Pico-Second vs. Nano-Second Lasers: What's Best for Tattoo Removal?
- Nicole Blankenship

- Nov 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 29

When it comes to laser tattoo removal, not all lasers are created equal. If you’ve ever asked someone about or read anything regarding laser tattoo removal, you've probably come across phrases such as:
"It was SO painful!"
"It took over 10 sessions to even see a result."
"I had awful scarring afterwards!"
... they were likely talking about older, traditional nano-second lasers.
At The Brow Project Dallas, we're proudly home of the PICOSure Pro Laser - aka, the Rolls Royce of lasers that's setting the new gold standard for tattoo removal technology. It’s faster, gentler, and delivers dramatically better results than older nano laser systems.
So which should you choose? PICO & Nano enter the ring to answer the question, and definitively crown the winner for safe, effective tattoo & brow pigment removal:
- - -
ROUND ONE | The Technology | Tattoo Removal Dallas
NANO | Traditional nanosecond lasers use longer bursts in nanoseconds (one billionth of a second) of heat energy to target ink particles. While this method works per se, it relies heavily on thermal energy - which can cause skin irritation, damage to surrounding tissue, lingering redness, and a slower healing process.
PICO | PICOSure Pro, on the other hand, delivers energy in picoseconds (one trillionth of a second). Instead of heating the ink, it uses rapid, ultra-short pulses that create a photomechanical effect, effectively shattering ink into dust-like particles that your body can then naturally flush out. PicoSure Pro is an advanced laser safe for all skin tones
WINNER | PICOSure Pro removes ink more efficiently & comfortably with less heat, less trauma, and better results in fewer sessions.
ROUND TWO | Number of Sessions
NANO | Traditional nano lasers can require 12–20+ sessions or more for full tattoo clearance, depending on ink density and color.
It's important to note the downtime between sessions as well - you typically have to wait weeks before returning for the next session, so 12-20+ sessions means years before the process is complete.
PICO | With PICOSure Pro, most clients see visible fading after just one session and complete (yes, complete!!) removal in fewer total treatments - sometimes even single-digits. The laser’s precision and advanced wavelength technology make it easier to target even the most stubborn pigments.
WINNER | PICOSure ensures you a tattoo removal journey with fewer appointments, faster results, and less downtime between sessions.
ROUND THREE | Ink Color Versatility
NANO | Older lasers often struggle to remove bright blues, greens, and multicolored inks, meaning the capability for full removal could be limited depending on the tattoo, potentially leaving behind faded but noticeable remnants even after the final session.
PICO | PICOSure Pro uses a 755nm Alexandrite wavelength, one of the most powerful and precise in the industry. It targets difficult colors while being gentle enough for all skin types, including delicate facial areas like brow tattoos & permanent makeup correction.
WINNER | PICOSure Pro clears more ink colors in a much more safe and effective manner than traditional lasers.
ROUND FOUR | Skin Health & Comfort
NANO | Traditional tattoo removal lasers rely on heat, which can irritate the surrounding skin and increase the risk of scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
PICO | PICOSure Pro’s pressure-wave technology minimizes heat damage, while simultaneously stimulating collagen and elastin production. Your skin will look better AND feel smoother throughout the process. This is an unparalleled, advanced laser technology with no
downtime, minimal discomfort and no numbing needed for skin rejuvenation or pigment removal.
WINNER | PICOSure Pro ensures a more comfortable treatment, while improving your skin texture over time.
ROUND FIVE | Recovery Time with PicoSure Pro
NANO | After a traditional nano laser treatment, clients often experience redness, swelling, and sensitivity for days.
PICO | With PICOSure Pro, downtime is incredibly minimal. Because it uses photomechanical energy instead of thermal energy, the surrounding skin tissue remains intact, allowing your body to heal faster between sessions.
WINNER | PICO = quicker recovery, minimal discomfort, and absolutely zero interruption to your lifestyle.
ROUND SIX | Long-Term Skin Rejuvenation Benefits
NANO | ...
PICO | Beyond tattoo removal, PICOSure Pro and the platinum focus lens is also used for skin rejuvenation and pigment correction/neutralization. It’s clinically proven to improve texture, tone, and collagen renewal, making it the only laser that removes ink and enhances your skin quality at the same time.
WINNER | There's no competition here: PICO is your go-to for clearer, healthier, younger-looking skin - even long after your tattoo is gone.
The Verdict: PICOSure Pro Wins Every Time | Dallas Tattoo Removal
If you’re comparing PICOSure Pro vs. traditional nano lasers, the difference is crystal clear. Opt for PICO if you want to experience:
Fewer sessions
Less discomfort
An all skin type-friendly option
More complete pigment clearance
Healthier, rejuvenated skin
Platinum Focus Lens

Whether you’re removing body tattoos, permanent makeup, brow pigment, or sun damage, PICOSure Pro is the superior choice for modern tattoo removal - so if you're in looking for Dallas Tattoo Removal in the DFW area and tired of staring at unwanted tattoos or faded, discolored brow pigment, this is your sign to book now!
The Brow Project's laser body tattoo removal specialist Ross Iallonardo has heavily researched this innovative technology via an extensive array of science-backed medical papers, clinical studies, and case studies from several of the world's leading experts. Believe us when we say this technology is advanced, extensively studied - and incredibly powerful.
During your consult, we'll assess your goals, tattoo size & placement, as well as ink color during your complimentary consultation. From there, we'll create a custom, personalized plan to help you reach your goals.
Pricing is based on the size of the area treated, with multiple package options & a Fract-Tat upgrade available.
You're not stuck with old pigment. Book your complimentary consult today and discover why PICOSure Pro is Dallas’s most advanced and trusted tattoo removal technology.













