal to a faint leftover “shadow.” This depends on the colour mix, ink depth, skin type, and treatment schedule. Photographs document progress, and we adjust parameters as fading improves. The objective is consistent lightening while maintaining healthy skin.
Practical planning for Victoria, BC clients
Consultation. Assessment of colours, placement, skin type, and goals; creation of a personal plan.
Cadence. Establish a schedule (commonly every 6–8 weeks) and maintain spacing.
Sun protection. Minimize UV exposure between visits to reduce pigment shift and delays.
End point. Define whether the goal is complete removal or lightening for a cover-up.
Costs. Choose single sessions or package options; total cost aligns with size, density, and session count.
Selecting a clinic (what to verify)
Demonstrated experience with picosecond systems.
Access to multiple wavelengths (e.g., 755 nm + 532 nm).
Clear before-and-after documentation and consistent client reviews.
Transparent pricing and realistic timelines.
At Amendermis Laser Clinic in Victoria, BC, clients are seen by a trained laser specialist at every visit. PicoSure picosecond technology helps fade black and colour ink in a predictable way. Tailored to the client’s skin, schedule, and goals. Key facts (concise reference).
Session length - Laser time for small areas is typically a few minutes, plus cooling and aftercare review.
Initial fading - You may see lightening after the first few sessions. Full clearance takes time and regular spacing (Cleveland Clinic).
Partial removal - You can target specific elements (e.g., a name) to prepare for a cover-up.
Durability - Cleared ink does not reappear; you can treat residual traces with additional sessions.
Colour Response - Blue and green respond well to 755 nm. Red, orange, and yellow often need 532 nm (DermNet).
Why choose Amendermis (Victoria, BC)
PicoSure picosecond platform for targeted, efficient fading
755 nm + 532 nm options for black and colour tattoos
Personal care from a local specialist at each appointment
Structured plans for full removal or cover-up lightening
Trusted results across Greater Victoria
Book a consultation with Amendermis Laser Clinic in Victoria, BC. Review your tattoo, confirm details, and start a safe plan for picosecond tattoo removal.