Nd:YAG Laser: The Q - switched Nd:YAG (Neodymium - doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet) laser is a popular choice. It emits light at wavelengths of 1064 nm and 532 nm. The 1064 - nm wavelength is effective for darker tattoo pigments like black and blue, as it can penetrate deeper into the skin to target the pigment particles. The 532 - nm wavelength is more suitable for lighter colors such as red, orange, and yellow. It works by delivering short, high - energy pulses that break the tattoo pigment into smaller fragments. These fragments are then removed by the body's immune system over time.
Ruby Laser: The Q - switched ruby laser has a wavelength of around 694 nm. It is highly effective for removing green and blue - black tattoos. The laser energy is absorbed well by melanin and tattoo pigments, causing the pigments to shatter into tiny particles. However, it may not be as effective for very deep tattoos due to its relatively shallower penetration depth compared to the Nd:YAG laser.
Alexandrite Laser: With a wavelength of about 755 nm, the Q - switched alexandrite laser is excellent for removing green and blue tattoos. It has a relatively long pulse duration, which allows for efficient energy delivery to the tattoo pigments. The alexandrite laser also provides good contrast between the laser energy absorption of the tattoo pigments and the surrounding skin tissue, minimizing damage to the skin while effectively targeting the pigments.
2. Picosecond Laser Tattoo Removal Machines
These machines use extremely short - pulse lasers, with pulse durations in the picosecond range (one trillionth of a second). The picosecond laser can break tattoo pigments into even smaller particles than the Q - switched lasers. For example, the picosecond 755 - nm alexandrite laser and the 1064 - nm Nd:YAG picosecond laser are commonly used. They are more efficient at fragmenting the pigment, which may lead to fewer treatment sessions and potentially better clearance of stubborn tattoo pigments. The picosecond lasers also tend to cause less damage to the surrounding skin due to their ultra - short pulses, reducing the risk of side effects such as hypopigmentation or scarring.
IPL devices emit a broad spectrum of light rather than a single wavelength like lasers. They work by targeting the tattoo pigments through a range of wavelengths. The light energy is absorbed by the pigment, heating it up and causing it to break down. However, IPL is generally less effective than lasers for tattoo removal. It is more often used for treating other skin conditions such as pigmented lesions and hair removal. But in some cases, for very superficial tattoos or for tattoos with certain pigments that respond well to the IPL wavelengths, it can be a complementary or alternative option.
