- Today, the word “Pico” is heavily used in marketing, yet successful tattoo removal depends on much more than just the laser name.
Many people searching for tattoo removal ask the same question:
“Do you use a Pico laser?”
Both picosecond and Q-Switched nanosecond lasers can be effective for tattoo removal. Neither is automatically the best choice for every tattoo: treatment should be selected according to the pigment, skin and previous treatments.
The laser system, available wavelengths and practitioner’s experience all matter when planning treatment. They do not guarantee complete removal or eliminate the risks.
Q-Switched and Picosecond Lasers: Understanding the Difference
Not All Q-Switched or Pico Lasers Are the Same
One of the biggest misconceptions in the industry is that every “Q-Switched” or “Pico” laser delivers the same quality.
Compare the exact model and its documented specifications rather than judging quality by its price or appearance.
The device’s specifications, maintenance and calibration matter, whether it delivers nanosecond or picosecond pulses. Unsuitable settings or poorly maintained equipment may reduce effectiveness and increase treatment risks.
Possible problems include:
- Slower fading
- Uneven results
- Excessive skin heating
- Burns or scarring
- Residual pigment tones
This is why the laser manufacturer and technology quality are extremely important.
What to Check Beyond the Pico Label
The word “Pico” describes pulse duration; it does not by itself establish a device’s quality or suitability. Ask about the exact model, available wavelengths, applicable regulatory clearance, maintenance and the practitioner’s experience.
The word “Pico” itself does not automatically guarantee better tattoo removal.
A suitable, well-maintained Q-Switched system may be a good choice for a particular tattoo. The same assessment of device quality, wavelength and treatment settings applies to picosecond systems.
Picosecond pulses
Nanosecond pulses
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Individual selection: pigment, skin, wavelength and previous treatments.
Laser House TLV works with Quanta System lasers. Quanta System offers professional laser technologies for different needs. The specialist selects the appropriate technology and settings for each case, taking into account the pigment, skin condition and previous procedures. No single technology is suitable for everyone.
The appearance, price or country of manufacture of a device is not enough to establish its quality or authenticity. Verify the manufacturer, exact model and supporting documentation.
Clients should pay attention not only to the appearance of the device, but also to the manufacturer, clinical reputation, available wavelengths, medical certifications, and whether the clinic can clearly explain why that specific technology is appropriate for the case.
Why Wavelengths Matter More Than Marketing
Different tattoo colors require different laser wavelengths:
- 1064 nm: black and dark pigments
- 532 nm: red and warm tones
- Ruby 694 nm: green, blue, and resistant colored pigments
This is why professional multi-wavelength systems are often more important than simply choosing a clinic based on the word “Pico.”
When Ruby Laser Technology May Be Suitable
Ruby 694 nm can be useful for selected blue and green pigments, depending on the ink and skin type.
- Green tattoos
- Blue pigments
- Turquoise tones
- Selected residual pigments
Ruby remains one option for selected colored tattoos. Its suitability depends on the pigment and skin type, as well as the treatment settings; the Pico or Q-Switched label alone does not determine the best choice.
Ruby Laser 694 nm for Selected Tattoo Colors
Why We Work With Quanta System
At Laser House TLV, we use professional Q-Switched laser technology with multiple wavelengths, including Ruby 694 nm.
Quanta System is an Italian manufacturer of laser systems. We select the available wavelengths and treatment settings according to the tattoo and skin assessment.
What Laser Do We Use for PMU & Tattoo Removal?
Professional Tattoo Removal at Laser House TLV
At Laser House TLV, every treatment is customized individually based on:
- Tattoo color
- Ink density
- Skin condition
- Previous laser history
- Pigment depth
Laser Tattoo Removal in Tel Aviv Complete Guide
Laser Tattoo Removal: Why Choosing the Right Technology and Clinic Matters
We aim to fade the tattoo while monitoring the skin’s response. Complete removal and unchanged skin cannot be guaranteed. Possible risks include skin color changes, scarring and infection. FDA information on tattoo removal and its risks.
Successful tattoo removal is not simply about “Pico or not Pico.”
It is about:
- Professional laser technology
- Correct wavelengths
- Clinical experience
- Safe treatment protocols
- Proper treatment strategy

Comparing Pico and Q-Switched tattoo removal? Send us your questions and a photo of your tattoo. We’ll help you understand what the assessment involves.
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