Nd:YAG Laser · Tattoo Removal, Pigmentation & Scar Revision · Prescott, AZ
Tattoo removal, pigment correction and scar revision — with one versatile laser
Our Nd:YAG laser delivers very short, high-energy pulses of light that break down ink and excess pigment into particles small enough for your body to clear naturally. With different settings, it can also help improve the look of certain scars.
Laser Tattoo Removal
Tattoos are meant to be permanent — so removing one takes patience. Laser treatment fades ink gradually over a series of sessions, giving your body time to clear the broken-down ink between visits.
What affects how many sessions you'll need:
- Ink colors — black and dark blue respond best; red and orange respond to 532 nm; green, light blue and yellow are the most stubborn
- Professional vs amateur tattoo (amateur ink is usually less dense and fades faster)
- Age of the tattoo and its location (areas with better circulation clear faster)
- Your skin tone, immune health and whether you smoke
Typical plan: sessions spaced 6–8 weeks apart. Many tattoos need 6–10 or more sessions; some fade enough for a cover-up in fewer. Complete removal can't be guaranteed — we'll give you an honest estimate after seeing your tattoo.
What it feels like: many patients compare it to hot bacon grease snaps. Numbing helps. The area turns white briefly ("frosting"), then may swell, blister or scab for a week or two.
Fading for a cover-up? We're happy to work with your tattoo artist's plan.
Pigmentation & Uneven Skin Tone
The Nd:YAG laser may help with certain types of excess pigment, such as sun spots, age spots, some birthmarks and medication-induced hyperpigmentation.
Melasma note: Nd:YAG lasers are among the leading and most-studied laser options for managing melasma. Because melasma is driven by hormones and heat and can flare with aggressive treatment, we take a careful approach — combined with skincare and daily sun protection — and focus on managing it over time rather than promising a cure.
The 1064 nm wavelength penetrates deeper and is generally considered one of the safer laser options for darker skin tones when settings are appropriate.
Scar Revision
Nd:YAG laser settings may help soften redness and improve the texture of some scars, including acne scars and older surgical scars. Scar treatment is gradual — often several sessions — and the goal is improvement, not erasure. The most effective approach is usually combination therapy, or "layering" different energies: some lasers target a scar's texture, others target pigment changes, and others stimulate new collagen production. Depending on your scar, we may combine the Nd:YAG laser with Morpheus8 or CO₂ laser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for darker skin?
The 1064 nm wavelength is often a good choice for darker skin tones, but settings and test spots matter. We'll assess you individually.
Will it leave a scar?
The risk is low with proper settings and aftercare, but temporary lightening or darkening of the skin can occur and occasionally lasts longer.
Can you remove all colors?
Black is the most responsive. Some colors may only partially fade. We'll be upfront about that before you start.
Let's Talk About Your Goals
Every plan starts with an honest consultation — what you'd like to change, what's realistic, and what's right for you.
371 Garden St, Suite A · Prescott, AZ 86305 · By Appointment Only
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary. A consultation is required before treatment.