Tattoo Removal

At Northside Dermatology, we offer the most advanced technology available for tattoo removal, using both the PicoSure® Pro picosecond laser. Q-switched nanosecond lasers and fractional CO2 laser. These medical-grade devices allow our dermatologists to customise treatment for different tattoo colours, ink densities, and skin types, ensuring safe and effective outcomes.

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Why choose Northside Dermatology for tattoo removal?

• Specialist expertise – All treatments are performed or supervised by specialist dermatologists with extensive experience in laser dermatology.
• Multi-modality approach – By combining PicoSure Pro, Q-switched laser technology, we can target a broader spectrum of tattoo inks than with a single device.
• Combination with fractional CO₂ laser for difficult cases – In selected patients, we combine pigment lasers with the fractional CO₂ laser. The pigment laser shatters the ink, while the fractional CO₂ laser creates microscopic channels in the skin to facilitate faster pigment clearance.
• Evidence-based protocols – Our treatments are guided by the latest dermatology and laser science, ensuring best-practice care in a safe, accredited environment.

How the lasers work

• PicoSure® Pro (755 nm picosecond laser): Delivers ultra-short pulses of energy that fragment tattoo ink into smaller particles. Its picosecond technology achieves faster clearance, especially for resistant inks such as blue, green, and black.
• Q-switched lasers (two wavelengths): Deliver nanosecond pulses that target darker, denser pigments and certain colours more effectively. With dual wavelengths, Q-switched lasers remain highly effective across a range of tattoo inks and complement PicoSure Pro for comprehensive treatment.
• Fractional CO₂ laser (in select cases): Used in combination with pigment lasers to create microscopic skin channels, accelerating elimination of fragmented pigment and improving outcomes in resistant tattoos.

What to expect

1. Consultation and Assessment

• Your dermatologist/specialist dermatology nurses/ dermal clinicians will assess your tattoo, skin type, and medical history.
• A test patch may be performed to assess how your tattoo ink responds to the laser and ensure safety.

2. Treatment Sessions

• Most tattoos require a series of treatments spaced 6–8 weeks apart.
• The exact number depends on the tattoo’s age, colours, size, and location.

3. Comfort and Pain Management

• Treatments can cause discomfort.
• We offer topical anaesthetic, skin cooling, and sometimes local anaesthetic injections for highly sensitive areas.

4. Aftercare

• Temporary redness, swelling, blistering, or whitening of the skin (“frosting”) are common.
• Sun protection and gentle skin care are essential for healing.

FAQs

How many sessions will I need?

Most tattoos need between 6–12 sessions. Resistant tattoos may require more, but our combination of PicoSure Pro, Q-switched dual wavelengths, and fractional CO₂ laser can reduce the total number compared to older methods.

Will my tattoo disappear completely?

Many tattoos fade significantly or clear almost entirely. Some inks may be resistant to complete removal. A consultation and test patch help set realistic expectations.

Is tattoo removal safe?

Yes. All treatments are performed under dermatologist supervision, with test patches where appropriate, to minimise risk and ensure safety.

Safety and Compliance

Northside Dermatology is a specialist medical clinic. All laser treatments are performed under strict safety protocols in line with Australian regulations.

Disclaimer: Individual results vary. A consultation is required to assess suitability and to develop a tailored treatment plan.