Client Resources

What Is IPL?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a light-based treatment that targets pigment, redness, and visible blood vessels in the skin, while also stimulating collagen for overall skin rejuvenation. Unlike a single-wavelength laser, IPL uses a broad spectrum of light, allowing us to target multiple skin concerns such as sun spots, freckles, redness, and uneven texture in one treatment.

Why Choose IPL?
For patients dealing with sun damage, redness, or uneven pigmentation who want a non-invasive option with no real downtime, IPL offers a well-established way to address several concerns in one session using the broad-spectrum light technology.

How Does It Work?
IPL delivers broad-spectrum light that is selectively absorbed by pigment (melanin) or blood vessels (hemoglobin) in the skin. This light energy converts to heat within the targeted structures, causing sun spots and freckles to darken and eventually flake off, and causing visible blood vessels to collapse and fade. The surrounding skin is left largely undisturbed, and the controlled heat also stimulates collagen production over time.

Key Features and Benefits of IPL
At a Glance
Non-invasive, no downtime beyond temporary redness
Treats sun damage, freckles, redness, and visible blood vessels in a single session
Broad-spectrum light allows treatment of multiple concerns at once
Stimulates collagen for gradual skin texture improvement
Quick sessions with minimal disruption to daily activities

Expected Results
Pigmented spots typically darken over the first few days, then flake off within 1-2 weeks, revealing lighter, more even-toned skin underneath. Redness and visible blood vessels tend to fade gradually over several weeks as the body clears the treated vessels. A series of treatments is generally needed for optimal results:

Pigmentation (sun spots/freckles): typically 3 treatments, spaced 3-4 weeks apart
Redness/visible blood vessels: often 3-6 treatments, about 4 weeks apart
Overall skin rejuvenation: commonly 3-6 sessions every 3-4 weeks, with maintenance once or twice a year

Important Safety Information
Possible Adverse Outcomes
Although rare, hyperpigmentation and/or hypopigmentation can occur
Skin texture changes and trace scarring are possible
Blistering/burns – Risk increases significantly if numbing ointment is used prior to treatment and must be avoided
Bleeding/bruising – Pinpoint bleeding or bruising can occur, particularly over treated vessels
Cold sore reactivation – Possible in HSV-prone patients undergoing facial treatment without antiviral prophylaxis

Contraindications
This Treatment May Not Be Right for You If You Have:
Recent sun exposure, an active tan, or recent use of sunless tanning products/tanning beds (within 4 weeks)
Recent laser treatments or chemical peels (within 4 weeks), or neurotoxin/filler injections (within 2 weeks)
Active use of retinoids, hydroquinone, or other active skincare products not yet discontinued as directed
A history of cold sores (HSV) in the treatment area without prophylactic antiviral coverage
An active infection, open wound, or sunburn in the treatment area
Use of isotretinoin within the past 6 months
Certain photosensitizing medications. Please disclose all current medications.
Pregnancy

INTENSE PULSED LIGHT (IPL) Pre-Treatment Instructions
2-4 Weeks Before Treatment:
Avoid direct sun exposure to the treatment site for 4 weeks prior to your session
Avoid sunless tanning beds/products (bronzers) for 4 weeks prior to your session
Do not wax, pluck, or use depilatory creams in the treatment area
Avoid laser treatments or chemical peels for 4 weeks prior to your session
Avoid neurotoxin or filler injections for 2 weeks prior to your session
Discontinue active products such as retinol or hydroquinone 3 days prior to treatment
Alert your provider of any medications you are currently taking, as some medications may affect the outcome of your treatment
Numbing ointment must be strictly avoided, as it can affect your results and increase the risk of blisters or burns
If you are prone to cold sores (HSV), notify us – you may need a prescription antiviral before facial treatments
3-5 Days Before Treatment:
Discontinue active skincare products in the treatment area, including retinoids (Retin-A, tretinoin), alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs/BHAs), vitamin C serums, and exfoliants/scrubs
Day of Treatment:
Arrive with clean skin \u2014 no makeup, lotion, deodorant, or sunscreen in the treatment area
Wear loose-fitting clothing if treating the body
Shave the treatment area 12\u201324 hours before, if needed (especially for hair-bearing regions)
Avoid caffeine and alcohol prior to your appointment

INTENSE PULSED LIGHT (IPL) Post-Treatment Instructions
First 24-48 Hours:
Mild redness, warmth, or swelling is normal and should subside within 1-3 days
Apply a cool compress or ice pack if needed for comfort
Cleanse the treated area twice daily using a gentle cleanser (e.g., CeraVe) and lukewarm water; pat dry
Do not apply makeup for at least 24 hours or until skin sensitivity subsides \u2014 apply sunscreen before makeup if going outside
Moisturize twice daily with a gentle, non-active hydrating product (e.g., CeraVe, Aquaphor, or Vaseline)
Drink at least 64 ounces of water per day
Avoid:
Activities that cause flushing or excessive perspiration/intense exercise, spicy foods, alcohol, hot tubs/saunas for 2 days
Picking or scratching any flaking or darkened spots (these will slough off naturally)
Retinoids, acids, or other active skincare products for at least 5-7 days or until skin is fully healed
Hair removal treatments (waxing, threading, plucking) for 2 weeks post-treatment
Sun Protection:
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily and reapply when outdoors, as skin will be sensitive – wear a zinc/titanium dioxide based sunscreen
Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks following treatment
Wear a 4-inch brimmed hat and sunglasses whenever possible
Additional Notes:
Dark spots may temporarily darken before fading over 7-14 days
Within 2-3 days, treated brown areas often become even darker and may feel scaly, like coffee grounds on the skin
Within 1-2 weeks, these dark, scaly areas fall off, leaving new, healthy skin behind
Repeat Treatments:
Book your next visit, as a series of treatments is required for optimal results (typically 3-5)

Contact Us if you experience excessive swelling, blistering, or signs of infection at (206) 486-0753.

What is a Laser Spectrum Erbium YAG treatment?
This laser delivers controlled pulses of laser energy to improve skin texture, wrinkles, pigmentation, and certain types of scarring through skin resurfacing and collagen stimulation.

What are special considerations to take when having a laser treatment?
Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment.
Avoid self-tanning or spray tanning products for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
Notify your provider if you have a history of cold sores or fever blisters. Preventive antiviral medication may be recommended.
Discontinue retinoids, retinol, hydroquinone, exfoliants, and other active skincare products at least 3 days before treatment unless otherwise directed.
Avoid neurotoxin or dermal filler treatments for 2 weeks before treatment.
Avoid IPL, laser procedures, microneedling, waxing, or chemical peels for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment unless approved by your provider.
Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, fish oil, and other anti-inflammatory medications or supplements for 72 hours prior to treatment unless medically necessary and approved by your prescribing provider.

What should I expect during the laser treatment?
You may experience sensations of heat, stinging, or a snapping sensation similar to a mild sunburn or pinprick. Temporary discomfort, redness, swelling, and skin sensitivity are expected and may last from several hours to several days depending on the depth of treatment.

How would I determine I am a candidate for this procedure?
Only if you are able to follow the post procedure precautions otherwise delay.
Avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sweating, saunas, hot tubs, swimming pools, and chlorine exposure for at least 1 week.
Avoid makeup until the skin has adequately healed, typically 5–7 days depending on treatment intensity.
Avoid active skincare ingredients such as retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, and exfoliants until the skin is fully healed, usually 7–14 days.
Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4–6 weeks after treatment.
Able to use a mineral sunscreen SPF 30 or higher daily once approved by your provider.
Willing to wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat whenever outdoors.

How do I prevent complications with this laser treatment?
lt is important to wear protective eyewear during the procedure and to keep my eyes closed to prevent eye injury from laser exposure.

Important Safety Information

Contraindications
This Treatment May Not Be Right for You If You Have:
An active infection, open wound, or sunburn in the treatment area
Recent sun exposure or use of sunless tanning products in the area
A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
Certain photosensitizing medications — please disclose all current medications
Pregnancy

While uncommon, possible risks and complications may include, but are not limited to:
Redness and swelling
Pain or discomfort
Dryness, peeling, or crusting
Infection or delayed healing
Acne or milia formation
Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
Persistent redness
Skin texture irregularities
Scarring or burns
Reactivation of herpes simplex (cold sores)
Unsatisfactory cosmetic results requiring additional treatments

Possible Adverse Outcomes
Although rare, hyperpigmentation and/or hypopigmentation can occur
Skin texture changes and trace scarring are possible
Skin turning ashen grey during treatment is a sign to stop immediately — your provider is trained to watch for this
No guarantees are implied as to the outcome of treatment
Blistering/burns – Possible if skin is not monitored carefully during treatment
Bruising – Pinpoint bruising can occur over treated vessels
Infection – Uncommon, but proper aftercare significantly reduces this risk

What results should you expect?
The results vary between individuals and that no guarantees or warranties can been made regarding the outcome of this treatment.
How many treatment sessions may be required?
Multiple likely needed to achieve desired results, and additional maintenance treatments.

Laser – Erbium – Pre-Treatment Instructions
Proper preparation before your Erbium laser treatment helps optimize results, reduce complications, and support a smoother recovery.
2–4 Weeks Before Treatment
Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment.
Avoid sunless tanning products for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment.
Avoid IPL, laser treatments, chemical peels, or other aggressive exfoliating procedures for 4 weeks prior unless otherwise directed by your provider.
Avoid neurotoxin or filler injections within 2 weeks of your treatment session.
Hydration & Skin Preparation
Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily for 2 days prior to treatment to support hydration and healing.
It is important to use any prescribed pre-treatment skincare products or medications exactly as directed by your provider.
Discontinue active skincare products such as retinols, tretinoin, hydroquinone, AHAs/BHAs, exfoliants, or irritating products at least 3 days prior to treatment unless instructed otherwise.
Medications & Supplements
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and fish oil supplements for 72 hours prior to treatment unless medically necessary or prescribed by your physician.
Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be used if needed.
Inform your provider of all medications, supplements, allergies, and medical conditions prior to treatment, as some may affect healing or increase the risk of complications.
Cold Sores / Herpes History
If you have a history of cold sores or fever blisters, notify your provider prior to treatment.
Preventative antiviral medication may be recommended to reduce the risk of reactivation.
Supplies to Have Ready at Home
Please have the following items available before your appointment:
A gentle cleanser such as Cetaphil® or CeraVe®
Aquaphor® or another occlusive healing ointment
Tylenol® for post-treatment discomfort
Soft gel ice packs or cool compresses
Mineral sunscreen SPF 30 or higher containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
Clean pillowcases and towels
Planning for Recovery
Plan for approximately 5–7 days of social downtime depending on treatment intensity.
Redness and swelling are expected after treatment.
You may appear sunburned immediately after the procedure.
Makeup is typically resumed once the skin has healed, generally around 5–7 days after treatment.
Avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sweating, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and chlorine pools for at least 1 week after treatment.
Plan to avoid direct sun exposure for 4–6 weeks after treatment. Healing skin is highly sensitive to UV exposure and may develop permanent discoloration if sunburned.
Day of Treatment
Arrive approximately 45 minutes early for topical numbing application unless instructed otherwise.
If numbing cream was provided ahead of time, apply exactly as directed by your provider, including below the brow and under-eye areas if being treated.
Wear comfortable clothing and avoid makeup, lotions, or skincare products on the treatment area.
Bring a clean wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to wear after your appointment.
Clean your phone, glasses, and other items that may touch your face after treatment.
Sleeping & Aftercare Preparation
Plan to sleep on your back with your head elevated on clean pillowcases for the first 48 hours after treatment.
Avoid letting direct shower water hit your face for at least 48 hours after treatment.
Plan to keep the skin continuously coated with a thin layer of Aquaphor® or ointment during the initial healing period.
Do not pick, scrub, or force peeling skin during recovery, as this may increase the risk of scarring or pigmentation changes.

Laser – Erbium – Post-Treatment Instructions
What to Expect
After your Erbium laser treatment, it is normal to experience:
Redness similar to a moderate sunburn
Warmth, tightness, or mild tenderness
Swelling, especially around the eyes
Peeling, flaking, or bronzing as the skin heals
Most discomfort is mild and typically improves within the first 1–2 hours after treatment.
Comfort & Swelling
Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be used if needed for discomfort.
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, naproxen, or aspirin) unless instructed otherwise by your provider.
Swelling is common. Sleep with your head elevated on clean pillowcases for the first 48 hours.
Cool compresses or soft gel ice packs wrapped in a clean cloth may be applied for 10–15 minutes at a time as needed.
Cleansing & Skin Care
Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your treated skin.
Cleanse gently using a mild cleanser such as Cetaphil®, CeraVe®, or a similar gentle cleanser.
Avoid scrubbing, exfoliating, washcloths, cleansing brushes, or aggressive rubbing.
Do not allow a direct stream of shower water to hit the treated area for at least 48 hours.
Moisture & Healing
Keeping the skin continuously moisturized is extremely important for proper healing.
First 24–48 Hours
Apply a thick, continuous layer of Aquaphor®, Vaseline®, or another occlusive ointment at all times.
Do not allow the skin to dry out, crack, or scab, as this may increase the risk of scarring or pigmentation changes.
Reapply ointment frequently throughout the day as needed.
Days 3–5
Oozing and crusting should gradually improve as new pink skin develops.
Once instructed by your provider, you may transition to a lighter fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer or barrier cream.
Important Hygiene Tips
Always use clean hands when applying ointment.
Use a clean utensil or cotton swab to remove product from jars to reduce the risk of contamination and infection.
Sun Protection
Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4–6 weeks after treatment.
Healing skin is highly sensitive to UV exposure and may develop permanent discoloration if sunburned.
Wear a mineral sunscreen SPF 30 or higher containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide whenever outdoors.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outside.
Activity Restrictions
For at least 1 week after treatment:
Avoid strenuous exercise
Avoid excessive sweating
Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and chlorine pools
Skin Products & Makeup
Do not use additional skincare products until peeling and flaking have stopped unless approved by your provider.
Avoid active ingredients such as retinoids, tretinoin, AHAs, BHAs, exfoliants, vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, or harsh acids until the skin is fully healed and back to baseline, typically 7–14 days.
Makeup may usually be resumed once the skin has healed, generally around 5-7 days.
Peeling & Healing
Peeling, flaking, and shedding are normal parts of the healing process.
Do not pick, scratch, scrub, or force peeling skin.
Premature removal of peeling skin may increase the risk of irritation, scarring, or pigmentation changes.
When to Contact Us
Please notify us immediately if you experience:
Increasing pain, redness, or swelling
Blistering
Signs of infection
Fever or drainage
Areas of skin turning gray, dark purple, or unusually dark
Treatment Frequency & Maintenance
Treatment recommendations vary depending on your skin concerns and treatment intensity.
Initial Treatment Series
Mild pigmentation or texture concerns: typically 1–2 sessions
Acne scars, deeper wrinkles, or more advanced resurfacing: typically 3–5 sessions
Treatment Spacing
Sessions are generally spaced 4–8 weeks apart
Some deeper resurfacing treatments may require longer healing intervals
Maintenance
Once desired results are achieved, many patients benefit from maintenance treatments every 6–12 months to support ongoing collagen production and skin rejuvenation.
Spot Treatments
Small isolated scars or lesions may require only a single treatment session.

What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a treatment that uses concentrated light energy to target hair follicles and reduce unwanted hair growth over a series of sessions. This uses a special laser (810nm diode wavelength)

How Does It Work?
The diode laser emits light that is selectively absorbed by melanin in the hair follicle. This energy converts to heat, damaging the follicle and impairing its ability to regrow hair, while leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. Because hair grows in cycles, only follicles in an active growth phase at the time of treatment are effectively targeted — which is why a series of sessions is needed to catch hairs across all growth phases.

Key Features and Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Reduces the need for shaving, waxing, or plucking over time
Targets multiple hair follicles and can treat larger areas more efficiently than manual hair removal methods
Minimal discomfort, often described as a mild pinprick or heat sensation
Non-invasive, no needles or incisions
Effective on a range of skin tones with appropriate settings
Minimal downtime — most patients resume normal activities same day
Long-term reduction in hair growth with a completed treatment series

Expected Results
Treated hairs may continue to appear for a short period before shedding — this is a normal part of the process, not a sign the treatment didn’t work. Hair shedding commonly begins within 5–14 days after treatment and may continue for up to 1–3 weeks. A full treatment series is typically needed for significant, lasting hair reduction, since laser targets hair only in its active growth phase.

Important Safety Information
Possible Adverse Outcomes
Although rare, hyperpigmentation and/or hypopigmentation can occur
Skin texture changes and trace scarring are possible
No guarantees are implied as to the outcome of treatment

Why Choose Laser Hair Removal?
For patients looking for a longer-term alternative to shaving, waxing, or plucking, the laser hair removal offers a well-established way to reduce unwanted hair growth over time, with sessions that fit easily into a normal routine and minimal downtime.

Important Safety Information

Possible Adverse Outcomes
Although rare, hyperpigmentation and/or hypopigmentation can occur
Skin texture changes and trace scarring are possible
Skin turning ashen grey during treatment is a sign to stop immediately — your provider is trained to watch for this
No guarantees are implied as to the outcome of treatment
Blistering/burns – Possible if skin is not monitored carefully during treatment
Bruising – Pinpoint bruising can occur over treated vessels
Infection – Uncommon, but proper aftercare significantly reduces this risk

Contraindications
This Treatment May Not Be Right for You If You Have:
An active infection, open wound, or sunburn in the treatment area
Recent sun exposure or use of sunless tanning products in the area
A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
Certain photosensitizing medications — please disclose all current medications
Pregnancy

LASER – HAIR REMOVAL – Pre-Treatment Instructions
Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and excessive heat to the treatment area for at least 3–4 weeks prior to treatment; use SPF 30+ daily on treated areas
Discontinue self-tanning or bronzing products for at least 3–4 weeks before your appointment
Do not wax, tweeze, thread, epilate, or use depilatory creams during your treatment series — shaving is permitted and encouraged
Shave the treatment area 12–24 hours prior to your appointment unless otherwise instructed
If treating facial areas, discontinue active skincare products (retinoids, hydroquinone, glycolic/salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide) for 5–7 days before treatment, or as directed
Inform your provider of all medications and supplements, especially antibiotics, Accutane, or other photosensitizing medications
Arrive with the treatment area clean, dry, and free of makeup, lotions, oils, deodorant, creams, or fragrances
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing

LASER – HAIR REMOVAL – Post-Treatment Instructions
Immediately After Treatment:
Mild redness, swelling, warmth, or sensitivity around hair follicles is normal and typically resolves within 24–48 hours
Day 1:
Cleanse the treated area gently twice daily using mild soap and lukewarm water; pat dry, do not rub
Apply a gentle moisturizer or aloe vera gel 2–3 times daily as needed for comfort
Cool compresses may be applied to reduce redness or irritation
Avoid hot showers/baths, saunas, steam rooms, strenuous exercise, hot tubs, or swimming pools for the first 24–48 hours
Day 2 and Ongoing:
Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for 1–2 weeks following treatment; apply broad-spectrum zinc-based SPF 30+ daily, reapplying every 2 hours outdoors
Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat whenever possible
If facial areas were treated, avoid retinoids, hydroquinone, exfoliating acids, and benzoyl peroxide for 5–7 days or until skin has fully recovered
Do not wax, tweeze, thread, epilate, or use depilatory creams between sessions — shaving is permitted
Beginning around day 4, gentle exfoliation may help speed the natural shedding process
Expect treated hairs to shed over 5–14 days, continuing for up to 1–3 weeks

Contact Us if you experience excessive swelling, pain, blistering, or signs of infection at (206) 486-0753.

What Is Long Pulse YAG Vascular Treatment?
The Long Pulse YAG is a laser treatment used to target and eliminate unwanted blood vessels, including facial veins, redness (such as rosacea or broken capillaries), and leg spider veins.

How Does It Work?
The laser emits a long pulse of light that is selectively absorbed by hemoglobin within the targeted blood vessel. This heats and damages the vessel wall, causing it to collapse. Your body then naturally reabsorbs the treated vessel over the following weeks, leaving the surrounding skin unaffected.

Key Features and Benefits of Long Pulse YAG
Effectively treats facial veins, redness, rosacea, broken capillaries, and leg spider veins
Permanently eliminates treated blood vessels
Safe for use on both face and legs
Minimal downtime with visible fading beginning within weeks and most patients resume normal activities same day.
Non-invasive, no incisions or needles
Safe across all skin types (Fitzpatrick I–VI)

Expected Results
Vascular removal typically requires 2–4 sessions overall, though the exact number and spacing depend on the treatment area:

Facial Veins & Redness (rosacea, broken capillaries): every 4–6 weeks, usually 1–3 sessions total. Facial skin is delicate and heals quickly, responding well to vascular laser treatment.

Leg Spider Veins: every 6–8 weeks (sometimes longer for larger vessels), usually 3–6 sessions total. Leg veins are under more pressure and often deeper, requiring more time to clear and heal between sessions.

You’ll typically begin to see significant fading within 2–6 weeks after a session. Treated veins are permanently eliminated, though laser treatment does not prevent new vessels from forming over time — some patients choose a touch-up session every 1–2 years if new spider veins develop.

Important Safety Information

Possible Adverse Outcomes
Although rare, hyperpigmentation and/or hypopigmentation can occur
Skin texture changes and trace scarring are possible
Skin turning ashen grey during treatment is a sign to stop immediately — your provider is trained to watch for this
No guarantees are implied as to the outcome of treatment
Blistering/burns – Possible if skin is not monitored carefully during treatment
Bruising – Pinpoint bruising can occur over treated vessels
Infection – Uncommon, but proper aftercare significantly reduces this risk

Contraindications
This Treatment May Not Be Right for You If You Have:
An active infection, open wound, or sunburn in the treatment area
Recent sun exposure or use of sunless tanning products in the area
A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
Certain photosensitizing medications — please disclose all current medications
Pregnancy

Laser – LONG PULSE YAG — VASCULAR TREATMENT – Pre-Treatment Instructions

Avoid direct sun exposure and sunless tanning products in the treatment area for several weeks prior to your session
Alert your provider of any medications you are currently taking, as some medications may affect the outcome of your treatment
Arrive with clean skin, free of lotion, makeup, or sunscreen in the treatment area

Laser – LONG PULSE YAG — VASCULAR TREATMENT – Post-Treatment Instructions

Immediately After Treatment:
Mild redness or warmth in the treated area is normal
Day 1:
Cleanse the treated area twice daily with gentle soap and lukewarm water, and pat dry
Apply a gentle moisturizer 2–3 times a day as needed
Day 2 and Ongoing:
Avoid applying active products such as retinol to the treatment site for 1 week
Avoid activities that cause flushing or excessive perspiration — exercise, spicy foods, alcohol, or hot temperatures — for 2 days
Avoid direct sun exposure for four weeks; apply zinc-based sunblock daily and reapply every two hours when outdoors; wear a 4-inch brimmed sun hat and sunglasses when possible
Schedule your next appointment if not already done so
Treatment Intervals:
Face: every 4–6 weeks
Legs: every 8–12 weeks

Contact Us if you experience excessive swelling, pain, blistering, or signs of infection at (206) 486-0753.

What Is Laser Tattoo Removal?
Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser tattoo removal uses ultra-short, high-intensity pulses of laser light to break down tattoo ink into smaller particles that your body gradually clears away on its own. The laser platform offers multiple wavelengths, allowing your provider to target a range of ink colors and depths.
How Does It Work?
The laser delivers extremely brief pulses of energy that pass through the skin and are selectively absorbed by tattoo pigment, shattering the ink into much smaller fragments. Over the following weeks, your body’s lymphatic and immune systems naturally metabolize and carry away these fragmented ink particles, causing the tattoo to progressively fade with each session.
Key Features and Benefits
At a Glance
• Non-invasive — no cutting or excision of skin
• Multiple wavelengths available to target different ink colors and depths
• Effective for both professional and amateur tattoos
• Minimal downtime compared to surgical removal methods
• Can be used across a range of skin tones with appropriate settings
Expected Results
Most professional tattoos require approximately 6–12 sessions for significant clearance or complete removal, spaced 6–8 weeks apart. Results depend on ink color, tattoo depth, your skin tone, and your body’s individual healing response. Progressive, gradual fading is expected with each session rather than immediate results.
Important Safety Information
Possible Adverse Outcomes
• Although uncommon, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation of treated skin can occur
• Changes in skin texture and trace or permanent scarring are possible
• Complete removal cannot be guaranteed — some fading, shadowing, or ghosting may remain
Why Choose This Treatment?
For patients seeking to fade or remove an unwanted tattoo without surgery, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment is a well-established, evidence-based approach that safely targets tattoo ink while minimizing downtime and preserving surrounding skin.

Benefits
• Gradual, controlled ink breakdown that minimizes damage to surrounding skin
• Can address multiple ink colors depending on the wavelength used
• Minimal downtime — most patients resume normal activities the same day
• Better preservation of skin texture compared to older removal methods

Contraindications
This Treatment May Not Be Right for You If You Have:
• An active infection or open wound in the treatment area
• A recent tan, active sunburn, or recent use of sunless tanning products on the area
• A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
• Use of isotretinoin within the past 6 months
• Certain photosensitizing medications — please disclose all current medications
• Pregnancy — to be discussed with your provider

Important Safety Information

Possible Adverse Outcomes
Although rare, hyperpigmentation and/or hypopigmentation can occur
Skin texture changes and trace scarring are possible
No guarantees are implied as to the outcome of treatment
Blistering/burns – Possible if skin is not monitored carefully during treatment
Bruising – Pinpoint bruising can occur over treated vessels
Infection – Uncommon, but proper aftercare significantly reduces this risk
Incomplete clearance – Some ink, shadowing, or color shift may remain even after multiple sessions

Laser – Tattoo Removal – Pre-Treatment Instructions
• Avoid direct sun exposure to the treatment site for 4 weeks prior to your session
• Avoid sunless tanning products on the treatment area for 4 weeks prior to your session
• Alert your provider of any medications you are currently taking, as some medications may affect the outcome of your treatment
• Shave the treatment area the morning of your session, as advised by your provider

Laser – Tattoo Removal – Post-Treatment Instructions
Immediately After Treatment:
• Apply a cold compress for discomfort — over-the-counter pain medication may also help
Day 1:
• Cleanse the treated area at least once daily in the shower with gentle soap and water, and pat dry
• After cleansing, apply a thin layer of occlusive ointment and cover with a non-stick dressing until healed
Day 2 and Ongoing (Until Healed):
• Continue daily cleansing, ointment, and dressing until the area is fully healed
• Avoid submerging the treated area in water until healed — showering is okay
• Do not pick, peel, or rub the treatment area throughout healing
• If blistering occurs, do not pop or pick at blisters — keep the area moist with occlusive ointment and covered with a non-stick dressing
• Once healed, avoid sun exposure to the treated area; apply zinc-based sunblock daily and reapply every two hours when outdoors
• Schedule your next appointment if you haven’t already done so
Why Session Spacing Matters
Laser tattoo removal treatments should generally be spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. This waiting period is essential to allow your skin to fully heal and give your immune system enough time to flush out the ink particles broken down by the laser.
• Optimal Healing: Treating the same area too soon increases the risk of skin damage, tissue scarring, and pigmentation issues.
• Lymphatic Processing: The laser doesn’t instantly erase the ink — it shatters it into smaller pieces. Your body’s immune system does the heavy lifting to naturally carry these ink particles away.
• Longer Fading Cycles: As treatment progresses and the tattoo fades, many specialists recommend extending the wait time between later sessions to 10–12 weeks to maximize fading and accommodate the slower removal rate of deeper ink.
What to Expect
• Total Sessions: Most professional tattoos require 6 to 12 sessions for significant clearance or complete removal.
• Variables: The exact number of sessions you will need depends heavily on the ink’s color, the depth of the tattoo, your skin tone, and your body’s individual healing response.

Contact Us If You Experience:
• Any indication of blistering that will not heal, or signs of infection
• Excessive swelling or pain that does not improve with cold compress and OTC pain medication
Contact Us at (206) 486-0753