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When it comes to working with lasers for tattoo removal, laser technicians refer to something called the Fitzpatrick Scale to classify patients. The Fitzpatrick scale is the numerical classification for skin colour.
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 1: Caucasian. Patients with type 1 skin never tan and they always burn with sun exposure. It is the lightest and fairest skin type. Most patients with have red or blonde hair, fair skin and blue eyes.
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 2: Caucasian. Patients with type 2 skin are also white and fair, and they usually burn with sun exposure, but can tan with little sun exposure. Most patients are similar to type one but can have blue or green eyes and/or freckles.
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 3: Darker Caucasian, Asian. This is a common skin type. With beige to medium skin that does tan gradually but can burn, type 3 patients generally respond well to treatment. Because people with type 3 skin do tan relatively easily, they may be pushed into the type 4 category after sun exposure, so it is up to the technician to decide what level you are currently in. Some patient are advised to wait until after Summer to receive their treatments.
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 4: Mediterranean, Asian and Hispanic. Patients with type 4 skin have medium brown or tan skin even without sun exposure. In the sun, they almost never burn and usually tan. Determining type 3 vs. type 4 can be tricky, and generally what separates a natural type 4 from type 3 is ethnicity. Patients should expect to be asked about their family’s background and race in order to help determine which laser to use for their treatment.
Yes, it is possible to treat dark skin with the PicoWay laser system. The PicoWay laser is known for its versatility and safety across different skin types, including darker skin tones. This laser system uses picosecond pulses to deliver energy to the skin, which helps minimize the risk of overheating and damage to the surrounding tissue. Here are some key points about treating dark skin with PicoWay:
Versatility: PicoWay can be used to address various skin concerns such as pigmentation issues, acne scars, wrinkles, and tattoo removal. It is effective on all skin types, including Fitzpatrick skin types IV, V, and VI, which represent darker skin tones.
Reduced Risk of Hyperpigmentation: One of the primary concerns when treating darker skin is the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The PicoWay laser reduces this risk due to its ultra-short pulses, which limit heat diffusion and minimize damage to the surrounding tissue.
Precision: The PicoWay laser delivers precise energy to the target areas, which allows for effective treatment of pigmentation and other skin issues while preserving the integrity of the surrounding skin.
Minimal Downtime: Treatments with PicoWay generally involve minimal downtime, which is beneficial for individuals with darker skin who may be more prone to adverse reactions following skin procedures.
Safety: Clinical studies and practical use have shown that PicoWay is safe and effective for darker skin types, with a lower incidence of side effects compared to some other laser treatments.
It’s essential to consult with a laser technician who has experience with the PicoWay system and darker skin tones. We can customize the treatment parameters to ensure optimal results while minimizing the risk of complications.