Category: Laser Treatments

Couch Convo Episode 2: What is the downtime with ResurFX?

Posted on by The Hair Doc
In our second episode of our “Couch Convo” series, our Physician Assistant, Ashley Syler talks about the downtime with ResurFX laser resurfacing. Ashley will be available this Saturday, October 3rd and will be offering $100 discount on ResurFX or IPL.
What is ResurFX used for?
  • Skin rejuvenation for fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improving tone and texture
  • Tighten loose skin.
  • Helps to stimulate collagen remodeling
  • Acne scars
  • Cellulite
  • Stretch marks
  • Blotchy or uneven skin tone
  • Brown spots and pigmentation paired with the IPL photofractional treatment.

To see the full demo in action visit this page.

If you have a burning question or subject you would like addressed in a future “Couch Convo” add it in the comment section

 

What to Do and What Not to Do After Your Laser Resurfacing Treatment?

Posted on by The Hair Doc

It is important to know what to expect whenever you are getting any type of skin treatment done. Skin that has been treated with laser resurfacing will be extra sensitive for a period of time. Most patients describe their skin feeling like they have a mild sunburn. Redness and swelling are normal but should be taken care of as to not cause any damage. Some patients also report experiencing some itching or stinging sensation for a couple of days following their procedure.

Laser resurfacing treatments are a great way to refresh your skin and address acne, wrinkles, large pores, and more. At Jupiter Dermatology our team works hard to help our patients get glowing skin. Patients should be aware of how to care for their skin when they get laser resurfacing treatment.

The Benefits of Laser Resurfacing

Now, more and more people are leaning towards the “less is more” makeup approach. This means that people are working harder at achieving a smooth, clear complexion. Topical, at-home skincare is a great way to take care of your skin and keep you looking beautiful, other methodologies are can enhance your complexion in ways your products can’t. Laser resurfacing is a comprehensive skincare approach that does wonders for your skin. It can:

  • Improve cellular turnover
  • Stimulate collagen production
  • Minimize pore size
  • Remove redness
  • Remove pigmentation
  • Even skin tone
  • Treat scarring
  • Treat acne
  • Provide smoother, glowing skin

It is no wonder that patients love this procedure as it can truly transform their skin.

Side Effects of Laser Resurfacing

The expected downtime from laser skin resurfacing treatment depends on the type and depth of the laser. Our team will go over the projected recovery time with you during a consultation. Redness, inflammation, and a tingling sensation are normal following this treatment. It may take up to four weeks for complete cell renewal, reduction of pigmentation, healing, and for the best results to show. Collagen renewal may take up to three months for noticeable results.

Steps to Follow After Your Laser Resurfacing Treatment

There are a few steps to follow to help keep your skin healthy and to get the best results, these are:

  • Clean the face one to two times a day with a skin solution as directed by your dermatologist.
  • Apply protective treatments that are recommended by your dermatologist to help your skin heal.
  • Use sunscreen to protect your skin
  • Use a moisturizer each day

Your dermatologist at Jupiter Dermatology will walk you through skincare steps to help your skin heal well and give you glowing results.

What to Avoid After Laser Resurfacing?

It is important to avoid products that have potentially irritating active ingredients in them. This means alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, and retinol. Also, for the first couple of days avoid intense exercise and sweating to not irritate your skin.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have any questions regarding skincare during your laser skin resurfacing recovery, contact Jupiter Dermatology. To learn more about this procedure and to create a skincare plan, schedule a consultation with one of our dermatologists. You can do this by calling us at (561) 748-0510 or filling out an online form.

Debunking Misconceptions on Tattoo Removal in 2019

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Did you know that tattoo removal is a booming three billion industry? It’s normal to rethink the purpose of a tattoo years later and look for removal options. It is, however, vital to acknowledge that people have different perceptions and fears of laser ink removal. Although the best way to learn more is through meeting with a laser tattoo removal specialist, here’s what to know about some common misconceptions about removing a tattoo.

The scope of tattoo removal

Although most people are results-centered, it’s critical to understand what tattoo removal can do. Because most people have only ever heard of laser tattoo removal, the topic is home to misconceptions and many scientific untruths– especially because lasers are involved! The technique of tattoo removal is simple— it involves treating ink under the skin with a laser that delivers very fast pulses of energy. These pulses break up ink particles into smaller pieces so that the body can absorb and dispose of them through the lymphatic system. Despite the simplicity of the idea behind it, it’s important to always seek out a professional laser specialist for laser tattoo removal.

The time factor in tattoo removal

Time is a precious commodity in this process, and it’s important to understand that laser tattoo removal isn’t a quick process. You’ll need to account for about six to eight weeks between treatment sessions to give the skin time to readjust and, more specifically, to avoid scarring and pigmentation complications. However, this timeframe of this process can be different for everyone and depends on factors like how close your tattoo is to the heart, whether it’s professional or amateur, and the color makeup.

Are there side effects?

Yes, but most side effects are minimal and disappear after 24 hours. However, swelling may take several days but depends on each person’s body. During this period, you should be sure to follow up with your laser technician if you notice anything unusual. This includes hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation— this is often a response by the body that creates darker or lighter skin than normal at the treatment area and can be permanent. It’s important to discuss these possibilities during your consultation.

Is it possible to have tattoo removal without leaving a scar?

One of the main concerns with tattoo removal is the fear of scars. However, under supervised conditions— and with using the best technology such as Q-switched laser platform– scarring is not usually a concern. Q-switched laser technology does not inherently damage the skin but rather targets the pigment underneath it. Still, it’s important to seek out an experienced laser technician who can recognize complications during treatment.

Why Jupiter Dermatology & Hair Restoration is a game-changer in tattoo removal

Jupiter Dermatology & Hair Restoration is home to some of the best laser tattoo removal professionals in the world of dermatology. During an appointment, Dr. Ricardo Mejia can assess your tattoo and goals and recommend the best laser tattoo removal treatment package for you at our Jupiter office. To get started, contact us by calling or filling out our online form.

Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Safe?

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Laser skin resurfacing is a very effective cosmetic procedure that can help get rid of age spots, acne scars, blemishes, and wrinkles. Although this procedure is notorious for its success, the amount of information available is immense and can be hard to wade through. Our goal is to inform you without having you feel overwhelmed. Here are some starting basics to know about laser skin resurfacing.

Types of Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing comes in quite a few forms with each one targeting a specific problem.

These types of lasers include:

  • Ablative lasers
  • Non-ablative lasers
  • Fractional lasers
  • CO2 lasers
  • Erbium lasers
  • Alexandrite lasers

What to Expect

Prior to treatment, Dr. Mejia needs to know your medical history including any medications you are currently taking. You will be prescribed antibiotics and also medication to prevent blister formation. You should stop taking certain medications and supplements two weeks prior to your procedure, those of which we will tell you in-office. Since smoking can slow the healing process, you will need to stop at least a week prior to undergoing treatment.

How is it performed?

After anesthetizing the skin, the laser is applied. Depending on the type of laser and depth of treatment, it may feel like a rubber band being snapped against your skin. Non-ablative lasers usually only require topical anesthetic for comfort. Since ablative lasers remove layers of skin, patients may need both local anesthesia and sedation during treatment, depending on the depth. Your comfort is of utmost importance, so the kind of anesthetics used will be discussed prior to treatment depending on your concerns and goals.

Suitable Candidates

The best candidate for laser skin resurfacing is in overall good health and has realistic expectations about the possible results. In addition, they may have the following skin concerns, which include:

  • Wrinkles
  • Fine lines
  • Acne scars
  • Premature jowl formation

Certain skin tones or those with acne flares may not be suitable candidates for ablative laser skin resurfacing. In addition, patients who are prone to cold sores or smoke should avoid ablative skin laser treatments. In any of these cases, we can discuss best treatment options for optimal results.

Recovery

After the laser skin resurfacing procedure, your skin usually takes three to 10 days to heal. The recovery period depends on the depth of your laser treatment, the number of areas treated, and how fast your body begins to heal itself.

On a side note, it’s normal if your skin becomes red and eventually peels after skin lasering. To minimize discomfort and promote healing, it’s recommended you keep the treatment areas moist with Aquaphor or Vaseline.

How Safe is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

When performed by a board-certified dermatologist, laser skin resurfacing is quite safe. However, it’s important to only have the procedure performed by someone who is skilled in both non-ablative and ablative laser treatments.

Follow-Up Care

Even after the initial recovery period, it’s important to protect your skin. Always apply sunscreen, even when it’s cloudy outside. UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds and harm your skin.

Schedule a Consultation

To get started on discussing your laser resurfacing options, contact our Jupiter office by calling or filling out our online form.

 

 

 

Can laser tattoo removal cause cancer?

Posted on by The Hair Doc

What to Know About Laser Tattoo Removal

Of those living in the U.S., nearly 30% of people have one or more tattoos. Statistics also show that about half of millennials have a tattoo. However, many people are not pleased with the decision they made. About 25% of those with tattoos wish they didn’t do it. But the good news is that a technique known as laser tattoo removal can remove tattoos with few side effects. But many people are wary of laser tattoo removal because they believe it can cause cancer. Here are some facts about the procedure and why there’s no need to worry.

Understand the Procedure

Laser tattoo removal works by breaking up pigment using very fast pulses of energy. Black pigments absorb all energy frequencies, which makes them the easiest to remove. Other colors require special laser frequencies depending on the pigment color. With the PiQo4 system, this can be customized to your unique pigments.

Before you undergo the procedure, our laser tattoo removal specialists will evaluate your tattoos and advise on the best action to take. We can then create the best treatment plan for you depending on the color(s), age, and size of your tattoo. The removal technique will also be affected by your skin color and how deep the tattoo pigments go.

What to Expect

Here are a few things to expect during laser tattoo removal:

  • The specialist will give you protective eye shields
  • The technician will check how your skin reacts to the laser. This will help them know the right frequencies for treatment.
  • The handpiece is used to administer intense light pulses through your skin. The light is only absorbed by the tattoo pigments.

Large tattoos require more pulses and treatment sessions to get rid of than smaller tattoos. Either way, you will have to go for several treatments for all your tattoos to be removed. Each session leaves your tattoos lighter. The process can be uncomfortable, but some patients do not require anesthesia. You may have to use topical anesthesia before you go for your first laser tattoo removal session. Immediately after the treatment session, take an ice pack and use it to sooth the treated area, spread an antibiotic cream on it, and bandage for protection. Whenever you want to go outside, make sure to cover it with SPF.

Negative Effects

Laser tattoo removal is safer than other methods such as salabrasion, dermabrasion, or excision because it selectively treats the tattoo pigments. The side effects associated with laser treatment are few, but it’s important to consider the factors below before you make a decision:

  • The area where the tattoo is being removed could get infected if not taken care of properly.
  • Your tattoo may not be completely removed or may need more treatments depending on the pigment. Often, some colors, such as black and blue, respond well to this treatment. Others, such as green, are more difficult to get rid of.
  • The result may leave you with slight hypopigmentation. This means that the treated skin becomes paler than the surrounding skin. You may also end up with hyperpigmentation that leaves the treated section darker than the surrounding skin.
  • Cosmetic tattoos such as eyeliner, eyebrows, and lip liner may darken after treatment, but additional sessions could help them fade.

Schedule a Consultation

Laser tattoo removal is one of the best and safest ways to break up pigment when performed by an experienced technician. To discuss your options and safety concerns with laser tattoo removal during a consultation, contact our Jupiter office by calling or filling out our online form.

ResurFX Skin Resurfacing Demo with the Lumenis M22

Posted on by The Hair Doc

In this video, our Physician Assistant talks about the benefits of the ResurFX Laser treatment we offer here at Jupiter Dermatology. It virtually has no downtime and you can go to work the next day and no one will ever know that you had anything done.

 

What is ResurFX used for?

  • Skin rejuvenation for fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improving tone and texture
  • Tighten loose skin.
  • Helps to stimulate collagen remodeling
  • Acne scars
  • Cellulite
  • Stretch marks
  • Blotchy or uneven skin tone
  • Brown spots and pigmentation paired with the IPL photofractional treatment.

How does it work?

Before the treatment, the skin was cleansed and sterilized and numbing cream was added for about 30 minutes. The ResurFX sends short laser pulses to the skin which may feel like a light vibration or slightly prickly sensation. A session can last up to 15-30 minutes depending on what area is focused on. We combine the treatment with our Zimmer cooling machine to increase comfort. All you will notice is that the skin can get somewhat pink and a little puffy. This only lasts 24 – 48 hours.  Make sure to limit your sun exposure prior to this treatment. So make sure to wear your sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin.

How long does the treatment last?

The laser treatment lasts up to six months and we recommend a series of three to six treatments spaced anywhere from four to six weeks apart.

Before and After Pictures ResurFX

Ready for younger radiant looking skin? Reserve your spot below or send us a message with any questions you have.

Schedule a skin resurfacing laser treatment

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Reverse the Effects of Aging with Laser Skin Resurfacing

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Laser Skin Resurfacing in Jupiter, FL

Your skin goes through a lot over the years. Sun and wind exposure, harsh skin care products, repeated facial expressions, and the effects of gravity catch up to us all eventually, resulting in some of the first signs of aging. This includes brown spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and a rough or dull texture. You can’t stop the aging process, but with noninvasive skin care treatments like laser skin resurfacing, you can restore your youthful glow!

How the aging process works

Before you can understand how laser resurfacing works, it helps to dive into what makes our skin age. The key to youthful looking skin is strong collagen. Collagen is produced in the deeper layers of the skin and provides the framework for strong healthy skin while helping to retain moisture. Unfortunately, our collagen production slows as we age, beginning to decrease as early as our 20s! You might not see it’s effects until later as your skin begins to weaken, becoming susceptible to fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, and an overall dull appearance. Repeated facial expressions like smiling, laughing, and frowning also contribute to weakened skin, worsening fine lines and wrinkles.

How laser resurfacing can help

If the key to strong healthy skin is collagen, then the best way to achieve younger-looking skin is to stimulate its production at the source! Using precise laser light wavelengths, laser skin resurfacing can target and heat deeper layers of skin to promote new collagen production. At the same time, the very outer layer of skin is treated, resulting in the removal of dead skin cells to reveal smoother skin beneath. The combination of new cell generation and collagen production can treat a variety of your skin concerns from surface level spots to deeper wrinkles.

When to expect results

After your laser resurfacing treatment, you can expect some mild side effects for the first few days. These include itching, swelling, and stinging similar to a sunburn. While there’s no required downtime after treatment, you’ll want to take care of your new skin while it heals to ensure the most successful results. Because your new skin will be extra sensitive, avoiding over exposure to the sun and wearing sunscreen when outdoors is very important. This skin sensitivity can last for several months.

After your skin has healed, you can enjoy the results of your laser skin resurfacing treatment. With dead skin cells removed your skin will look and feel smoother. Pigmentation that was broken up during the treatment process will begin to fade over time. As your body produces new collagen over the next few weeks, you can expect your fine lines and wrinkles to begin smoothing out for a more youthful appearance.

How to maintain youthful-looking skin

Laser skin resurfacing can reverse some of the effects that aging has had on your skin, but it can’t prevent future signs of aging from occurring. However, there are some simple things you can do to maintain the results of your treatment! The best thing you can do is limit your time in the sun. The sun and tanning beds can greatly speed up your collagen loss and the aging process. When outdoors, always have sunscreen on and avoid the sun midday when it is most intense.

Aside from avoiding the sun, you also need to establish a healthy skin care routine. At Jupiter Dermatology, we offer a variety of skin care products to protect and enhance your skin. Depending on your unique concerns, one of our experts can recommend which products you should be using to maintain the appearance of your skin after treatment.

Eventually, you may choose to have a second laser skin resurfacing procedure to restore your skin’s appearance again. Or you can opt for one of our other many skin rejuvenation options like microneedling, facials, or fillers to add instant volume.

How to get started

If you experience the first signs of aging in the face, neck, and chest with brown spots, sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles, or an uneven skin tone, you could benefit from laser skin resurfacing. However, only a professional skin care expert can determine the right treatment for you after examining your skin and discussing your concerns.

If you’re looking for an experienced skin care expert to perform your laser skin resurfacing treatment in the Jupiter, FL area, contact Jupiter Dermatology and Hair Restoration today! We can schedule your consultation to begin developing your treatment plan for healthier, younger-looking skin.

Common Questions About the IPL PhotoFacial, Answered

Posted on by The Hair Doc

When you look in the mirror, are you starting to notice that your skin doesn’t look as youthful as it used to? Throughout our lives, our skin is exposed to many different factors, including the sun and free radicals. The natural aging process and genetics can also take a toll on how our skin ages. At Jupiter Dermatology, we offer an effective, nonsurgical solution to common signs of aging with the IPL Photofacial treatment. Read on to learn more about this treatment and what it can do for you.

How Does the IPL Photofacial Work?

The IPL Photofacial targets deep layers of the skin to stimulate collagen growth. As the building block of healthy skin, collagen can strengthen and smooth the skin, as well as cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing redness. During treatment, the IPL machine will feel like a small rubber band snapping against your skin, which may cause minimal discomfort, but is very tolerable. One treatment takes only about 30 minutes to complete, which makes it a great “lunchtime” treatment. It is recommended that most patients undergo 3-5 treatment sessions over the course of several months to ensure optimal results.

Can You Benefit from an IPL Photofacial?

So, how do you know if this treatment option is right for you? The best way to determine your candidacy is through a consultation at our office. However, if you can agree to the following statements, you can probably benefit from an IPL Photofacial.

You Want to Prevent Signs of Aging

If you are looking to treat or prevent signs of aging such as age spots and sun spots, rosacea, facial slushing, large pores, dark under eye circles, of fine lines, you may be able to benefit from an IPL treatment. Because this treatment actually stimulates collagen production in the skin, results will be natural-looking and long-lasting.

You Want Fast, Natural-Looking Results

Results from an IPL Photofacial are noticeable about seven days post treatment and will continue to improve after each treatment session. Results are natural-looking, so you’ll look like you, only younger!

You Don’t Want A Lot of Recovery Time

IPL Photofacials require little to no downtime, making it a great option for those with busy schedules. Most patients only report mild redness after treatment, and makeup can help to camouflage any dark spots that may be noticeable until they begin to fade after 7-10 days.

You Are Not Pregnant

Patients who undergo an IPL Photofacial treatment should not be pregnant or breastfeeding, as it is not known how this treatment may affect the unborn child.

Who is Not a Good Candidate for an IPL Treatment?

Individuals with tanned skin or those with naturally dark skin may not be the best candidates for IPL Photofacials. This is because this treatment may result in hyperpigmentation or uneven pigmentation issues in these individuals. During your consultation, our team will thoroughly evaluate your skin color and health to determine your candidacy. Be sure that you are in overall good health and do not have any active infections or open wounds on or near the treatment site.

Is there Preparation for an IPL Photofacial?

Prior to the IPL treatment, patients should avoid excessive sun exposure, self-tanners, and tanning before for 2-4 weeks. You should be very diligent about applying sunscreen every morning to help protect your skin. Also, to avoid bruising, it is recommended that you do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, or Aleve for one week prior to treatment. Also, stop using any skincare products that contain Retin-A at least one week before. Our team will provide you with specific pre-treatment instructions to help ensure optimal results.

Is There Downtime Associated with the IPL Photofacial Treatment?

One of the greatest benefits of the IPL Photofacial treatment is that there is little to no downtime after treatment. Because it uses multiple wavelengths of light instead of laser energy, IPL does not negatively affect the outer layers of skin, making recovery much quicker than traditional laser treatments.

If you are interested in learning more about the IPL Photofacial treatment at Jupiter Dermatology & Hair Restoration, contact our Jupiter, FL office today to schedule your consultation appointment. Also, don’t miss out on our fall special; enjoy 25% off any IPL package! Our team, including Dr. Ricardo Mejia, board-certified dermatologist, will ensure that an individualized treatment plan will be created for you to ensure that your individual aesthetic goals are addressed and met. Our goal is to ensure that each patient received the professional and personalized treatment they deserve.

What You Should Know About the IPL Photofacial

Posted on by The Hair Doc

The IPL photofacial is a skin laser treatment that is used to penetrate into the skin and treat blemishes and pigmentation, among many other concerns. This treatment is gentler than other skin treatment options, but is still highly effective for skin conditions such as facial flushing, rosacea and reddening, age spots and sun spots, enlarged pores, fine lines, and dark circles under the eyes. Based on your skin condition, your dermatologist will determine if the IPL photofacial is the optimum solution for you and your skin. Here are some important things to know about it.

What is the IPL Photofacial?

The IPL photofacial, sometimes called IPL photorejuvenation, is a laser treatment that can effectively treatment pigment and unfavorable blemishes. It does this by delivering intense pulsed light deep beneath the skin where it can constrict blood vessels, destroy cells that produce melanin, and jumpstart your skin’s collagen production. It doesn’t require any downtime and you can immediately return to your regular schedule, making it preferable to other resurfacing laser or skin treatments.

Our IPL photofacial system uses the Lumenis M22 system, which allows us to perform many different laser treatments, including vein treatment and laser resurfacing, with only one system. This laser system comes with changeable handpiece filters and guides, allowing optimal treatment of your unique areas. This handpiece also contains sapphire lightguides to cool the skin as it comes into contact with the light energy, meaning the surface of the skin is not affected by heat. This makes our IPL photofacial treatments comfortable and worry-free– and with great results, of course.

Candidates For IPL Photofacial

Patients who wish to improve their skin drastically with a gentle treatment and no side effects should consider themselves as prime candidates for the IPL photofacial. However, patients who are very tan or have dark skin can experience complications and hyperpigmentation with this procedure and may be dissuaded. It’s important to cease using any Vitamin A products on the skin before this treatment, since this can cause complications (if you have any hesitations about certain products, be sure to ask). Certain active skin conditions can be cause for delaying this treatment, as well as any recent sunburn or sun damage. For the best determination of your candidacy, you can meet with our skincare specialists who can professionally recommend the best skincare treatment for you.

The IPL Photofacial Procedure

During this procedure, only the damaged skin is targeted and unwanted melanin is eliminated. This occurs through very quick pulses of intense light, which affects only the deeper layers of the skin. This is a fairly quick procedure and requires only around 30 minutes to complete, depending on your treatment area. Patients with lower tolerance may experience some discomfort during this procedure, but we can supply a topical anesthetic if needed. Most patients report feeling something similar to the snap of a rubber band against the skin. This can be accompanied by a warming sensation as the light energy is applied to the skin, but a cooling gel is also applied to prevent too much heat and allow the handpiece to pass easily over the skin. Protective eyewear is required for this procedure, and you will need to remove any contact lenses if you wear them.

Results and Recovery

You may experience some mild redness and swelling afterward, but these symptoms can be easily controlled with the help of an ice pack. You can return to your regular schedule immediately. Most patients undergo a package of 3-5 treatments for best results, spaced about 4 weeks apart in order to give your skin time to recover. It’s very important to care for your skin during the first few days after recovery, most importantly with the use of an SPF30+ when going outside, since your skin will be photosensitive during this time. It’s also important to keep the treatment area moisturized and avoid certain products like skin makeup or Vitamin A, as well as avoiding sweating, perspiring, or exposing the skin to hot water. As with any skincare treatment, do not pick or scratch the treatment area, as this can cause infection. After the initial recovery period, most patients see results with just one treatment.

If you’ve been struggling with pigmentation, wrinkles, scars, or acne, the IPL Photofacial may be your best option. To see what this and other skincare treatments can do for you, contact our office to schedule a consultation with our dermatologists who can recommend a treatment plan.

 

Say Goodbye to Unwanted Tattoos with Tattoo Removal

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Are you rethinking your ink? Perhaps you got your tattoo as a teenager, your tattoo no longer has meaning, or you just don’t like the design anymore.  No matter the reason, laser tattoo removal can help to eliminate your unwanted tattoo for good. This treatment is proven and safe for long-term results. Read on for some basic information regarding tattoo removal, as well as how it works, and what to expect during and following treatment. Being informed on what to expect with your tattoo removal treatment will make the process much smoother.

About Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal is a treatment done to eliminate tattoo ink in the skin. At Jupiter Dermatology & Hair Restoration, we use the PIQ04 laser to remove tattoos. This laser is the most powerful and versatile on the market with four wavelengths, allowing for treatment of every color ink. It also has the largest spot size, meaning that it can treat a tattoo much faster, as well as penetrate deeper into the skin to treat a tattoo at all levels.

With tattoos, black inks and some reds are the easiest to remove, while greens and light blues are the hardest. The PIQ04 laser can treat nine of the most common ink colors, allowing patients with even brightly-colored tattoos to see fading after a few treatments. Patients can also expect up to 40% fewer treatments than they would if they were using other lasers, which means they can see results much quicker.

How Does the PIQ04 Laser Work?

The PIQ04 laser uses ultra-short pulses of laser energy that shatters targeted ink into small particles that are naturally eliminated by the body. While other tattoo removal devices may require up to 30 treatments, the PIQ04 laser usually only require 8-12 treatments to see optimal results, saving you time and money.  In some cases black tattoos can be removed with as little as three treatments.

What is Treatment Like? Is there a painless option?

Yes! As a full service dermatology office, we have the ability to make it painless. During treatment, a topical numbing cream will be applied to the treatment area to ensure your comfort. Additional local anesthesia can be used to feel absolutely nothing. Additionally we have the Zimmer chiller which cools the skin to provide more comfort and patient safety. Then, the laser handpiece will be passed over the treatment area, removing pigment under the skin. The process usually takes about 20 minutes to complete but can vary based on the size of the tattoo, the amount of ink used, the depth of the ink in the skin, and the location. With the above techniques  patients should not feel  feel any  discomfort during the laser treatment. At Jupiter Dermatology, tattoo removal is very well tolerated and painless.

Any questions regarding what to expect during treatment can be discussed during your consultation.

What to Expect During Recovery

Following your laser tattoo removal treatment, there are a couple of steps to the healing process. First, your skin will turn to a frosty white color. This is caused when the laser penetrates the skin, releasing carbon dioxide, and is completely normal. With certain colors like red and blue  the treated skin may begin to peel, blister, or scab. About 1-2 weeks later, all blistering and scabs should fully subside. After 4-6 weeks, the treated skin is usually fully healed, and the patient is able to undergo an additional treatment session if needed.

Some tips to help speed up recovery include:

  • Applying a cold compress to the treatment area for the first 24 hours to reduce discomfort.
  • Avoiding physical activity and sweating for 24 hours.
  • Avoiding hot water, hot tubs, and high-pressure showers for 1 weeks after treatment.
  • Don’t pick or peel the scabs in the treatment area.
  • Avoid tanning (including spray tanning) for 4-6 weeks after treatment.
  • Stay hydrated!

By taking these steps you can help to quicken recovery. However, remember to follow your doctor’s specific post-treatment instructions to see optimal results.

Is Tattoo Removal Covered by Insurance?

Because tattoo removal is a personal option in most cases, most insurance carriers won’t cover the process unless it is necessary medically. However, our office does participate with many insurances you can contact to be sure.

What is the cost?

The cost depends on the complexity of the tattoo and colors. However our not  exceed prices will insure your budget is limited, and in some cases as little as $150 per month.

Contact Us Today

At Jupiter Dermatology & Hair Restoration, Dr. Mejia and our team strive to provide our patients with exceptional and personalized care. We will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to meet your unique aesthetic goals. Please feel free to ask any questions regarding your treatment or procedure, as we believe in transparency and want you to be as comfortable as possible.

If you are unhappy with an existing tattoo and live in or near the Jupiter, FL area, contact our office today at (561) 748-0510. We would be happy to schedule your initial consultation, as well as answer any questions that you may have. Our main goal is to provide professional service and beautiful, natural-looking results.