Picosecond vs Nanosecond Laser: Which One for Tattoo Removal?
Picosecond or nanosecond laser: which technology gives the best results for tattoo removal? Individual results vary.
Laser tattoo removal has advanced significantly in recent years. But faced with two major technologies – the picosecond laser and the nanosecond (Q-Switched) laser – it is natural to wonder: what is the difference? And more importantly, which is more effective for removing a tattoo? Ray studios, a centre 100% dedicated to laser tattoo removal, explains.
Nanosecond laser: the former standard for tattoo removal
The Q-Switched (nanosecond) laser has long been the standard in tattoo removal. It emits ultra-short pulses of around a nanosecond (10⁻⁹ second) to break down tattoo pigments.
It is still used in some centres today, because:
- It is effective on black tattoos or less dense ink.
- It is less expensive than the picosecond laser.
- It can give good results… but at the cost of many sessions.
However, it shows its limits:
- On coloured inks, the Q-Switched laser is often less effective.
- It requires more sessions
- Side effects (redness, scabbing, hyperpigmentation) are generally more frequent.
Picosecond laser: cutting-edge technology
The picosecond laser is the most advanced generation for tattoo removal. It emits even faster pulses – of around a picosecond (10⁻¹² second) – which allows pigments to be broken down more finely and effectively.
Its advantages:
- Faster results: fewer sessions needed.
- Better performance on coloured tattoos and difficult inks.
- Less aggressive on the skin, so less risk of scarring or visible side effects.
This is the technology used in every Ray studios centre, to guarantee our customers the highest standard of care.
Which Laser Should You Choose? Our Recommendation
The choice depends on several factors: type of tattoo, colour, depth, location… but in most cases, the picosecond laser offers more safety, speed and visible results. At Ray studios, every tattoo removal is carried out with a picosecond laser, overseen by skin therapists trained in this advanced technology. Individual results vary.
Conclusion
The picosecond laser is now the premium standard for tattoo removal. Faster, more precise and less aggressive, it delivers superior results on all types of ink. Individual results vary. For effective, well-managed tattoo removal, choose a centre equipped with this technology.
Want to discuss this with a skin therapist? Book an initial consultation at one of our Ray studios centres.
FAQ
How does a picosecond laser work?
It is not the laser itself that removes the ink, but rather the body, more specifically the lymphatic system, a natural cleansing network that eliminates what the body no longer needs. These lymphatic vessels are very narrow. The ink particles that make up a tattoo are larger, which is why they remain in the body. To remove them, they must first be broken down—much like a pickaxe gradually breaking apart rock. This “pickaxe” is the laser. It fragments the ink particles into much smaller pieces, allowing the lymphatic system to eliminate them naturally.
Are picosecond lasers more effective than nanosecond lasers?
According to several scientific studies, picosecond lasers are factually more effective than nanosecond lasers. They are 30%* more effective in terms of tattoo removal results, regardless of colour, and reduce the risk of side effects by 20%**. In terms of patient experience, they are less painful: 4/10 pain reported by Ray studios patients versus 6.6/10 for treatments with nanosecond lasers***. To ensure an optimal result, Ray studios uses only picosecond lasers. Individual results vary.
* British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 176, Issue 2, 1 February 2017, Pages 457–464 **Prospective Comparison Study of 532/1064 nm Picosecond Laser vs 532/1064 nm Nanosecond Laser***Lapidoth & Akerman, 2007 - Pain inhibition in Q‐switched laser tattoo removal with pneumatic skin flattening (PSF)
Why do you use picosecond lasers?
We use this technology because it is currently the most advanced for tattoo removal. Picosecond lasers deliver ultra-short pulses that precisely and finely target pigments without damaging the surrounding skin. This high level of precision makes the treatment both more effective and more protective for the skin, when performed by experienced skin therapists.
