Every Pigment Tells a Different Story. Is Your Salon Equipped to Addre

By Sophie Bennett

From black tattoos and faded microblading to multicolored permanent makeup, explore how Q-Switched and picosecond laser technologies address different pigment concerns—and discover how Esthe Depot helps beauty businesses choose the right equipment for their service goals.

• Reading Time: 10–12 minutes
• Topics: Tattoo Removal | Eyebrow Tattoo Removal | Permanent Makeup Removal | Q-Switched Nd | Picosecond Laser | Professional Tattoo Removal Equipment

A New Chapter for Your Skin: Why Professional Pigment Removal Matters

Tattoos and permanent makeup have always been more than colors on the skin. They represent personal choices, creative expression, and moments that once meant something to us.

But preferences evolve. A tattoo may no longer reflect someone's current style. An eyebrow tattoo may have faded into an unwanted shade, or an old microblading design may no longer suit the client's preferred appearance.

Today's laser technology offers new possibilities for people who want to revisit those choices.

For beauty businesses, this creates an opportunity to develop specialized services around tattoo fading, eyebrow tattoo removal, and permanent makeup correction.

However, not every pigment responds to the same laser wavelength. Black tattoo ink, colorful body tattoos, and cosmetic pigments each present different technical considerations. Choosing equipment based on its advertised number of functions alone can leave important gaps in your service planning.

At Esthe Depot, we approach professional equipment selection from a different perspective: start with the treatments you want to offer, understand the technology behind them, and then choose a configuration that supports your business goals.

Our laser collection brings together Q-Switched Nd and picosecond systems with different wavelength combinations, pulse configurations, and application options.

Instead of navigating multiple suppliers and comparing technical specifications without context, you can explore a curated selection of professional equipment in one place.

And our support extends beyond the purchase, with one-to-one training, warranty coverage, equipment guidance, and European after-sales assistance.

Let's look at the pigment concerns your clients may bring to your salon and the equipment options worth considering.

1. Black Tattoos: Building Your Core Tattoo Removal Service

Black tattoos are a common starting point for professional tattoo removal services.

From lettering and geometric designs to larger body tattoos, black ink can remain visible for years because tattoo pigment is deposited within the dermis.

For these applications, 1064 nm Nd laser technology is an established option.

Why Is 1064 nm Important for Black Tattoo Ink?

Black and dark tattoo pigments absorb light across a broad wavelength range.

The 1064 nm wavelength is widely used for black and dark blue-black tattoo ink. Its relatively long wavelength also allows deeper penetration compared with shorter visible wavelengths.

During treatment, short laser pulses deliver energy to the targeted pigment particles, creating rapid photothermal and photomechanical effects that help fragment the ink.

The resulting particles are gradually processed and cleared by the body's natural mechanisms.

Tattoo removal generally requires multiple sessions. Results depend on factors such as ink composition, pigment density, tattoo depth, skin characteristics, and treatment response.

Meet Qanovis: A Dedicated Multi-Wavelength Tattoo Removal System

Qanovis is designed for businesses looking to establish a dedicated tattoo and pigment-removal service.

Its Q-Switched Nd platform combines a 6 ns pulse width with multiple wavelength options, giving trained operators more flexibility when working with different tattoo pigments.

What makes Qanovis worth considering?

• 1064 nm: Designed for black and darker tattoo pigments.

• 532 nm: For selected red and warmer-colored pigments.

• 755 nm: An additional option for certain blue and green pigments, depending on ink composition and configuration.

• 1320 nm option: Additional application flexibility when the corresponding tip is included.

• 1–10 Hz adjustable frequency: Allows operators to adjust pulse repetition according to the selected protocol.

• Air, water, and semiconductor cooling: Supports equipment temperature management during operation.

The business advantage: Qanovis provides a dedicated platform for salons prioritizing tattoo removal, with multiple wavelength options that can support a broader range of pigment-related service requirements.

Explore Qanovis Q-Switched Nd Laser

2. Multicolored Tattoos: Why One Wavelength Isn't Always Enough

A black tattoo and a multicolored tattoo present different challenges.

Consider a design containing black outlines, red flowers, blue details, and green shading. Each pigment may respond differently to laser energy because different ink compounds have different absorption characteristics.

This is where wavelength selection becomes particularly important.

Understanding the Main Tattoo Removal Wavelengths

• 1064 nm – Black and Dark Pigments

Commonly used for black and dark blue-black tattoo ink. Its longer wavelength allows relatively deep penetration.

• 532 nm – Selected Red and Warm-Colored Pigments

Generated through frequency doubling of a 1064 nm Nd laser, this wavelength is commonly used for selected red, orange, and other warmer-colored tattoo pigments.

• 755 nm – Additional Options for Blue and Green Pigments

An option for certain blue and green tattoo inks, depending on their specific formulation.

No single wavelength addresses every tattoo color equally. Yellow, white, flesh-colored, and mixed cosmetic pigments can be particularly challenging.

For salons planning to offer more comprehensive tattoo removal services, a broader wavelength configuration can provide additional treatment options.

Meet Chromarya: Four Wavelength Options in One Q-Switched Platform

Chromarya takes a broader approach to Q-Switched pigment treatment.

Its configuration combines:

532 nm / 755 nm / 1064 nm / 1320 nm

With a 3–5 ns pulse width, adjustable spot sizes, and variable energy output, Chromarya provides a flexible equipment configuration for businesses planning to address different pigment concerns.

Key specifications:

• 3–5 ns pulse width

• 50–600 mJ pulse energy

• Up to 10 Hz frequency

• 2–6 mm adjustable spot sizes

• 12.1-inch touchscreen

• Closed-loop water cooling

The additional 1320 nm option also supports compatible carbon-peel applications, allowing the system to be considered for a broader service plan when the appropriate configuration and protocol are available.

The business advantage: Compared with a basic two-wavelength configuration, Chromarya offers a wider range of wavelength options. This makes it worth exploring for salons whose planned services involve several tattoo colors and additional laser-based facial applications.

Explore Chromarya Q-Switched Laser System

3. Eyebrow Tattoos & Microblading: A Different Challenge in Pigment Removal

Permanent makeup is one of the more specialized areas of pigment removal.

A client may have originally chosen dark brown eyebrows, only to find that the color has gradually shifted toward grey, red, or orange.

Another may want to remove old microblading before choosing a new eyebrow shape.

Unlike many conventional body tattoos, cosmetic pigments often contain mixtures of different colorants. Their composition can vary between manufacturers, which makes PMU removal less predictable.

Two phenomena are particularly important for operators to understand.

Pigment Unmasking: When Hidden Colors Become Visible

A brown eyebrow tattoo may contain several different pigments blended together.

Following laser treatment, some components may respond faster than others. As darker pigments gradually fade, previously less visible red, orange, or yellow tones can become more noticeable.

This is known as pigment unmasking.

Paradoxical Darkening: Why Some Cosmetic Pigments Need Extra Attention

Certain cosmetic pigments containing iron oxide or titanium dioxide may darken following laser exposure because of chemical changes within the pigment.

This is especially important when assessing older eyebrow tattoos, eyeliner, and other permanent makeup.

A proper pigment history, assessment, and cautious treatment planning are therefore essential before choosing a laser protocol.

Why Consider Picosecond Technology for PMU Services?

Picosecond lasers deliver energy in pulses measured in trillionths of a second.

Their shorter pulse duration creates strong photomechanical interactions with pigment particles, helping disrupt targeted ink while reducing the time available for heat to diffuse into surrounding tissue.

Wavelength selection still matters:

• 1064 nm: Commonly used for darker eyebrow pigments.

• 532 nm: An option for selected red, orange, and warmer residual pigments.

• 755 nm: An additional option for certain cosmetic pigments, depending on their composition.

Picosecond technology is not a universal solution for every PMU color. Pigment composition, skin characteristics, and operator assessment remain essential.

Meet Eryvena: A Dedicated Picosecond Platform for Pigment Services

Eryvena brings picosecond technology into a dedicated pigment-focused system.

Its 2000 ps pulse delivery works with two core wavelengths:

• 532 nm: Selected superficial and warmer-colored pigments.

• 1064 nm: Darker tattoo ink and deeper pigment targets.

Additional equipment features include:

• Up to 2.0 J energy output

• 1–10 Hz adjustable frequency

• Adjustable fluence and spot size

• Seven-joint articulated light-guide arm

• 10.1-inch touchscreen

• Air and water cooling

• Optional 1320 nm head for compatible carbon-peel applications.

The seven-joint articulated arm offers practical positioning flexibility when operators move around different treatment areas. Adjustable fluence and spot size also provide control over the equipment configuration used for different pigment-focused protocols.

The business advantage: Eryvena is worth considering for salons that want to build a dedicated picosecond pigment-removal service rather than relying exclusively on a conventional Q-Switched platform.

Explore Eryvena Picosecond Laser

Professional note: Eyeliner and periocular procedures require specialized training, appropriate eye protection, and compliance with applicable local regulations. Equipment availability does not automatically establish authorization to perform these procedures.

4. Beyond Tattoo Removal: Add Carbon Peel to Your Service Planning

Pigment removal is not the only reason salons explore Q-Switched laser technology.

Some clients are also interested in treatments targeting the appearance of dull skin, visible pores, and excess surface oil.

Carbon peel is a separate laser-based facial procedure that uses a topical carbon preparation with a compatible laser protocol.

For businesses planning to offer both tattoo-related services and carbon-peel facials, a system with an appropriate additional wavelength may offer greater equipment versatility.

Meet Inklyse: A Three-Wavelength System for Pigment and Carbon Peel Applications

Inklyse combines three wavelength options in one Q-Switched Nd platform:

1064 nm / 532 nm / 1320 nm

Its 10 ns pulse delivery supports pigment-focused applications, while the 1320 nm option can be used with a compatible carbon-peel protocol.

What Inklyse brings to your equipment setup:

• 1064 nm: Black and darker tattoo pigments.

• 532 nm: Selected red, brown, and superficial cosmetic pigments.

• 1320 nm: Carbon-peel applications with the appropriate carbon preparation.

• 20–2000 mJ adjustable energy: Allows trained operators to select output according to the treatment protocol.

• 1–10 Hz frequency: Adjustable pulse repetition.

• 1–8 mm spot diameter: Flexibility across different treatment areas.

• Water and air cooling: Supports equipment operation.

The business advantage: Inklyse offers a practical option for businesses that want to combine pigment-related services with compatible carbon-peel applications on one platform.

Rather than purchasing a dedicated system for every service category, salons can explore a configuration that supports more than one treatment offering.

Explore Inklyse Three-Wavelength Q-Switched Laser

5. Want to Offer Hair Reduction Alongside Pigment Treatments?

Not every salon plans to specialize exclusively in tattoo removal.

Some businesses already offer hair reduction and want to expand into pigment-related services. Others are planning a new treatment room and prefer to evaluate equipment that covers more than one service category.

In these situations, purchasing separate platforms for every treatment may increase the initial equipment investment and require additional workstation space.

A combined system can be worth considering.

Meet Calevio: Diode Hair Reduction and Picosecond Pigment Technology in One Platform

Calevio combines two different laser technologies:

• 808 nm diode laser: For professional hair-reduction applications.

• Picosecond laser: For tattoo fading and selected pigment-focused applications.

Its picosecond handpiece offers the following wavelength options:

• 532 nm: Selected superficial and warmer-colored pigments.

• 1064 nm: Darker tattoo pigments and deeper pigment targets.

• 755 nm: Optional wavelength for additional pigment applications.

• 1320 nm: Additional skin-focused applications, subject to the supplied configuration and compatible protocol.

The two technologies use dedicated handpieces, allowing operators to switch between different service categories using the same console.

The business advantage: Calevio is an option for salons looking to combine hair-reduction equipment and picosecond pigment technology without planning two entirely separate console investments.

For businesses building a broader aesthetic service menu, this combination offers another way to organize equipment purchases around long-term service development.

Explore Calevio Diode & Picosecond Laser

6. Q-Switched vs. Picosecond: Which Laser Technology Should You Consider?

When comparing tattoo removal equipment, two specifications deserve particular attention: wavelength and pulse duration.

Wavelength determines which pigments can absorb the laser energy, while pulse duration describes how quickly that energy is delivered.

Both influence how a laser interacts with tattoo pigment.

Q-Switched: Established Nanosecond Technology

Q-Switched lasers release stored energy in extremely short, high-intensity pulses, typically measured in nanoseconds.

For tattoo removal, these pulses create rapid photothermal and photomechanical effects that help fragment pigment particles.

Q-Switched Nd technology remains an established option for professional tattoo removal, particularly when the system provides suitable wavelengths for the pigments being addressed.

Esthe Depot systems using Q-Switched technology:

• Qanovis: 6 ns

• Chromarya: 3–5 ns

• Inklyse: 10 ns

These configurations offer different wavelength combinations and equipment specifications, so the choice should be based on your planned services rather than pulse duration alone.

Picosecond: Shorter Pulse Delivery for Pigment Fragmentation

Picosecond lasers deliver energy in trillionths of a second.

Their shorter pulse duration emphasizes photomechanical interactions, helping disrupt targeted pigment particles.

Research has shown that picosecond systems can offer advantages for certain tattoo colors, including some blue and green pigments. However, results depend on the laser wavelength, ink formulation, and individual treatment conditions.

Esthe Depot systems using picosecond technology:

• Eryvena: Dedicated picosecond pigment platform.

• Calevio: Combined diode and picosecond platform.

The important distinction is not simply that picosecond is newer than nanosecond technology.

7. Which Tattoo Removal Laser Fits Your Salon?

After understanding the different pigment concerns and laser technologies, the next step is to connect those requirements with your equipment investment.

Rather than choosing a machine based on the number of wavelengths alone, consider the services you want to develop and the configuration needed to support them.

Before You Invest, Consider These Four Questions

1. Which services will generate the most demand in your salon?

If tattoo removal is your main focus, prioritize pigment-related wavelength configurations. If you also plan to offer hair reduction or carbon peel, evaluate the corresponding additional equipment options.

2. Do you need more wavelength options or a dedicated technology?

A broader wavelength configuration may be useful for businesses expecting different tattoo colors. A dedicated picosecond platform may be more appropriate for businesses specifically interested in picosecond pigment services.

3. Does the equipment configuration match your intended applications?

Check the included handpieces, optional wavelengths, energy range, spot sizes, pulse duration, and cooling configuration before comparing prices.

4. What support will you receive after purchasing?

Equipment selection is only one part of building a new service. Training, technical assistance, warranty coverage, and access to after-sales support also matter when planning a professional equipment investment.

8. Why Choose Esthe Depot for Your Professional Laser Equipment?

Choosing a laser system involves more than comparing specifications.

You need to understand which technology matches your intended services, which configuration provides the functions you actually need, and what support is available after delivery.

This is where Esthe Depot aims to make the purchasing process more straightforward.

Carefully Selected Equipment for Different Business Needs

Our laser collection brings together different technologies and configurations rather than offering one standardized solution for every salon.

Whether you are planning a dedicated tattoo-removal service, developing a PMU-focused offering, or combining hair reduction with pigment treatments, you can compare equipment according to your business priorities.

One-to-One Training to Support Your Equipment Setup

Understanding the interface, available functions, and equipment operation is important when introducing a new system.

Esthe Depot provides one-to-one training to help customers become familiar with their purchased equipment and its operating features.

Warranty Coverage and Ongoing Technical Assistance

Our customer support does not end when your equipment arrives.

With warranty coverage and ongoing technical guidance, customers have access to assistance with equipment setup, operation, and technical questions after purchase.

European After-Sales Assistance

For European customers, access to responsive support is an important part of purchasing professional equipment.

Esthe Depot aims to make communication, equipment guidance, and after-sales assistance more accessible throughout the ownership process.

We believe professional beauty technology should be accessible to businesses with different budgets and ambitions. Our role is not simply to supply equipment, but to help beauty professionals make more informed purchasing decisions and build services with the right technical foundation.

Explore Your Next Laser Investment with Esthe Depot

Every salon has a different business model.

Some want to focus on conventional tattoo removal. Others see opportunities in permanent makeup correction, multicolored tattoo treatments, or complementary carbon-peel services.

And for businesses planning a wider service menu, combining hair reduction and pigment technology may be a more suitable equipment strategy.

There is no single configuration that fits every business. What matters is choosing technology that aligns with your services, understanding the available specifications, and having reliable support throughout the equipment journey.

Explore Esthe Depot's professional laser collection and find a configuration that matches the services you want to build.

Explore All Aesthetic Laser Systems

Have questions about choosing between Q-Switched and picosecond technology? Contact Esthe Depot for equipment guidance and one-to-one assistance.

Contact Us: info@esthedepot.com