Of course, Davidson has a lot more tattoos than the average person. His reasoning for tattoo removal ultimately isn’t much different than one of the most common reasons—excessive ink can get in the way of your career. This is a key reason why tattoo removal is on the rise. Today’s lasers are so powerful that they can work towards removing even old, deeply-set ink in all colors. Gone are the days when tough colors like yellow and green were untreatable. Thanks to the latest technology, tattoo permanency is no longer part of the package—and removing that facet of ink has also undone some of its desirability for some clients.

How Tattoo Removal Works

Some lasers have the ability to target unwanted pigmentation (like tattoo ink), breaking it into tiny fragments that the body then metabolizes and expels. It takes multiple sessions for optimal results, with requisite rest periods between sessions. Exactly how many treatments you will need will vary based on a variety of factors. Some people are wary of laser tattoo removal because they fear the discomfort will be more intense than the initial tattoo. That may have been true of lasers past, but today’s laser tattoo removal (coupled with numbing agents) equalizes the discomfort comparisons.

Instead, Davidson told Seth Meyers that the real pain of tattoo removal is getting reminded of ink and decisions that no longer align with who he is. Since the provider removing the tattoo verbally confirms which ink is being treated right before each session, clients get one last chance to keep their ink or, like in Davidson’s case, be reminded of past decisions. “All of a sudden, I’ll just hear, ‘are we keeping the Stewie Griffin smoking a blunt?’” Davidson shared.

We Aren’t Who We Used to Be

People change, and thanks to laser tattoo removal how we look can evolve along with us. Many people who opted for a tattoo at 18 (or even last year) simply don’t resonate with that imagery anymore. There are also many people who, unfortunately, didn’t receive a quality tattoo in the first place. They may have loved an image, but it just didn’t translate with their tattoo experience. In these cases, sometimes clients want a tattoo removed so they can clear up skin for a new, better tattoo. There are still plenty of tattoo lovers, and having enough “real estate” is a must if you want to keep pursuing new ink.

There is also a recent trend of so-called “traditional” tattoos making a re-emergence. Quannah Chasinghorse, the Hän Gwich’in and Oglala Lakota model, is perhaps one of the celebrities making the biggest wave at the moment when it comes to highlighting traditional chin tattoos. She was the first of her generation to opt for the tattoo, which she received from her mother at 14 years old. Many Indigenous tribes, particularly in the region now often called Alaska, used to wear facial tattoos to signify a number of milestones. The near-disappearance of this tradition is one of the many fallouts of colonialism, but younger generations like Chasinghorse are bringing back this stick and poke technique as they reclaim and celebrate their culture and heritage.

Is Tattoo Removal for You?

If you have a tattoo that no longer suits you, whether you want to clear up your skin for good or make room for new ink, lasers are powerful tools that can tackle even the most stubborn tattoos. Complimentary consultations are available at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care for all treatments, including tattoo removal. Schedule yours today by calling the office or simply complete the online form for the quickest response.

The post What’s Driving the Tattoo Removal Trend? appeared first on Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care.

The pandemic caused a curious surge in some markets, including tattoo shops and plastic surgery. Right now, it’s not uncommon to find popular tattoo artists booked over a year out. There are many theories behind this. Some people think we are looking for some sign of permanence after nearly two years of uncertainty. Others consider it a form of therapeutic expression after so much isolation. There’s also the fact that Americans have been putting more towards savings and paying off bills since 2020—couple that with newfound work flexibility, and it’s simply more accessible to get tattoos than ever before.

However, not all tattoos are a good idea. For those who are regretting that decision, there are options.

Choices for Tattoo Removal

Why do we have two options for tattoo removal? It’s simple: not every person, or every tattoo, is the same. Alex TriVantage treats not only tattoos but also other forms of hyperpigmentation including spots, moles, birthmarks, and freckles. Studies have shown that around half of people who get a tattoo later regret it, which is the core reason behind Alex TriVantage’s creation. It’s considered one of the safest and best options for laser pigment removal because it can target the tattoo perfectly while leaving nearby skin intact. You might see some redness and/or discoloration immediately after each treatment, but this typically subsides quickly if post-treatment care is followed.

Compared to older methods for tattoo removal, the Alex TriVantage option is relatively comfortable. In fact, although anesthetic is offered, most patients do not require it. It is most often compared to the feeling of a rubber band snapping against the skin, similar to other types of laser skin resurfacing treatments. There is also a far reduced chance of scarring or unwanted skin texture changes compared to older technologies.

Good candidates for the Alex TriVantage are those with unwanted pigments, including tattoos, and this technology can be used on all skin tones and with all types of tattoos. However, the number of sessions needed and how effective each treatment will be depends on many factors including the tattoo’s color and age, size, shape, depth, and the condition of the skin. No matter which laser is used, smaller tattoos need fewer pulses for optimal results. Every tattoo is going to require multiple treatments and the exact number of treatments needed will be estimated during your complimentary consultation.

Picoway for Tattoo Removal

The Picoway laser is another great option for tattoo removal, and you can even combine the Picoway with the Alex TriVantage option in some cases. This laser emits light that blasts the ink into microscopic pieces that are then harmlessly absorbed and expelled by the body. Like the Alex TriVantage, this happens without nearby tissue being harmed. In many cases, clients find that there are fewer sessions needed with Picoway compared to other options (though keep in mind every tattoo removal is unique and the number of sessions always varies person to person).

The Picoway laser can treat the full tattoo ink spectrum, even traditionally stubborn hues like green, because it doesn’t emit just one light color. Black is the easiest color to treat because it absorbs all laser wavelengths, but other colors are tougher—that’s not an issue with the Picoway. This state-of-the-art system provides bursts of energy in very short durations for optimal comfort. In fact, the Picoway has the shortest pulse duration and the highest peak power by 40% compared to other lasers according to its manufacturer.

Getting Ready for Tattoo Removal

If you’re thinking about removing your tattoos, you absolutely need the best lasers and the best providers. At this medical day spa, Zuzana Likar trains staff members to the highest standards so you can rest easy knowing you’re in the best of hands. Schedule your complimentary tattoo removal consultation at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today by calling the office or filling out the online form.

The post We’re On the Verge of Tattoos Going Out of Style: What You Can Do When You’re Over Your Ink appeared first on Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care.

The Alex TriVantage features wavelengths including 755nm, 1064 nm, and 532nm, this means we can treat even the most complex of tattoos. This laser can also treat a variety of pigmented lesions, meaning that you can remove tattoos and other colored spots in one appointment. This laser has won the American Spa’s Professional’s Choice Awards because it combines a lot of power with a soft touch. Get optimal laser energy delivery while reducing skin injury and downtime.

No Color is Too Tough

In year’s past, only certain tattoos could be removed. “Fading it” was a better term for those with colored tattoos, but state of the art technology has changed everything. The Alex TriVantage can even reduce the visibility of greens and blues. You can enjoy the same performance of pigment disruption regardless of the tattoo color with intense pulsed-laser (IPL) tech. For those who also want to get rid of lentigines, freckles, age spots, and other benign colored spots, this laser might be a great fit.

The PicoWay laser is another great option for tattoo removal. It’s often considered the gold standard and has also been FDA-cleared to help with wrinkles, acne scars, and benign pigmented areas. However, it’s the ability to remove even deep and stubborn colors that makes the PicoWay option stand out. Currently, it offers the quickest pulses of any other picosecond laser available. That means it’s more comfortable and there’s no downtime.

How PicoWay Works

A picosecond is one trillionth of a second. These extra-short pulses cause photoacoustics, which minimizes some of the side effects common in earlier tattoo removal lasers including scarring and extended downtime. Skin might look a little pink for a few hours after your treatment, but clients can immediately get back to their usual daily activities. You can even apply your usual skin care products and makeup right after getting tattoo removal.

PicoWay lasers get below the skin to break up pigments. Unwanted pigments are destroyed so quickly that there’s no chance for the skin to overheat. Whether you want to vanquish a tattoo or a collection of melanin that presents as a dark spot, PicoWay can be a great fit for your skin goals. Simultaneously, it kick-starts collagen production—the secret to youthful and glowing skin.

Clearing Up Your Skin with the Right Lasers

It seems like it’s more common in the United States for a person to have a tattoo than not. As more and more people are interested in tattoo removal, technology is keeping pace. You will need multiple sessions no matter which laser is used, with the exact number depending on multiple factors such as the age of the tattoo, colors, and depth. However, you will also start to see results shortly after each session. Once unwanted pigments are vaporized with the laser, the fragments will be safely and naturally absorbed and removed by the body.

There are many reasons a client is interested in tattoo removal. Some just no longer like their tattoos, it could be a poor-quality tattoo, and some clients want to “clear up space” for new, better tattoos. No matter your reason for wanting tattoo removal, it’s important to work with an expert who has the tools and experience to achieve the best results.

Results You’ll Love

Tattoos don’t have to be forever—and neither do other kinds of pigmented lesions. Lasers are capable of quickly and safety getting rid of ink that no longer suits you. “Forever” is a lot longer than many people expect, and it can be nearly impossible to choose a design that you’ll love for life. However, beautiful, clear skin is always in style.

Both the PicoWay and Alex TriVantage are able to tackle even the toughest of tattoos. If you have a multi-colored tattoo, a tattoo that sits deep in the skin, or a tattoo that is several years old, that is no longer a reason to have to keep it forever. The right laser can drastically reduce its appearance. Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care offers complimentary consultations on all cosmetic procedures. Complete the contact form online now to book your complimentary consult or call the office today.

The post No Tattoos are the New Tattoos: Remove More Ink Now appeared first on Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care.

Gone are the days in which tattoos are forever. There are many reasons a person may want to remove a tattoo. Perhaps it no longer resonates with them or maybe they want to clear up some space for a newer, better tattoo. No matter your reason for seeking out tattoo removal, bear in mind that not all devices are created equally. Older technologies were known for fading tattoos, not removing them. These outdated devices also struggled with tattoos that were deeper in the tissue or had certain colors, such as blue or green. PicoWay and Alex TriVantage deliver unprecedented results so that you can fade your tattoos faster and more completely.

Why PicoWay is Different

PicoWay shatters the tattoo ink into tiny particles that are then absorbed and expelled by the body. This means that you will not see immediate results. It is going to take the body a few weeks to metabolize the ink and remove it, so you will see the ink slowly fade more and more after each session. Every client will need multiple sessions in order to fade the tattoo as best as possible. However, the exact number of sessions can vary greatly person to person depending on the size of the tattoo, age, depth, and colors.

The PicoWay laser system is known for its immense power coupled with very short pulse durations. It can get far below the skin’s surface quickly, breaking it into pieces so small they are invisible to the naked eye (though there will be many pieces, which is why you will continue to see the ink for a few weeks post-treatment). Those ultra-short pulses are critical because that’s part of what makes PicoWay the most comfortable tattoo laser system available.

What to Expect During PicoWay Tattoo Removal

We prioritize your health, safety, and comfort which is why we aim to make tattoo removal as comfortable as possible. First, a numbing agent is applied. The laser process itself features very short pulses that pack a lot of punch. Many clients do start to see results after just one treatment. Although tattoo removal has long been thought of as much more painful than getting a tattoo, a numbing cream combined with PicoWay’s hyper-short pulses have made many clients compare the feeling as similar to getting the tattoo.

PicoWay is also different than other lasers used for tattoo removal because it is photoacoustic, not photothermal. PicoWay is FDA-cleared for additional uses as well including acne scars, dark spots, and wrinkles. It is common to experience redness, tingling, swelling, and sometimes pinpoint bleeding after a PicoWay treatment. However, these side effects are temporary. Clients feel confident getting back to their daily tasks right after their session without the need for down time.

Are You Ready for Tattoo Removal?

Tattoo artists have reported that there has been an increase in requests for large tattoos during the pandemic, and this trend is expected to continue. This is likely due to people having time to more deeply consider body art, or because they want to commemorate an especially critical time in their life. Removing a tattoo is the best way to achieve the results you want rather than attempting a cover up. There’s no need to “settle” on a modified tattoo that requires cover up techniques when you remove the tattoo that no longer represents you.

Of course, if you’d rather achieve a “clean slate” entirely, the new PicoWay can help with that, too. Learn more about tattoo removal or schedule your complimentary consultation by completing our online form or calling Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care at (408) 688-2082.

The post Trust the PicoWay Device for Tattoo Removal appeared first on Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care.

The safest and most effective lasers and energy-based devices can address every skin concern you have, from hyperpigmentation to scarring and fine lines or wrinkles. Not every laser or energy device is suitable for all skin issues or skin types, though. Knowing that you are working with the leading skin care center in Palo Alto that is home to one of the largest collections of technologies gives you peace of mind because you know you have access to everything you need.

Why Lasers and Energy Devices?

There are many different types of lasers and energy devices, each designed to treat different skin types and a number of common skin conditions. From laser hair reduction to minimizing eczema and psoriasis, these devices do what years of prescription medications and over the counter creams are sometimes incapable of doing. They can work both at the superficial level of the skin and deep below the surface depending on your needs, skin, and goals.

For clients with more melanin, you already know that a lot of outdated devices weren’t designed with your skin in mind. That has changed in recent years. There are plenty of devices that work wonderfully for melanin-rich clients without causing damage (such as unwanted lightening at treatment sites). We are committed to helping every client enjoy the results that they deserve, which is why we are known for having one of the largest collections of devices in the Palo Alto area including Fraxel Dual, Clear and Brilliant, PicoWay, and IPL/BBL at our clinic.

Start Your Skin Care Routine Today

Many devices offer some immediate results, and there are certainly devices and settings that ensure little to no downtime. This means that you can opt to start a treatment and immediately go about your daily tasks looking younger, healthier, and happier with more vibrant skin. Other laser and energy treatments are more aggressive, “damaging” deep within the tissue in order to stimulate collagen production and ultimately reveal rejuvenated skin in the days and weeks following the treatment.

Our experts work with you to determine your goals and we work around your schedule. However, no matter how aggressive a laser treatment may be, rest assured that it is still far less damaging than a surgical treatment. Whether you need your skin to look instantly more beautiful with no down time, you have carved out a one-week healing period, or you want dramatic results and can plan around a longer recovery time, we have the device that will deliver the results you want in a time frame that works for you.

What Can Lasers and Energy Devices Treat?

Virtually any skin condition you struggle with can be reduced or even eliminated with the right laser or energy treatment. Many times, a combination of these devices is used to achieve the best results. It is rare that we struggle from “just” one skin condition, and a multi-faceted approach is often what gives the best results. For example, those interested in turning back the clock typically have hyperpigmentation from years of UV exposure, fine lines and wrinkles, and skin laxity that requires tightening.

It’s still early in 2021, and even though we’re getting closer to a better normal, you still have time to plan your post-COVID debut. Although many laser and energy devices do improve skin right away, full results often require multiple sessions. Skin continues to improve after some of these treatments, which means your best results will reveal themselves a few weeks after your final session.

You have unprecedented time right now to treat yourself to healthier, more beautiful skin. We have devices, technology, and skills. Learn more about which laser or energy devices might be best for you by completing the online form or calling Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care at (408) 688-2082 to schedule your complimentary consultation.

The post Welcome 2021! appeared first on Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care.

One of the first questions clients often ask is which tattoo removal system is the best and there’s no singular answer. Removing tattoo ink requires consideration of numerous factors such as your skin, the age of the tattoo, how deep it is, and the colors. What we promise is to always have the latest, safest, and most proven technology for tattoo removal, like PicoWay.

How Laser Tattoo Removal Works

Destroying any pigment, whether it’s tattoo ink or naturally-occurring pigment in the skin, requires laser technology that uses either short pulses of light or a photoacoustic effect. These pulses are harmless to the superficial skin layers, but are absorbed by unwanted pigment. The pigment is then broken into fragments that the body absorbs and expels safely in the days following the session. Tattoo removal requires multiple sessions, with the tattoo getting lighter after each treatment. Your exact number of sessions will depend on the same factors used to determine the best tattoo removal technology for you.

PicoWay is unique because it uses a photoacoustic approach. In numerous studies, PicoWay has been shown to be very effective at removing multi-colored tattoos including the very stubborn green and blue inks. It’s often considered a gold standard for tattoo removal. However, other clients (and tattoos) may be better suited for other tattoo removal technologies such as the Alex TriVantage laser, which is also a great option for multi-colored tattoos.

Start Fresh with the Latest Tech

Clients love PicoWay because it’s gentler compared to laser tattoo removal tech of the past. A more comfortable session is also a bonus. We’re committed to making your treatment the best it can be, and you can always add on a topical numbing cream and/or Pro-Nox to your treatment. Pro-Nox is a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide that instantly puts you at ease. You’re in complete control, able to control the amount of Pro-Nox you receive. Plus, there are no lingering drowsiness effects so you’re perfectly safe to drive yourself home afterward.

It’s rare for anyone to have just one skin concern. If you’re interested in tattoo removal but also have other issues to address, such as acne scarring, PicoWay can also help with that. The PicoWay Resolve technology can help reduce wrinkles and acne scarring in only three sessions—while simultaneously reducing pigmented lesions. PicoWay requires no downtime and the majority of sessions are typically under 30 minutes. However, the size of the tattoo has the biggest say in session lengths.

Skin is intact after laser tattoo removal, making it easy to squeeze these sessions into your day. The PicoWay comes with six handpieces, all able to deliver different wavelengths, giving you a fully personalized experience. The uber-short pulses in picoseconds are 100 times briefer than older laser tattoo technology, ensuring each pulse is just a tiny trillionth of a second.

Get the Tattoo Removal Results You Want

Clients want to know how many sessions they will need for their tattoo removal, and you will receive a very accurate estimate during your consultation. Our laser expert will also closely watch how your skin responds during the first session so you can get an even more accurate estimate at this point. Most clients say tattoo removal feels a lot like getting a tattoo, which means you will certainly be able to complete these sessions. However, for those who prefer a more comfortable experience, just ask. There’s no reason tattoo removal has to hurt as much as getting a tattoo.

Ready to see what’s in store for you? Take a look at our before and after gallery. Tattoos are no longer forever when you have the right technology working for you. Schedule your consultation for laser tattoo removal with Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today by calling (408) 688-2082.

The post PicoWay and More Tattoo Removal Options appeared first on Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care.

Broadband light therapy, or BBL, is the second iteration of the intense pulsed light (IPL) technology. Suitable for all skin tones, BBL can help with a variety of common skin complaints such as redness, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, and acne scarring. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just lines and wrinkles that make you look tired or older than you are. The skin is the biggest organ you have and it shows signs of aging and sun damage in a myriad of ways. BBL is a comprehensive treatment that reverses the signs of aging on a holistic level.

Most Popular Holiday Skin Care Picks

Of course, Botox is still on top when it comes to the most-requested treatments. It’s been the most popular treatment for decades because it’s fast, easy, and it really works. You can use Botox to “freeze” the muscles that cause unwanted furrowing and wrinkles, providing a smooth and relaxed facial surface. Plus, Botox even helps train these muscles to get weaker (in a good way) so they won’t be capable of creating deep lines and wrinkles in the future—though of course clients do need to schedule routine maintenance sessions to sustain their results.

Botox can also be used for off-label purposes, such as reducing migraines and stopping excessive sweating. Many clients depend on Botox for a combination of results, like keeping their headaches in check while also smoothing the angry elevens between the brows or achieving a slight arch of the eyebrows. Let us help you discover the many ways Botox can benefit you.

Fillers and More

Dermal fillers offer immediate and natural-looking results. Many clients are surprised to find that maybe wrinkles weren’t their first sign of aging, but rather the loss of volume and “good fat” in the face and tops of the hands. We have all of the best, most effective filler brands so that you can get organic-looking and beautiful results. Whether it’s volumizing the lips, defining the jawline, filling in the undereye troughs or marionette lines, or even returning a youthful plumpness to the hands, we have the dermal filler for you.

Kybella

Another common sign of aging is the appearance of a double chin—even on otherwise slender clients. This submental fat is often genetic and makes it look like you’re heavier and older than you are. Avoid surgery with Kybella, a minimally invasive procedure. Kybella injects a synthetic deoxycholic acid into the under-chin area, which naturally dissolves the fat over time. Most clients need 3 – 6 total sessions, as it’s very important not to overuse Kybella. Once the fat is dissolved, it’s gone for good.

Tattoo Removal

Some people are lucky enough to still love their first tattoo years or even decades later. There are many reasons you may want to erase the past (especially when it’s glaringly obvious on your skin). We offer the unprecedented PicoWay tattoo removal treatment, the best technology to remove even old, deep, and multi-colored tattoos. Multiple sessions are required for optimal results. You can use tattoo removal to get back your clear skin, proudly wear any type of outfit you choose, or even make room for more (and much better) tattoos in the future.

Connect with us today to learn more about our holiday glowup options and schedule your consultation or appointment. Call Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care at (408) 688-2082 today and squeeze in some pampering appointments before the new year.

The post Schedule Your Holiday Glowup Today appeared first on Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care.