Pre-laser tattoo removal methods include dermabrasion, salabrasion, cryosurgery and excision which is sometimes still used along with skin grafts for larger tattoos.

Laser tattoo removal usually refers to the non-invasive removal of tattoo pigments using Q-switched lasers. Typically, black and darker-colored inks can be removed more completely.

What is Q Switch?
The Q-Switch Laser Treatment uses a high-powered laser to treat skin pigmentation. With a high-powered beam of pulsed light, the energy introduces a “photo-mechanical” effect on skin pigments, tattoo ink and dark spots. This laser actually breaks up the skin’s tiny particles, leaving behind a smooth, natural surface on the skin.

How does Q Switch work?
It’s all about the laser. The Q-Switch Laser Treatment energy removes unwanted skin issues. Whether you are having troubles with spots of discoloration, sun freckles or even tattoos which no longer fit your lifestyle – the Q-Switch can take it all away. With this powerful laser energy, the skin pigmentation is naturally reabsorbed and disposed of by your body.

What does Q Switch treat?
Virtually any type of unwanted skin blemish can be treated and diminished by the Q-Switch Laser Treatment. Pigmented skin disorders like nevus of O can be eradicated by the Q-Switch. Also things such as Post Inflammatory Hyper-Pigmentation (PIH), Ephelides, Becker’s Nevus, Melasma, Nevus Spilus, Nevomelanocytic Nevii (NMN), cafe-au-lait macules and age spots are all some of the many things which can be treated by Q-Switch Laser Treatment.

What results should I expect?
The Q-Switch Laser Treatment is right for most skin types and is generally considered safe. However, if you experience erythema, swelling, tenderness, crusting, itching or are particularly susceptible to sunburn issues, then you may wish to approach with caution. Red or brown spots may appear on the treated area when sun freckles are gone and the remaining crust heals. These spots are typically temporary and will go away on their own. If they don’t, they can subsequently be treated.

How long does a treatment take?
Each Q-Switch Laser Treatment is going to be distinct so you should consult with the doctor performing your treatment. Depending on the size and the location of your skin issue, you can expect to spend anywhere between 10 and 30 minutes in treatment.

How soon are the results of a Q Switch noticeable?
The timing of the visible results from the Q-Switch Laser Treatment will depend on where the skin issue is on your body and how large it is. That said, many conditions will see results from treatments after one session. Some skin issues may need multiple sessions before you see the results you desire.

How many treatments do I need?
Depending upon the condition, location, depth and color of the skin issue, the number of treatments varies. For smaller pigmented lesions, many of these will be gone after one single treatment. For darker and more intense issues, more than a single treatment will generally be required.

Most pigmented lesions will see as much as an 80% reduction after three sessions. Individual assessment and consultation will be required for deeper skin issues.

Are there side effects from Q Switch?
With pigmented lesions, you may notice a temporary redness and an increase in the pigmentation. This will typically be resolved within a few months. Bleaching agents may be used to speed up the resolution of hyper-pigmentation.

Prolonged pigmentary changes such as skin lightening and darkening, while they happen, are uncommon. Scars and infections of the treated areas are also rare.