Complete Guide to Evaluating the Latest Laser Tattoo Removal Machines

Understanding Laser Tattoo Removal Process

Knowing the basics of how a tattoo removal laser machine works is crucial in deciding which machines are the best for both safe and effective removal. The laser machine generates short pulses of high-intensity light to the target area, causing the tattoo ink to shatter while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed. These newly- shattered ink particles are then harmlessly removed through your body’s immune system in the following weeks. With time and continued sessions, a seemingly permanent tattoo can be removed. 

Learn more about the laser technology in Removery’s resource: Why we only use PicoWay® Laser Tattoo Removal Technology

Another important factor when determining the best removal equipment is wavelengths, pulse duration, and spot size. All lasers have options to utilize multiple wavelengths in order to effectively target different ink colors within the skin. The amount of power available within a pulse at a certain wavelength determines how efficiently a tattoo can be removed while leaving the remaining tissue unharmed.

Types of Laser Wavelengths Used for Tattoo Removal

Typically, there are two wavelengths utilized to target tattoo ink: 1064 nm and 523 nm. Each wavelength is best utilized for a variety of ink pigments across the spectrum. 

It’s important to invest in a laser that operates with multiple wavelengths to target all ink pigments in a variety of skin tones.

Learn about the best wavelengths to use on different skin types through Removery’s resource:  How Laser Tattoo Removal Works for Different Skin Tones

The following lasers are currently available on the market in both picosecond and q-switched pulse durations: 

• Q-switched Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm, 532 nm). The 1064 nm wavelength is FDA approved to remove black and tribal blues. The 532 nm wavelength is useful for removing red and reducing orange, purple, and other warm toned colors. 
• Q-switched alexandrite laser (755 nm) which is useful for removing difficult light blue and green pigments. 
• Q-switched ruby laser (694 nm) which is useful for removing difficult light blue and green pigments. 

As you can see, wavelength is a light spectrum. 1064 nm lives in the infrared category of wavelengths, meaning it is not visible to the human eye. 532 – 785 nm live within the visible light spectrum. 755 nm and 694 nm are better wavelengths for treating greens and blues and 532 nm is best for treating orange and red ink pigments. Unlike 1064 nm, the 532 nm requires a longer pulse duration due to the wavelength which creates more heat that is released into the skin. 

The difference between picosecond and nanosecond is that a picosecond is 1000X shorter than a nanosecond. The pulse duration of the picosecond laser is one trillionth of a second, which allows the energy to be released in a shorter period of time compared to the nanosecond laser. This reduces the amount of heat exposed to the surrounding tissue.

We recommend opting for a laser tattoo removal machine that operates in picoseconds. Pico laser technology paired with a highly trained, laser professional can remove a variety of “permanent” tattoos from any body.

Factors to Consider When Evaluating the Best Laser Tattoo Removal Machine to Buy

In addition to the basic functions of a tattoo removal laser, you will need to consider a few other important factors when investing in a tattoo removal machine:

• The laser technology and which lasers are best for tattoo removal services: cosmetic, professional, or amateur tattoos. 
• Spot size and why it’s important to have spot sizes available for your removal equipment. 
• Ease of use, such as checking reviews and guides for detailed guidance. 

There is tattoo removal equipment available for cosmetic, professional, and amateur tattoos. Tattoo ink, unlike removal machines, is not FDA regulated.

• Cosmetic ink can be removed, but has the potential to oxidize depending on the color. Typically, it’s best to use a Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm) or the alexandrite laser (755 nm-730 nm) when treating black, gray, or brown brows.  
• Professional ink (even from a reputable artist) can have heavy metals, lipids, and other components that can affect the removal process. The best wavelength to use for professional ink is determined by the ink color. Typically it’s recommended to use the Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm, 532 nm) to treat dark pigments like black, blue, and warm toned colors. However, the alexandrite or ruby (755 nm & 694 nm) lasers would prove most effective to remove light blues and green pigments. to remove. 
• Amateur tattoo ink could be made out of anything. From Indian ink to soot, anything can be used to permanently distribute pigment within the dermis. Armature tattoos are typically done with a black pigment and recommended to be removed with the Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm) to target the black pigment. 

The best tattoo removal laser machine will have a variety of spot sizes. Large spot sizes such as 10 mm target the deepest ink, while smaller ones such as 3mm target ink that is closest to the surface. We find that starting with a larger spot size to target the deepest ink, then working to the surface with smaller spot sizes is the most effective method to remove tattoos safely.

You will also have to consider the ease of use. It’s important to check the reviews for the laser of your choosing. Analyze the size of the laser tattoo removal equipment, its accessibility, cost, and technology.

How Much Do Laser Tattoo Removal Machines Cost?

The cost of tattoo removal lasers can vary greatly. A tattoo removal machine can cost anywhere from $100-$200,000, which is mainly determined by the quality of the laser.

For businesses, it is important to invest in the best laser technology available to ensure your services are the highest quality possible. With a professional laser, clients can expect to spend around $1,000-$2,000 for a complete removal service and $400-$600 to fade for a tattoo coverup.

Learn more about tattoo removal costs with Removery’s resource:  Laser Tattoo Removal Cost

There are ways to reduce the cost of a professional tattoo machine, including leasing the technology or buying it pre-owned/used.

Pros and Cons to Buying or Leasing a New Tattoo Machine

Pros

If you are not ready to commit to investing in a tattoo laser removal machine, there are laser manufacturers who will lease a new machine to you. With a new machine, there is less risk of the product being broken or damaged–whether you lease it or purchase it outright. Purchasing a tattoo removal machine is a great option if you are fully committed to starting your laser removal operation.

Cons

Overall, the cons of buying or leasing a new machine have to do with cost. It will be more expensive to purchase a quality laser tattoo removal machine, which might be a difficult investment depending on your finances. In that case, leasing may be a better option; however, you will not have ownership of the laser if you go that route.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Laser Tattoo Removal Machine

Pros

Typically, a used laser will be cheaper to purchase compared to a new tattoo removal machine. With used lasers, you can hear from the seller’s experience how the machine operates, any weird quirks the technology may have, and tips/tricks to optimizing your machine.

Cons

When buying a used tattoo removal machine, you risk purchasing broken or damaged equipment–sometimes without even knowing. There could be internal damage that is not visible upon purchase, or the previous owner might’ve skipped proper maintenance for a substantial period of time. Many laser manufacturers charge a hefty fee to service the laser and bring it back to operational quality. Although the initial cost of purchasing a used laser tattoo removal machine may be low, you might have to invest a lot of money to fix the machine.

Buying a laser can lead to quite a few barriers, specifically in financing options provided by laser manufacturers. Many require a significant investment upfront, which can be incredibly difficult for some to manage.

The Best Laser Tattoo Removal Machine

Based on our standards and expertise, these machines are the best picosecond and nanosecond lasers available in 2026.

1) Candela PicoWay Tattoo Removal Laser Machine

The Candela PicoWay Laser tattoo removal machine is at the top of our list–and it’s the only laser Removery uses for tattoo removal services. This machine operates with a photoacoustic effect rather than a photothermal effect, reducing the risk of the skin being damaged. This laser comes with the wavelengths 1064 nm and 532 nm installed, but 785 nm and 730 nm can be attached to the laser machine if needed. The PicoWay laser is the ultimate tattoo removal machine due to the variety of wavelengths available and the photoacoustic technology. See our before & after gallery for results produced by the Candela PicoWay laser.

Pros:

The PicoWay is FDA regulated, and offers a variety of benefits in the tattoo removal process: photoacoustic effects to minimize skin damage, and 4 picosecond wavelengths to target ink colors across the Fitzpatrick Scale.,This laser significantly reduces the risk of hypopigmentation for darker skin types, and the PicoWay can even be used to treat acne scars, wrinkles, and benign lesions.

Cons:

The Candela PicoWay Laser is one of the most expensive lasers on the market, retailing for around $175,000. Depending on your state’s laser regulations, it can only be operated by a certified laser professional, a registered nurse, or a doctor.

Best for:

With 4 wavelengths and adjustable handpieces, the Candela PicoWay can target most ink colors and every tattoo size.

Price range:

Around $175,000

2) Quanta Pico Discovery Tattoo Removal Laser Machine

The Quanta Pico Discovery tattoo removal machine uses the Nd: YAG (1064 nm, 532 nm) wavelengths with the 694 nm also available.

Pros:

The Quanta Pico Discovery laser uses the 1064 nm, 532 nm, and 694 nm wavelengths which target most ink colors. Similar to the PicoWay, this laser uses a photoacoustic effect to shatter ink while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed. The Quanta Pico Discovery laser uses fractional treatments which take advantage of two different laser actions. The laser uses LIOBs for collagen remodeling, which is great for treating wrinkles and acne scars.

Cons:

Just like the Candela PicoWay laser, the Quanta Pico Discovery is more expensive than most. This laser also must be used by a certified laser professional, a registered nurse, or a doctor depending on your state’s regulations. Unlike the Candela PicoWay laser, the Quanta Pico Discovery laser only uses 3 wavelengths to target ink color.

Best for:

Most tattoo types and sizes. 

Price range:

Around $100,000

3) PicoSure Tattoo Removal Laser by Cynosure

The PicoSure Laser tattoo removal machine by Cynosure is the world’s first picosecond aesthetic laser. It uses 3 wavelengths (1064 nm, 755 nm, 532 nm) and photothermal effects.

Pros:

The PicoSure laser has 3 wavelengths that can target most ink colors across the spectrum. It operates in picoseconds which should reduce the risk of surrounding skin damage, and it has an adjustable spot size of up to 10mm.

Cons:

The PicoSure laser uses photothermal effects, which uses heat to break the ink particles apart. This poses a great risk of burning the skin or causing hypopigmentation. Skin types 5 and 6 cannot be treated safely with this laser, often causing hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation.

Best for:

Most tattoo types and sizes. 

Price range:

Around $100,000

4) Lutronic Spectra Nano Laser Tattoo Removal Machine

 The Lutronic Spectra nano laser tattoo removal machine uses four wavelengths (1064 nm, 532 nm, 585 nm, 650 nm) to target all ink colors across the spectrum. It operates in short 5-10 ns pulses and has different spot sizes available for treatments.

Pros:

The Lutronic Spectra laser utilizes multiple wavelengths to target all types of ink pigments, along with auto-sensing spot sizes. The laser operates in short 5-10 ns pulses and offers .8 mm – 8 mm spot sizes.

Cons:

The Lutronic Spectra does not offer the largest spot size available (10 mm), which can make targeting the deepest ink particles more difficult. Because this laser works in nanoseconds, treatments require more energy and distributes more heat to the surrounding tissue.

Price range:

Around $17,000

5) Cynosure RevLite SI Laser Tattoo Removal Equipment

The RevLite SIlaser tattoo removal laser machine is a q-switched, multi-wavelength laser that treats tattoos, acne scars, wrinkles, and pigmented lesions.

Pros:

The RevLite SI offers two wavelengths (1064 nm, 532 nm) to treat most ink pigments across the spectrum. This laser offers a variety of other perks such as a SmartInfinite handpiece, photoacoustic technology, multiple spot size adjustments, and precision beam technology.

Cons:

The RevLite SI only operates in two wavelengths which are best for black and red pigments. Because of this, blues and greens cannot be targeted nearly as well as the other lasers. Because this laser operates in nanoseconds, more heat will ultimately be distributed to the surrounding skin tissue than other lasers.

Price range:

$$$

6) Quanta Q Plus C Tattoo Removal Laser Machine

The Q Plus tattoo removal laser machine can have two different laser sources inserted:, the pure q-switched or hybrid q-switched technology. It also has 6 different configurations available for adaptability.

Pros:

The Q Plus laser offers the Optibeam II handpiece, providing different flat-top spot sizes and contact skin cooler to keep the target area cool when treating. It also offers twain handpieces to treat both hair removal (Twain IPL) and tattoo removal (Twain 2940).

Cons:

Each piece of the laser is an additional cost, rather than being automatically integrated or included upon purchasing the machine. You will pay an initial price for the laser, and then additional costs for any technology add-ons you want to purchase. The Q Plus laser can offer Q-switched, Er:YAG wavelength options at an additional cost. This laser also operateso in nanoseconds, increasing the risk of distributing heat to the surrounding tissue.

Price range:

$$$$

7) NEATCELL Hand-Held Tattoo Removal Laser Machine (At-Home Option)

The Neatcell Hand-Held Laser tattoo machine is a small, portable laser that you can purchase from Amazon. Claiming to be a picosecond pen, this handheld machine offers 9 kinds of light output frequencies and 4 different light intensities. This product is mainly used to remove moles, “wash tattoos” and spots.

Pros:

The Neatcell Handheld can be purchased and operated by regular consumers, making it cheaper than professional removal services. It’s a hand-held laser pen that comes with a USB charger and protective eyewear.

Cons:

The Neatcell Hand-Held laser is not FDA certified and does not require a certified laser professional, allowing anyone to purchase the machine and operate it..This laser is very ambiguous regarding its capabilities, light intensities, and frequencies–and thus, its safety and effectiveness is relatively non-existent. Because this laser can be operated by anyone, there are great risks to one’s skin safety while using this laser, specifically hypopigmentation.

Best for:

At-home DIYers and small tattoos (though it’s not recommended to do so)

Price range:

$

How to Choose a Laser Tattoo Removal Machine

When buying a laser tattoo removal machine, you should consider the laser’s quality, its wavelengths, additional settings, and the overall cost of the machine.

If you’re contemplating purchasing tattoo removal equipment, reach out to Removery with any questions you might have.

What Removery’s Experts Are Saying About Tattoo Removal Machine Selection

Clinical Advisory Board member and Co-Chief Medical Officer, Bill Kwan, MD brings over 25 years of dermatology experience to Removery. Throughout his extensive career, Dr. Kwan has gained an incredible understanding of tattoo removal technology, and what exactly makes specific tattoo removal machines more quality than others.

Before picosecond technology, q-switch lasers were the only laser used for tattoo removal treatments. Though these lasers were the “industry standard” at the time, they provided plenty of room for technological advancements. The q-switch laser was notorious for its inability to break down ink particles effectively, often causing clients to need more treatments for a full removal. “The q-switch laser also generates more heat in the tissue, which can lead to more risk of changing your skin color or scarring,” says Dr. Kwan. Q-switch lasers are still used at some tattoo removal clinics today; however, they are no longer considered the most advanced technology available.

Ultimately, the PicoWay laser remains Dr. Kwan’s top choice for safe and effective tattoo removal treatments. The Candela PicoWay laser uses a method called selective photothermolysis, allowing ink particles to be targeted directly without harming surrounding skin tissue—unlike the q-switch laser. Not only does this make laser tattoo removal safer for skin, but it also can reduce the total amount of treatments needed for some clients. The PicoWay is reliable, effective, and highly recommended by many industry experts. “If the patient has the opportunity to be treated with [the PicoWay], that’s the way they should go,” says Dr. Kwan.