Pigment Lasers
Targeting pigmented lesions and tattoo ink with precision
Pigment lasers use targeted wavelengths to break down pigment under the skin, whether it is melanin in pigmented lesions or ink in tattoos. The energy is absorbed by the pigment without significantly affecting the surrounding tissue, and the fragmented pigment is then gradually cleared by the body over the following weeks. At Dermapure, your treatment plan is shaped by your condition and concerns, and built around our Triangle of Care, a clinical approach that combines three pillars (laser and light treatments, injectables and medical-grade skincare) to support more comprehensive, longer-lasting results. Every treatment is delivered by our trained specialists and personalized to your skin, your goals and your overall plan.
Our Pigment Laser Treatments
Our pigment laser treatments target pigmented lesions on the skin or unwanted tattoo pigment. Each option is selected during your consultation based on your skin type, the type and depth of the pigment and your desired outcome.
Pigment Lasers
PicoSure Laser
PicoSure is a picosecond laser that emits extremely short pulses of energy to fragment pigment under the skin. It is used to address pigmented lesions such as sun spots, age spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation, as well as unwanted tattoo pigment. The picosecond technology aims to break down pigment more finely while limiting heat to the surrounding tissue, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types.
Laser Tattoo Removal
Laser tattoo removal uses targeted wavelengths to fragment tattoo ink under the skin. The fragmented pigment is then gradually cleared by the body over the following weeks. Several sessions are usually needed, with the exact number depending on the size, age, colour and depth of the tattoo, and on your skin type.
ClearLift Plus
ClearLift Plus is a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser positioned as a gentle, no-downtime option. The 1064 nm wavelength reaches deeper layers of the skin to support fragmentation of pigment while stimulating collagen production. It is suitable for delicate areas such as around the eyes, and sessions remain comfortable without the need for numbing.
Understanding Pigment Laser Technologies
Pigment lasers work on a principle of selective photothermolysis: very short pulses of light are absorbed by pigment (melanin in skin lesions or ink in tattoos) and converted into mechanical energy that fragments the pigment. The fragmented particles are then gradually cleared by the body. Different technologies and wavelengths are used to target different types and depths of pigment.
Q-Switched Lasers
Q-switched lasers emit ultra-short pulses in the nanosecond range (one billionth of a second), creating a photoacoustic effect that fragments pigment under the skin while limiting heat to the surrounding tissue. Q-switched technology can operate at several wavelengths (such as 532 nm KTP, 755 nm Alexandrite or 1064 nm Nd:YAG), with each wavelength suited to specific pigment types and depths. Q-switched lasers are well established for tattoo removal and for treating pigmented lesions.
Picosecond Lasers
Picosecond lasers emit even shorter pulses, in the picosecond range (one trillionth of a second), about a thousand times shorter than Q-switched pulses. The faster pulses create a more pronounced photomechanical effect that fragments pigment into finer particles, with less residual heat. This can support a wider range of skin types, including darker tones, and is well suited to resistant pigment and tattoo treatment.
Alexandrite Laser
Alexandrite lasers emit a 755 nm light, named after the alexandrite crystal that generates this wavelength. The 755 nm wavelength is well absorbed by melanin, making it well suited to superficial pigmented lesions such as sun spots and brown spots. Alexandrite technology can be paired with Q-switched or other pulse modes depending on the treatment goal.
Follow-up and Maintenance
Pigment laser results develop progressively as the body clears the fragmented pigment. Most treatments involve a series of sessions, with intervals adapted to your skin type and to the type of pigment being addressed. After the initial protocol, follow-up sessions may be suggested over time to support the result, particularly when sun exposure or other factors can contribute to new pigmentation. The exact treatment plan is built with our team during your consultation.
Side Effects & Contraindications
As with any laser treatment, pigment lasers can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, while some less common reactions deserve attention.
- Common side effects: Temporary redness, mild swelling and a sensation of warmth at the treatment site are common in the first hours to days after treatment. Some darkening or frosting of the treated pigment may occur and resolves as the body clears the fragmented pigment.
- Less frequent side effects: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation may occur, particularly on darker skin types or with sun exposure. Blistering, crusting or temporary changes in skin texture can also occur, especially with tattoo treatment.
- Who should avoid pigment lasers: Pigment lasers are not recommended during pregnancy, on tanned or recently sun-exposed skin, on active skin infections at the treatment site, with certain photosensitive conditions or medications, or for patients with a personal history of keloid scarring without prior evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions are needed?
The number of sessions depends on the type of pigment, its depth and your skin type. Pigmented lesions such as sun spots may respond within a few sessions, while tattoo removal often requires more sessions spaced several weeks apart. Your specialist will discuss a realistic treatment plan during your consultation.
Can pigment lasers be combined with other aesthetic treatments?
Yes. Pigment lasers can be combined with other lasers, light treatments and medical-grade skincare as part of a personalized plan, with intervals between treatments adapted to skin recovery. Your treatment plan is built and adjusted with our team based on your goals.
Why Choose Dermapure
At Dermapure, every pigment laser treatment is delivered by our trained specialists. Our team maintains deep clinical expertise through ongoing training on laser technologies, treatment protocols and the evolution of best practices. As the largest network of medical aesthetic clinics in Canada, we share clinical knowledge and patient cases across our teams. Every treatment plan draws on the collective strength of a country-wide network of professionals.
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