If you're getting a cover-up tattoo, fading the original first dramatically improves the cover-up artist's options. Without fading, dark colors must be covered with even darker colors — limiting design freedom. With proper picosecond fading, cover-up designs can use a much wider color and tonal range.
Why fade first
A cover-up over a dark tattoo requires darker ink to mask it. This severely limits design options. Fading reduces the original ink density 50–70 %, which lets the cover-up artist use lighter colors, white space, and more creative compositions.
Cover-up over un-faded dark tattoo: darker designs, less artistic flexibility, often uglier results.
Cover-up over picosecond-faded tattoo: dramatically more design freedom, lighter colors possible, better aesthetic outcome.
Sessions for fading (not full removal)
- Picosecond fade: 2–3 sessions over 4–6 months
- Nd:YAG fade: 5–8 sessions over 10–14 months
For fading, picosecond's speed advantage is even more significant than for full removal — most patients want to get to the cover-up without waiting 14+ months.
How much fading is enough
60–80 % ink reduction is typically sufficient for cover-up. Coordinate with your tattoo artist before starting fading — they can specify how much fading they need based on the proposed design.
Some designs need only 50% fading; others (whitework cover-ups) need 90%+.
Timing the cover-up
After your last fading session, wait 6–8 weeks before getting the cover-up. The skin needs to heal completely; tattooing into recently-treated skin compromises both the cover-up and the healing.
Color considerations
If your original tattoo has red or green, picosecond's multi-wavelength capability is essential. Color guide.
Cost-effective fading strategy
Fading typically requires 50 % fewer sessions than full removal. Total cost at Elyzea: 2–3 sessions × S/100 (~US$29) = ~US$58–US$87. Significantly cheaper than full removal.
When to do full removal instead
If you've had multiple cover-ups already (layered ink), full removal may be more cost-effective than another fade. Consult an experienced tattoo artist + tattoo-removal physician together.
Coordination with cover-up artist
Ideal workflow:
- Consult cover-up artist about desired design
- Get fading specification from artist
- Schedule fading sessions
- Wait 6-8 weeks after last fading session
- Cover-up tattoo session
Communication between fading clinic and tattoo artist optional but helpful.
Frequently asked questions
How does the artist know if fading is enough?
Artists assess original visibility against design density requirements.
Can I fade only specific areas?
Yes. Targeted fading possible.
What if my tattoo is multi-color?
All colors fade with picosecond multi-wavelength.
Will the new tattoo cover the faded areas perfectly?
Faded areas significantly easier to cover than original full-density.
How long does the entire process take?
Fading 4-6 months + waiting period 6-8 weeks + cover-up session.
Can I do this if I have multiple tattoo cover-ups?
Yes, but more sessions needed.
What about extreme dark tattoos?
May need more fading sessions before adequate cover-up possible.
Bottom line
Picosecond fading for cover-up: 2-3 sessions, ~US$58-87 in Lima vs $400-1,500 in US. Coordinated with tattoo artist for optimal cover-up flexibility.