Page 125 - An Introduction to Laser Tattoo Removal

Chapter 2 – Fundamentals of Laser Tattoo Removal v1.0
In any laser treatment, it is invariably a better option to use larger spot diameters to induce deeper penetration of the energy. This is particularly true in the treatment of tattoos and hair.
Effect of Pulsewidth
In photothermal procedures, the pulsewidth can have a significant effect on the depth of penetration of the useful energy. This is principally due to conduction of the thermal energy.
However, in photomechanical (or photoacoustic) processes this is not the case. Since there is very little time for heat conduction to occur, there is very little effect in terms of penetration depth.
Summary:
‘Penetration Depth’ (for tattoo removal) depends on –
Wavelength Spot diameter
and ‘Clinically Useful Penetration Depth’ also requires –
Fluence
In fact, the short pulsewidths used in tattoo treatments, have much more of an effect on the total amount of light energy absorbed by the ink, and not the depth!
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Chapter 2 LEVEL A Laser Tattoo Removal
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