Picosecond vs Q‑Switched: Which Laser Removes Tattoos Faster?

Both Q‑switched and picosecond lasers break ink into particles your body can clear. The main difference is pulse duration—picosecond systems deliver energy in shorter bursts that can help with stubborn colours and finer ink particles.

Q‑switched basics

• Nanosecond pulses
• Proven on dark inks and older tattoos
• Often more affordable per session

Picosecond basics

• Picosecond pulses (much shorter)
• Can help on blues/greens and dense professional tattoos
• Sessions can cost more, but may reduce total visits for some tattoos

Which should I choose?

It depends on your tattoo’s colours, depth and age as well as your skin type. A good clinic will assess your goals and recommend a device—or a combination over time.