Removing a tattoo is not one-size-fits-all. Each ink colour absorbs light differently, so our dual-wavelength laser uses two settings: 1064 nm for black, dark blue and other dark inks, and 532 nm for red, orange and some yellow inks. If you are removing red ink in Scottsdale, it helps to know why the treated area can look quite different from a black tattoo.
How the 532 nm wavelength works
The laser delivers ultra-short pulses of light. Ink particles absorb that energy and shatter into tiny fragments, which your immune system then carries away over the following weeks. Red ink absorbs green light strongly, which is why it responds to the 532 nm wavelength rather than 1064 nm.
Why red ink looks more "bruised"
After a black-ink session, skin usually shows a white "frosting", redness and mild swelling. With red ink, many clients notice the area looks darker, purple or bruised for one to two weeks. That is expected, and there are two main reasons:
- Blood absorbs 532 nm too. The same green light that targets red ink is also absorbed by the haemoglobin in tiny blood vessels near the surface. That causes pinpoint bleeding under the skin, called purpura, which looks like a bruise.
- The skin is more reactive at the surface. 532 nm works more superficially than 1064 nm, so the reaction is more visible. Blistering or crusting can also be more noticeable in the first days.
A bruised look after red ink treatment is normal. It fades as the skin heals, usually within one to two weeks.
Red vs non-red inks at a glance
| Red, orange & some yellow inks | Black & dark blue inks | |
|---|---|---|
| Wavelength | 532 nm | 1064 nm |
| Right after treatment | Darker, purple, bruise-like look | White frosting, redness, swelling |
| Typical healing | 1 to 2 weeks, sometimes with blisters | About 1 week |
| Fading | Can take more sessions, depending on the pigment | Often responds steadily |
What to expect with red ink
- A test spot first. Some red, pink and skin-tone inks contain pigments that can darken when treated. We may treat a small area first and check it before treating the whole tattoo.
- More time between sessions. Sessions are usually spaced six to eight weeks apart so the skin can heal fully.
- Gentle aftercare. Keep the area clean and covered as directed, do not pick at blisters or scabs, and protect it from the Arizona sun with SPF.
Pricing
Laser Tattoo Removal for blue, black and colored ink starts at $450 per session, with 6-session and unlimited packages available. Laser eyebrow tattoo removal is $250 and laser eyeliner tattoo removal is $800.
Book your tattoo removal consultation and we will map out the right settings for every colour in your tattoo.
