If you’ve researched laser tattoo removal, you may have come across PFD patches — a newer add-on some clinics use during treatment. These patches are designed to allow the laser to pass through the skin more efficiently, with claims of faster fading and reduced whitening or frosting during each session. At CLEO, we stay at the forefront of tattoo removal technology — but also hold every new advancement to a strict standard of proven safety and efficacy. Here’s why we’ve chosen not to use PFD patches as part of our PicoWay laser tattoo removal treatments.
What Are PFD Patches?
PFD (perfluorodecalin) patches are transparent, silicone-like sheets applied over the tattoo during laser treatment. They’re intended to:
- Reduce the skin’s reflection of laser light (the temporary whitening effect)
- Allow multiple laser passes in one session
- Potentially accelerate ink breakdown
While this concept sounds appealing, the clinical evidence is mixed — and not yet conclusive enough for our medical team to adopt the technology confidently.
Why CLEO Doesn’t Use PFD Patches
1. Inconclusive Clinical Data
Early studies on PFD patches show inconsistent results in terms of tattoo fading and overall treatment efficiency. Some report marginal improvements; others find no significant difference compared to standard, patch-free laser sessions.
At CLEO, every technology we use — from PicoWay tattoo removal to SkinPen microneedling — must demonstrate clear, repeatable results in large-scale clinical studies, not just preliminary reports.
2. Higher Risk of Irritation or Scarring
Because PFD patches trap heat and alter the way laser energy interacts with the skin, they may increase the risk of thermal injury, irritation, or scarring — especially on sensitive skin types.
We’ve found that consistent, conservative treatments spaced appropriately apart yield safer and more predictable outcomes without introducing additional risk factors.
3. Proven Results with PicoWay Alone
Our Candela PicoWay laser already delivers industry-leading results for tattoo removal, using ultra-short picosecond pulses to break down ink with minimal heat and downtime. The results are well-documented, FDA-cleared, and effective for all skin types and a wide range of tattoo colors — no patch required.
Start Your Tattoo Removal Journey with Confidence
At CLEO, we evaluate every emerging technology through a medical and scientific lens, not marketing claims. For tattoo removal, that means trusting the proven precision of PicoWay and prioritizing your skin’s long-term health over unverified add-ons.If you’re ready to safely and effectively remove unwanted ink, our experienced providers will personalize a treatment plan based on your tattoo’s color, depth, and skin type — no unnecessary risks, just proven results.
Book your consultation online or call (952) 666-1105 to schedule at our Minneapolis (Edina + Maple Grove) or Detroit (Downtown Birmingham) locations.
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