Conditions · Pigment

Tattoo Regret

Tattoo ink sits as particles in the dermis, engulfed by cells that cannot break them down. Removal means fragmenting particles small enough for the body to clear.

Mechanism

What is actually happening

Laser energy is absorbed by ink particles and shatters them photoacoustically. Absorption is wavelength-dependent, which is why one wavelength cannot address every colour.

The distinction

How it is told apart

Black and dark blue absorb 1064 nm well. Red responds to 532 nm. Green and light blue require other wavelengths entirely. A clinic with one wavelength can only clear some of a multicoloured tattoo.

Assessment

What is established first

Ink colours present, depth and density, age of the tattoo, whether it is amateur or professional, prior removal attempts, and Fitzpatrick type.

Approach

What is typically done

Wavelength is matched to ink colour across a course of sessions. Our devices cover 1064, 532, 585 and 650 nm, which determines which colours can be addressed.

When treatment waits

When it is deferred

Some pigments — particularly certain whites, greens and cosmetic inks — respond poorly or can paradoxically darken. That is said before starting, not after.

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Frequently asked

What is tattoo regret?

Tattoo ink sits as particles in the dermis, engulfed by cells that cannot break them down. Removal means fragmenting particles small enough for the body to clear.

How is tattoo regret told apart from similar conditions?

Black and dark blue absorb 1064 nm well. Red responds to 532 nm. Green and light blue require other wavelengths entirely. A clinic with one wavelength can only clear some of a multicoloured tattoo.

What is assessed before treating tattoo regret?

Ink colours present, depth and density, age of the tattoo, whether it is amateur or professional, prior removal attempts, and Fitzpatrick type.

When is treatment deferred?

Some pigments — particularly certain whites, greens and cosmetic inks — respond poorly or can paradoxically darken. That is said before starting, not after.

Have this assessed

Every assessment is carried out personally by Dr Sin Yong, Medical Director. 9 Scotts Road, #12-01 Pacific Plaza.

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