How Laser Tattoo Removal Works on Black and Coloured Inks
Laser tattoo removal is the most effective way to remove unwanted tattoos by breaking down ink particles so the body can naturally eliminate them. The process, however, differs for black and coloured ink. Black ink absorbs all laser wavelengths, making it easier to remove, while coloured tattoos require specific wavelengths and can be more challenging to treat. Understanding how laser tattoo removal works on different ink colours can help set realistic expectations for treatment.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
Laser tattoo removal uses high-intensity light pulses that penetrate the skin and target tattoo ink. The laser energy is absorbed by the ink, causing it to shatter into tiny fragments. Over time, the body’s immune system flushes out these ink particles through the lymphatic system.
The success of tattoo removal depends on several factors, including the ink colour, density, depth, and the type of laser used. Some colours respond more quickly to laser treatment, while others take longer to break down.
Why Black Ink is Easier to Remove
Black ink is the easiest to remove because it absorbs all laser wavelengths. This allows for effective treatment with different laser systems. The most commonly used wavelength for black ink removal is 1064nm, delivered by an Nd:YAG laser. This wavelength penetrates deep into the skin, effectively breaking down black pigment while minimising damage to surrounding tissue.
Since black ink absorbs laser energy efficiently, it requires fewer sessions than coloured ink tattoos. Shaded black tattoos or older tattoos, where the ink has already started to fade, tend to clear faster than fresh, heavily saturated tattoos.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works on Coloured Inks
Coloured tattoos are more challenging to remove because different pigments absorb laser energy at different rates. The removal process requires specific wavelengths to target different colours effectively. Some colours, such as red and orange, respond well to laser treatment, while others, like blue and green, require more specialised wavelengths.
Best Laser Wavelengths for Different Ink Colours
1064nm Nd:YAG laser targets black, dark blue, and dark green and is safe for darker skin tones.
532nm Nd:YAG laser works well for red, orange, and yellow inks.
755nm Alexandrite laser is effective for blue, green, and some purples.
694nm Ruby laser is best for stubborn blue and green inks.
Since coloured ink requires different wavelengths, removing a multicoloured tattoo often involves using multiple lasers throughout the treatment process. Some colours, like pastels and white ink, can be the most difficult to remove because they reflect laser light rather than absorb it.
Why Some Ink Colours Are Harder to Remove
Some ink colours are more resistant to laser treatment due to the way they interact with laser energy.
Blue and green ink is among the hardest to remove because these colours do not absorb common laser wavelengths as well as black or red. These colours require specific wavelengths, such as 755nm from an Alexandrite laser or 694nm from a Ruby laser.
Yellow and orange ink can be challenging because they absorb less laser energy, making them slower to break down. The 532nm Nd:YAG laser is the most effective option for these colours, but multiple sessions are often needed.
White and pastel inks are particularly difficult to remove because they contain titanium dioxide, which can reflect laser energy instead of absorbing it. In some cases, white ink may temporarily darken before fading.
The Best Approach for Removing Black and Coloured Tattoos
Black ink tattoos are the easiest to remove due to their ability to absorb all laser wavelengths, while coloured tattoos require specific wavelengths for effective treatment. Red, orange, and yellow tend to fade more quickly, while blue, green, and pastel shades require advanced technology for successful removal.
For the best results, choosing a clinic that offers multiple laser wavelengths is essential. Advanced picosecond lasers provide the highest success rates, ensuring faster tattoo removal with fewer sessions and minimal skin damage.
