LASERS & ENERGY
Tattoo Removal
Pico Laser Treatment for Gradual Tattoo Fading & Removal
OUR APPROACH
Some Tattoos Mark a Moment. Others Outlast Their Meaning.
Tattoo removal is a gradual process designed to fade unwanted tattoo pigment over a series of treatments.
Pico laser energy targets tattoo ink beneath the skin, breaking pigment into smaller particles that the body can gradually clear over time. Because every tattoo is different, treatment is planned according to factors such as ink color, tattoo age, pigment density and depth, location, skin characteristics, and your desired outcome.
Whether the goal is significant fading, preparation for a cover-up, or more complete removal, the focus is on a measured treatment plan with realistic expectations throughout the process.
HOW IT WORKS
Target the Ink. Break It Down. Let the Body Clear It.
Target
Pico laser energy is directed toward tattoo pigment beneath the skin.
Fragment
Ultra-short pulses break tattoo ink into smaller pigment particles.
Clear
The body gradually processes and clears fragmented pigment over time, resulting in progressive tattoo fading.
WHY PICO TECHNOLOGY
Short Pulses. Selective Ink Targeting.
Tattoo pigment is designed to remain within the skin, which is why removal typically requires specialized laser treatment and multiple sessions.
Pico laser technology delivers energy in ultra-short pulses that fragment tattoo pigment with less reliance on prolonged thermal heating of the surrounding skin.
Treatment response varies according to ink color, composition, depth, tattoo age, location, and individual skin characteristics. Different wavelengths interact with different pigment colors, so each tattoo is evaluated individually before treatment.
WHAT TATTOO REMOVAL CAN ADDRESS
Different tattoos. Different treatment goals.
Black Ink Tattoos
Black tattoo pigment is commonly targeted with the 1064 nm wavelength and is often among the more responsive colors to laser treatment.
Results vary depending on tattoo age, ink composition, color, depth, and individual response to treatment.
WHO IT’S FOR
For tattoos you are ready to change.
Tattoo removal may be appropriate for individuals looking to reduce or remove unwanted tattoo pigment, whether the goal is significant fading, more complete removal, or preparation for new artwork.
COMMON TREATMENT AREAS
Tattoo removal can be performed across many areas of the body.
Cosmetic and permanent makeup tattoos may require additional evaluation because some pigments can respond unpredictably to laser treatment.
YOUR APPOINTMENT
What to Know
Tattoo removal is a process, not a single treatment.
Tattoo removal typically requires a series of treatments, with recommendations based on the tattoo’s size, location, color, age, pigment density, and individual response.
Before Treatment
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✧ Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning before treatment.
✧ Make sure the treatment area is free of active irritation, infection, or open wounds.
✧ Follow any preparation instructions provided during your consultation.
After Treatment
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✧ Temporary redness, swelling, whitening (“frosting”), or sensitivity may occur after treatment.
✧ Keep the treated area clean and protected while it heals.
✧ Avoid picking at blisters, scabs, or healing skin.
✧ Protect the treated area from excessive sun exposure while it heals.
Timing Your Treatment
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Tattoo removal typically requires a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart, allowing the skin to recover and the body time to gradually clear fragmented pigment.
Recovery Timeline
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✧ First Few Days | Redness, swelling, or sensitivity typically begins to settle.
✧ Following Weeks | The body gradually processes fragmented pigment, and progressive fading may become more noticeable.
✧ Between Treatments | Additional sessions are generally spaced at least several weeks apart, with timing adjusted according to healing, tattoo characteristics, and treatment response.
Every Tattoo Has Its Own Story
No two tattoos respond exactly the same way to laser treatment.
Ink color, pigment density, tattoo age, depth, location, and individual skin characteristics can all influence how quickly a tattoo fades and how many treatments may be needed.
At MajorGlow, treatment is planned around the individual tattoo rather than a fixed protocol, with progress evaluated over time and expectations adjusted as the pigment responds.
Measured treatment. Progressive fading.
FAQ
Can colored tattoos be removed?
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Many colored tattoos can be treated with laser technology, but response varies according to the specific pigment, ink composition, depth, and wavelength used.
Different wavelengths interact with different ink colors, so each tattoo is evaluated individually to determine which pigments may be appropriate for treatment.
Does Pico laser tattoo removal hurt?
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Patients commonly describe treatment as a quick snapping sensation against the skin. Because Pico laser technology delivers ultra-short pulses of energy, treatment sessions are typically completed quickly and comfort measures can be used when appropriate.
Where can I get Pico laser tattoo removal in San Mateo?
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MajorGlow offers personalized Pico laser tattoo removal treatments in San Mateo for patients throughout the Bay Area seeking to fade or remove unwanted tattoos with minimal downtime.
How many tattoo removal treatments will I need?
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Most tattoos require a series of treatments to achieve significant fading or removal. The number of sessions depends on factors such as tattoo size, color, age, ink density, location, and your desired outcome.
Treatments are typically spaced several weeks apart to allow the body time to naturally clear fragmented pigment.
Is black ink easier to remove?
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Black tattoo pigment is often among the most responsive colors to laser treatment because it absorbs laser energy efficiently.
However, all tattoos respond differently, and treatment outcomes depend on multiple factors beyond pigment color alone.
Can Pico laser completely remove a tattoo?
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Significant fading may be possible, and some tattoos can become very difficult to see after a series of treatments. Complete removal, however, cannot be guaranteed.
Results depend on factors such as ink color, pigment composition, depth, tattoo age, location, and individual response. Your consultation is used to discuss realistic expectations for your specific tattoo.
Will tattoo removal leave a scar?
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Laser tattoo removal is designed to target tattoo pigment while limiting injury to surrounding skin. Temporary redness, swelling, blistering, or crusting can occur during healing.
Following aftercare instructions and allowing adequate recovery between treatments are important for reducing the risk of complications, including changes in pigmentation or scarring.
Can tattoo removal be used before a cover-up tattoo?
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Yes. Many patients choose to lighten an existing tattoo before cover-up work.
Reducing the visibility of existing pigment can provide greater flexibility when designing a new tattoo and may improve overall cover-up results.
THE MAJORGLOW JOURNAL
Related Reading
A Clearer Path Forward Starts With a Plan
At MajorGlow in San Mateo, tattoo removal is tailored to the individual tattoo, taking into account factors such as ink color, depth, density, age, location, and your desired outcome.
Whether your goal is substantial fading, preparation for a cover-up, or more complete removal, your consultation begins with evaluating the tattoo and setting realistic expectations for the treatment process.
Measured treatment. Progressive fading.