Laser tattoo removal has come a long way. What started as a slow, painful process with limited results has now evolved into fast, precise, and highly effective treatments — especially with the arrival of the Candela PicoWay laser, a true game-changer in the field.
At CLEO Skin + Laser, we use the PicoWay to deliver safe, predictable, and virtually no-downtime tattoo removal to clients in Minneapolis (Edina & Maple Grove) and Detroit (Downtown Birmingham). Here’s a quick look at how laser tattoo removal technology has evolved and why PicoWay is in a class of its own.
The Early Days of Tattoo Removal
When laser tattoo removal first became available in the 1980s and 1990s, it relied on Q-switched lasers. These devices could break up ink particles, but:
- Treatments were painful, often requiring numbing or topical anesthetics
- Sessions were long and results could be uneven
- Multiple treatments were needed, especially for colored inks
While effective for some tattoos, many clients experienced incomplete fading, prolonged healing, or side effects like skin irritation.
The Rise of Modern Laser Technology
By the 2000s, advancements in Q-switched and nanosecond lasers allowed for better results, with less discomfort and shorter recovery times. However:
- Some colors, particularly greens, blues, and yellows, remained challenging to remove
- Heavily inked or layered tattoos still required many sessions
It was clear that a more precise, faster-pulsing laser was needed to improve results and comfort.
Enter the Candela PicoWay
The PicoWay laser represents a revolution in tattoo removal. Using picosecond technology (one trillionth of a second), PicoWay delivers energy so fast that it shatters ink into smaller particles, making it easier for the body to clear them naturally.
Why PicoWay is a game-changer:
- Removes even difficult colors like blues, greens, and reds
- Reduces the number of sessions needed compared to older lasers
- Minimizes skin irritation and downtime
- Works on all skin types, making it safer for a wider range of clients
In other words, PicoWay doesn’t just remove tattoos — it does so faster, safer, and more effectively than previous generations of lasers.
Why CLEO Clients Love PicoWay
At CLEO Skin + Laser, we pair the Candela PicoWay with personalized treatment plans based on tattoo size, color, location, and your skin type. Our clients in Minneapolis and Detroit consistently see:
- Faster fading with fewer sessions
- Minimal downtime
- Smooth, healthy skin after treatment
Whether you’re removing a small regret or a large, colorful tattoo, PicoWay allows us to deliver results you can trust — without unnecessary pain or prolonged recovery.
Bottom Line
Laser tattoo removal has come a long way, from the slow, painful treatments of the past to the cutting-edge precision of the Candela PicoWay. At CLEO, we combine advanced technology with expert care to help you safely and effectively erase unwanted tattoos.
Book your consultation today in Minneapolis or Detroit and discover why CLEO is a trusted leader in modern tattoo removal.




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