Tattoo Removal

Patient will still need 1-2 more treatments for complete removal

Actual patients of Reset Medspa

Patient will still need 1-2 more treatments for complete removal

Actual patients of Reset Medspa

At Reset Medspa, we are proudly the first office to have the PicoWay laser in downtown Chicago. This laser uses the fastest technology on the market to shatter the ink particles into smaller, dust-like particles. Then, the body’s immune system picks up the particles and removes them away from the area. 

Why the PicoWay?

Using a picosecond laser allows providers to deliver high power with the shortest laser pulses available. Ultra-short pulses create more of a photoacoustic effect rather than a photothermal approach. This decreases side effects and downtime.

The PicoWay laser is safe on all ink colors. Our laser has 3 different wavelengths between 2 handpieces to specifically target different colors. 

How to prepare for your appointment?

Avoid sun exposure, including tanning beds and sunless tanning products, for a minimum of 2 weeks prior to your treatment. Sun exposure, tanning, and sunless tanning products can decrease the effectiveness of the laser treatment, and increase the chance of post-treatment complications.

If possible, discontinue any photosensitizing medications 2-4 weeks prior to treatment. If you are unable to discontinue these medication(s), it is imperative you alert your practitioner prior to each treatment.

Accutane should be discontinued for a period of 6 months prior to receiving treatment, and should not be used during the course of treatment.

Waxing in the area of treatment must be avoided for 2 weeks prior to treatment to avoid skin sensitivity. Patients are encouraged to shave the area before treatment.

Ensure the treatment area is clean and the skin is intact (no blisters, wounds, bleeding, scabs, etc.). If the skin in the treatment area is not intact we will reschedule your appointment to avoid potential post-treatment complications. 

What to expect at your appointment?

A picture will be taken of your tattoo for your medical record to monitor the progress of tattoo removal.

To maximize comfort, a medical-grade topical numbing cream is offered. It is applied to the treatment area for 15-20 minutes

After the numbing cream is wiped off, the physician assistant will trace over the tattoo with the laser beam while simultaneously blasting cold air onto the treatment area. 

The treatment area will be covered with a thin layer of petroleum jelly and a breathable, clear bandage will be applied on top. 

Tattoo removal Post-procedure care

Immediately following your tattoo removal session you can expect to experience any of the following side effects in the area of treatment:

• Frosting (whitening over tattoo)
  
• Erythema (redness)
• Edema (swelling)
• Superficial bleeding and wound formation
• Bruising

These are all normal, temporary side effects of laser tattoo removal. These skin changes may resolve within hours to days following the treatment. During or after the resolution of the above side effects patients may also experience:

• Blisters
• Scabs
• Crusts
• Peeling
• Itching
• Prolonged erythema (redness)
• Temporary changes in skin pigmentation (pink/pale discoloration or darkening)

It is important to care for and protect the treatment area while it’s in the process of healing. See the instructions below:

• We recommend applying SPF 30+ for 3 months following the treatment. 
  
• Keep the treated area clean while it’s healing. For cleaning; use a gentle skin cleanser and water, and pat the area dry.
• It is recommended that you apply Aquaphor (or a similar product) to the treatment area at least 2-3 times per day while healing.
• If the treated area is painful or slightly swollen, you may apply a cold compress following the laser treatment. We recommend treating the area for no longer than 15 minutes at a time.
• If you are experiencing pain following your treatment, we recommend taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) to relieve your discomfort.
• If any scabs, crusts, or blisters should form following the treatment DO NOT PICK them. Removing scabs or blisters prematurely could result in infection and/or scarring. If you are concerned about the treatment area, please call the office for additional wound care instructions.
• It is recommended that you avoid swimming in lakes, pools, hot tubs, etc. for at least 5 days following treatment.

To find out more about our customized procedures, call our office at+1 (910) 565 9616, or request an appointment online.