Things to consider when buying a laser tattoo removal machine

The tattoo industry is a continually growing one, and so is the demand for laser tattoo removal machines. Whether you are an established tattoo artist or a budding one planning to enter this industry, wouldn’t it be nice to know if you are making an informed choice and buying the best quality machine for tattoo removals?

It is worth considering a few factors before making a buying decision. Read ahead and be informed on the qualities of the best laser tattoo removal machine. This guide will help you avail the best advantage with your decision. 

The type of machine to choose varies greatly depending on its uniqueness and capabilities. Some systems are the best choice for removing a wider range of tattoos while some others can treat only specific kinds of inks.

How does laser tattoo removal work?

In simple words, tattoo removal lasers break up the ink particles that are embedded on various skin layers. The laser needs to reach the layer on which ink is deposited and attract the ink colors (done by wavelength). The high-intensity light shatters the tattoo ink, leaving the surrounding tissues uninjured. Over a while, this shattered ink is then harmlessly removed.

The amount of power available within every single pulse at specific wavelengths governs how efficiently a tattoo can be removed without harming the surrounding tissues.

In this article, we will examine the concepts buyers should consider for making an effective buying decision on laser tattoo removal machines.

1. Q-Switched Lasers

Q-switching is the technology used for laser tattoo removals. Q-Switched laser machines produce a certain kind of powerful pulse that shatter the tattoo ink with the help of light energy. It utilizes the theory that specific pigments absorb specific wavelengths emitted by the laser. Once the pigments absorb the high energy, it swells and explodes into partial fragments, and eventually, it gets removed from the body.

Since the laser selectively targets and destroys the pigments, the normal tissue remains undamaged and thus this treatment is safe and convenient, leaving no side effects. 

2. Wavelength

Wavelength is a light spectrum. Since different colors of the tattoo ink absorb different wavelengths of light energy, tattoo removal professionals often need to switch between different wavelengths of laser light while working. Having an understanding of the capabilities of different wavelengths will largely guide your choice of purchase.

The most widely used type of laser is the Q-Switched Nd: YAG laser(1064 nm, 532 nm). The availability of two wavelengths makes it a favorable one for treating a wider range of ink colors.  The 1064 nm wavelength is FDA-approved for removing black and shades of tribal blues. 532 nm wavelength is suited for the treatment of red, orange, yellow, purple, and other warm-toned colors. 

Q-Switched Alexandrite laser (755nm) is beneficial in removing light blue and green shades. Some rare tattoo colors like lime green and turquoise can be removed using Q-switched ruby lasers(694 nm).

3. Peak Power

In order to attain the best quality tattoo removal results, power matters. Higher peak power levels allow tattoo removal professionals to remove tattoos with greater efficiency, giving way to greater customer satisfaction.

 Lasers differ in the way they are made. Some are very basic models and attempt to heat the ink, but fail to destroy it. This results in scar formation in the same pattern as that of the tattoo. 

Underpowered lasers can’t break the ink quick enough or into small enough pieces, thus leading to shadowing and leftover colors. 

To avoid such issues, it is vital to consider peak power as you make your laser buying decision.

4. Spot sizes

A good tattoo removal machine will have a variety of spot sizes. Larger spot sizes like 10 mm can target even the deepest ink while smaller ones of 3mm target the ink closest to the skin surface. It has been seen that professionals often start with the larger spot size, targeting the deepest ink, and move slowly to the surface with smaller spot sizes. This is a proven and effective way to remove tattoos safely. 

5. Laser tattoo removal machine maintenance

Q-Switched tattoo removal lasers require regular servicing and maintenance support for their best performance. They have very delicate optical components that need periodic cleaning and maintenance. If this remains unattended, it leads to a reduction in power, and the efficiency of the machine declines over a period of time.

Hence, it is important to choose a laser machine supplier who will continually assist you, and provide timely service and maintenance support. Remember, your tattoo removal machine is the key equipment of your business. 

6. Laser tattoo removal machine training and support

Both the quality of the laser system and the business reputation of the manufacturer are equally important for a laser machine buyer. If you are new to the tattoo industry, you will need professional in-depth training and technical support. In order to provide good aftercare advice to clients, tattoo professionals need to gain enough knowledge. It is recommended to find a manufacturer or vendor who can provide quality practitioner education. 

Ease of use is another factor to be well-thought-out. You will get an idea regarding this if you attempt to read a few reviews written on the laser of your choice. 

Now that you are prepared to choose the best laser tattoo machine that is perfect for your needs, remember the key takeaways from this article. Analyze the technology used, the quality of laser, wavelengths, cost of the equipment, service, and maintenance cost involved before making a buying decision.