When you start looking into tattoo removal, you can't help but wonder, "Why does the number of sessions vary so much from person to person?" You might have heard that black ink fades easily, while colored ink takes much longer. Does the ink color really affect the number of sessions in Picoway tattoo removal?

The short answer is yes. The number of Picoway sessions varies depending on the ink's color, depth, and density. This is because different colors respond best to different laser wavelengths*. That is why, rather than giving a one-size-fits-all answer like "it will take X sessions," it is much more accurate to estimate the number of sessions after examining the color and condition of your specific tattoo.

Wavelength*: This refers to the light properties of the laser. Different pigments absorb different wavelengths, which directly affects how they respond to the removal process.

This content is a compilation of treatment information from Beauty stone Hapjeong.

By reading this article, you will learn:

• How Picoway breaks down tattoo pigments

• Why the number of sessions varies depending on the color

• The typical number of sessions required and the intervals between them

• Important things to know before getting started

How does Picoway break down pigment?

Picoway is a tattoo removal device that delivers ultra-short pulses of high-intensity laser energy in picoseconds*. By shattering the ink particles into tiny fragments, it allows your body's immune cells to naturally flush them out over time.

Picosecond*: This is one trillionth of a second. When the laser pulses are this short, we can target the pigment with precision without damaging the surrounding skin.

Instead of clearing all the ink in a single session, the pigment is reduced gradually over multiple sessions. Your skin needs time to heal between visits, making these intervals absolutely essential.

Why does the number of sessions depend on the color?

It is because different wavelengths target different colors. According to clinical data on laser tattoo removal, the light absorption varies by color—for instance, black and blue respond well to one wavelength, while red responds to another.

Clinical studies on picosecond lasers also highlight that different wavelengths must be used for blue/black pigments compared to red/yellow pigments. Tattoos with multiple colors require different approaches for each shade, which can increase the overall number of sessions needed.

The depth and amount of ink also play a major role. The deeper the ink is embedded in the dermis, or the more ink there is, the more times the laser must contact it to break down the pigment successfully.

Below is a table summarizing the approximate level of removal difficulty by color group.

Wavelength values are for reference only. Actual device settings and responses will vary based on the unique condition of the tattoo.

How many sessions are typically required, and at what intervals?

Tattoo removal is a multi-step process. While clinical literature suggests that 7 to 10 sessions are generally needed, it also notes that picosecond lasers can sometimes lead to fading in fewer sessions.

Because your skin needs time to recover between sessions, they are typically scheduled 6 to 8 weeks apart. Keeping these intervals too short can put unnecessary stress on your skin.

The budget of sessions you'll need varies greatly based on color, depth, ink volume, skin tone, and any previous removal attempts. Therefore, the most accurate way to plan is to examine your tattoo in person during a one-on-one consultation to map out your expected timeline.

Why choose Beauty stone Hapjeong?

At Beauty stone Hapjeong, rather than making hasty promises about how many sessions it will take, we recommend a thoughtful approach that analyzes the color, depth, and density of your ink first to map out a realistic timeline. Even with the same Picoway technology, the process varies significantly depending on the tattoo's characteristics. Located within easy walking distance of Hapjeong Station, you can easily drop by for a quick consultation to plan your treatment schedule.

Please note that this article is for general informational purposes. To ensure your safety, your personal treatment plan and intervals should be determined in consultation with our medical staff.

Important things to know before getting started

Tattoo removal is a journey that takes time, rather than a quick, one-time treatment. Failing to space out your sessions properly can hinder your skin’s natural healing process and lead to complications.

Additionally, certain colors or ink types may be resistant to treatment, or can experience color changes*. In particular, white and flesh-toned inks can sometimes undergo an oxidation reaction when exposed to the laser, which in rare cases can make them look darker.

Color Change*: White or flesh-toned inks can turn darker after laser exposure. We may recommend a patch test before starting your full treatment.

For a safe and successful journey, it is best to review the color and depth of your tattoo with our clinical team beforehand, noting estimated sessions, recommended intervals, and any potential color changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Does the tattoo color affect the number of sessions?

A. Yes, it can. Since different laser wavelengths target different colors, multi-colored tattoos may require more sessions. The depth of the tattoo and the amount of ink also play a role.

Q. How many sessions are usually needed?

A. Clinical research generally suggests 7 to 10 sessions. However, picosecond lasers can sometimes achieve fading in fewer sessions. The actual number of sessions is highly personalized, depending on the colors used, depth, and ink volume.

Q. How long should I wait between sessions?

A. A 6 to 8-week interval is standard, as your skin needs time to heal fully. This timeframe can be adjusted depending on your specific skin condition.

Q. Do all colors fade equally well?

A. Results vary based on the color and type of ink. Some pigments may be less responsive or experience color shifting, which is why we highly recommend having your tattoo assessed by a medical professional before starting.

Read More

• Picoway Tattoo Removal: How many sessions does it average to fade away?

• Is it harder to remove an old tattoo? How many sessions will it take?

• The Realities of Tattoo Removal: Insights from an SNU-trained Medical Doctor

• Thinking about tattoo removal in Hongdae or Hapjeong? Dr. Wi Young-jin answers your questions