As the ink fades from vibrant to muted, Jason grapples with the embarrassment of his past tattoos-symbols of youthful choices that no longer reflect his identity. After graduating from South Carolina State University near Orangeburg, SC, he decides it's time for a fresh start. He Googles "tattoo removal near me" but runs into a proverbial wall. For many adults like Jason, finding a trustworthy tattoo removal business proves to be a daunting challenge. There seems to be a sea of options, but none that use the latest tattoo removal tools and technologies for an effective result.
If you're ready to have your tattoos removed so that you can move forward with your life and gain confidence in yourself, Southern Cosmetic Laser is here to help. Unlike some tattoo removal locations, we use The Pico Laser - the gold standard laser for tattoo removal. Before we dive into the benefits of The PicoWay, let's first look deeper into tattoo removals and why so many men and women are choosing to start with a blank slate.
Although tattoos have traditionally been viewed as permanent, advancements in laser technology now allow for effective removal. Studies show that approximately 28 million people in the United States, Canada, and Australia wish to have their tattoos removed. One look at those numbers and it's clear that more and more adults are considering tattoo removal.
But the truth is that tattoo removal isn't always about erasing a mistake. It often signifies growth, change, and new beginnings. Many individuals opt to remove tattoos for reasons that extend beyond mere regret, including:
Some professions - especially those of the white collar variety - have strict appearance standards when it comes to tattoos.
Some people learn that they are allergic to certain types of ink after they've already gotten a tattoo.
Tattoo trends evolve, and what was once trendy may now harm a person's image.
When tattoos don't have the same color and luster they once had, many people choose to get their tattoos removed altogether.
As men and women grow up and enter the workforce, they begin to make money. Greater spending power leads to a higher investment in improving one's personal image.
Sometimes, the symbols and messages you agreed with as a younger person no longer resonate. Tattoo removal is a great way to erase ideologies of the past and to embrace new ideals for the future.
Parenting, marriages, and personal transformations are all common reasons why people choose tattoo removal from Southern Cosmetic Laser.
Your trust, confidence, and satisfaction are our highest priorities - no if's, and's, or but's.
If you're wondering whether tattoo removal is a good choice, ask yourself these questions
If you answered "yes" to any of the questions above, it's worth considering professional tattoo removal. It could be the first step toward a new life full of happiness and progress.
At this point, you're probably wondering how tattoo removal works. Laser tattoo removal stands out as the most advanced and effective method for safely fading or completely removing unwanted tattoos. It operates by directing concentrated pulses of light onto the tattooed skin
These powerful laser beams specifically target the ink pigments, breaking them down into tiny particles. Over the course of several weeks, your body's immune system gradually flushes away these broken ink particles. One of the biggest advantages of laser removal - especially with Southern Cosmetic's Pico Laser - is that it is incredibly precise and effectively targets the ink in your skin while minimizing damage. Another advantage is that tattoo removal is personalized to your preferences and needs.
We use different wavelengths to target different colors, including:
This type of ink is the easiest kind to treat since it absorbs all light wavelengths.
Greens, reds, blues, and other colors are often stubborn and necessitate advanced lasers, like the PicoWay laser.
It's rather difficult to answer this question, as every person has different reasons for getting their tattoos removed, as we outlined above. However, speaking to our patients after successful tattoo removal sessions, we've determined several general benefits associated with removing tattoos, including:
Laser tattoo removal effectively eliminates ink and can enhance the texture of the skin in the treated area. The procedure stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which contributes to skin rejuvenation.
If you're looking to update an old tattoo with a fresh design, laser tattoo removal can help. This process can lighten your old tattoo, making your skin look clearer and more even, so that the new tattoo looks its best.
Getting rid of an unwanted tattoo can truly help reduce feelings of regret about past choices. This positive change allows people to move on without being reminded of something they now see as a mistake.
Tattoo removal in cityaname using the Pico Laser offers a non-invasive solution with minimal downtime, unlike other tattoo removal methods. When you trust Southern Cosmetic Laser with your tattoo removal procedure, you should be able to resume daily activities immediately after treatment. This benefit is ideal if you have a busy lifestyle or have family obligations like attending your kid's sports games.
Many people choose to have their tattoos removed to improve their appearance and feel better about themselves. Southern Cosmetic Laser understands this need and provides a service that not only focuses on getting rid of tattoos but also helps people regain their confidence.
You don't have to be a graduate from The Orangeburg Career Technology Center near Orangeburg, SC to know that pain tolerances vary by person. With that said, many patients describe the sensation as akin to a rubber band snapping against the skin or a quick, hot prick. Sensitive areas may be more uncomfortable than others. However, modern clinics like Southern Cosmetic Laser provide solutions to manage pain, including topical numbing creams, cold air blowers, and local anesthetics.
In most situations, yes. However, predicting complete removal can be challenging due to the variety of unregulated tattoo inks available. The F.D.A. does not oversee tattoo inks, which means many manufacturers and artists create and mix their own formulas. Often, these mixes contain metals and other foreign additives for visual effects. These unknowns make it difficult to guarantee or accurately predict 100% removal.
After getting a tattoo removed, it's common to see some redness and swelling in the area, and it might feel a bit like a sunburn. Sometimes, you might even get blisters. Don't worry-these reactions are normal and usually go away within a few days. However, proper aftercare is a crucial step in the tattoo removal process at Southern Cosmetic Laser. That's why we provide detailed post-treatment instructions after your session.
Some general tips include:
You should know that tattoo removal - regardless of where you get it done - isn't a oneand-done process. Typically, individuals need between 6 and12 sessions, scheduled 6 to 8 weeks apart. This allows for proper skin healing and enables the body to break down the ink effectively. Sessions can last anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes in length. Your exact schedule may vary based on several factors, including:
Tattoos that are 10 or more years old are usually easier to fade.
Colors like red and blue that are bright can take longer to break down.
If your immune system is strong, your body will have a better and more efficient chance of eliminating your ink.
If you have tattoos with heavy ink, it may take longer to remove.
When you get tattoos in areas with good circulation, like your upper body, your tattoo removal tech should have an easier time removing them.
Tattoo removal laser settings can be adjusted depending on the type and tone of your skin. This helps reduce pigmentation change risks.
When it comes to treating acne scars, dark spots, wrinkles, and especially removing tattoos, the PicoWay laser is a top choice because of its cutting-edge technology. Unlike older lasers, the PicoWay laser works by using powerful bursts of energy in very short time frames, minimizing any heat damage to the surrounding skin. This state-of-the-art approach has made the PicoWay laser popular among skin care professionals, and a go-to tattoo removal tool at Southern Cosmetic Laser. As a result, people all over the world are choosing the PicoWay laser to achieve healthier, more desirable skin.
When you're craving a memorable meal, you don't pull up to a drive-thru and expect to get quality food. You book a reservation at the highest-rated Arthur Paul's Steak and Seafood near Orangeburg, SC. Similarly, when you want the most effective tattoo removal services, you don't choose a skin care practice that uses outdated tech. You call Southern Cosmetic Laser and inquire about tattoo removal using the Pico Laser.
PicoWay's laser technology represents a significant advancement in devices tailored for tattoo removal and other skin treatments. The PicoWay system operates using ultrashort picosecond pulses, allowing for precise treatment outcomes. Notably, it is the only picosecond laser with four wavelengths approved for tattoo removal, and it was the first to provide a 730 nm wavelength option for effectively treating challenging blue and green tattoos.
The key aspects of the Pico Laser's tattoo removal technology include:
Traditional tattoo removal lasers typically work in the nanosecond range, but the PicoWay laser enhances this with its high peak power and short pulse durations, providing improved performance and comfort. Its ultra-short pulses generate a powerful photoacoustic effect rather than relying primarily on heat, effectively breaking down pigment particles with lower energy levels.
This leads to faster skin clearance in fewer sessions compared to earlier, slower nanosecond lasers. Moreover, this cutting-edge technology minimizes the impact on surrounding skin, lowering the chances of scarring or heat-related damage.
The PicoWay laser works by sending out incredibly quick bursts of energy, which creates sound waves in the process. This is known as the photoacoustic effect. This technique is especially effective for getting rid of tattoos. When the sound waves hit the tattoo ink, they break it up into tiny pieces, making it easier for the body to get rid of the ink. One of the benefits of the PicoWay laser is that its fast bursts help reduce any heat damage to the skin around the tattoo, keeping it safer during the treatment.
This advanced tattoo removal system adjusts to different factors like the design and type of ink used, allowing people to get the results they want in fewer treatment sessions. This means shorter appointments and quicker healing times for patients.
The PicoWay laser also uses special technology that minimizes heat, making it safer for people with darker skin tones who want tattoo removal. Its ultra-fast pulses effectively break down ink particles while reducing the chances of skin discoloration and scarring, which are common issues with older laser methods.
In clinical trials, many participants reported being very happy with their tattoo removal results using the PicoWay laser. In fact, a study released in 2017 in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology shared some impressive findings about the laser's capabilities. It showed that using lasers with picosecond pulses can clear up to 75% of a tattoo after just one or two treatments. That's a lot of progress in a short time.
Established in 2007, Southern Cosmetic Laser has developed into a diverse practice that specializes in cutting-edge medical aesthetics and skincare treatments, including highly effective tattoo removal. We offer top-notch aesthetic and skincare solutions across South Carolina. Our goal is to surpass the highest standards in patient care, ensuring that your visit is enjoyable, informative, and confidential. Our modern facility is equipped with the latest technology, prioritizing both safety and outstanding results for our patients.
When we say we're here for you, we mean it. We always take the time to understand your desires and how they align with your lifestyle and budget. We'll explore the various options available and weigh the pros and cons of each procedure tailored to your unique needs. We greatly value the trust and support of our patients and are committed to maintaining a stellar reputation in our community.
We're here to answer any questions you may have. Your trust, confidence, and satisfaction are our top priorities. To discover what sets Southern Cosmetic Laser apart from other tattoo removal clinics, don't hesitate to schedule your consultation today.
The schedule is set for the South Carolina High School League’s 2025 state football championships. The games will be held Friday-Saturday (Dec. 5-6) at S.C. State’s Oliver Dawson Stadium in Orangeburg.State Championship ScheduleFriday, Dec. 5——Class 3A——Oceanside Collegiate vs. Belton-Honea Path, 12:06 p.m.——Class A——Bamberg-Ehrhardt vs. Lamar, 4:06 p.m.——Class 5A Division II——...
The schedule is set for the South Carolina High School League’s 2025 state football championships. The games will be held Friday-Saturday (Dec. 5-6) at S.C. State’s Oliver Dawson Stadium in Orangeburg.
Friday, Dec. 5
——Class 3A——
Oceanside Collegiate vs. Belton-Honea Path, 12:06 p.m.
——Class A——
Bamberg-Ehrhardt vs. Lamar, 4:06 p.m.
——Class 5A Division II——
Irmo vs. Northwestern, 7:36 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 6
——Class 4A——
South Florence vs. South Pointe, 12:06 p.m.
——Class 2A——
Hampton County vs. Strom Thurmond, 4:06 p.m.
——Class 5A Division I——
Summerville vs. Dutch Fork, 7:36 p.m.
Tickets are $20 can be purchased at gofan.co or through each of the schools before gameday. Tickets are good for the entire day. Everyone must have a ticket — except a toddler or infant who can sit in a lap.
Gates will open for spectators at 11 a.m. each day. Home fans with tickets will enter through Gate 1. Visiting fans with tickets will enter through Gates 1 and 2 and walk across behind the endzone. Upper State schools are the home teams for this year’s games.
A clear bag policy in place for all spectators. No outside food or drink, or coolers allowed into the stadium.
Parking lots open 10 a.m. both days and cost is $10 per car. Parking passes are available through Gofan.co. Vehicles with trailers, pull behind grills and RV’s will cost $50. Restrooms and Power access available.
Entrance for all traffic is Entrance 5 off Highway 21 (Chestnut St) and Entrance 4 (Goff Avenue).
All six games will be carried on Sinclair Broadcasting stations across South Carolina. Affiliates are WMYA (My40 Asheville-Greenville), WACH Fox digital channel (57.2/1250/Columbia), WCIV (MyTV Charleston) and WWMB (CW21, Florence/Myrtle Beach).
All six games also will be streamed on www.nfhsnetwork.com. A subscription ($11.99) is required but is good for all of the games and a month’s subscription.
Sumter – The pairings are set for the six South Carolina High School League state championship football games to be played on Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, at South Carolina State’s Oliver C. Dawson Stadium in Orangeburg.The action will start at 12:06 p.m. on Friday with the AAA title game pitting Belton-Honea Path versus Oceanside Collegiate Academy followed by the Class ...
Sumter – The pairings are set for the six South Carolina High School League state championship football games to be played on Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, at South Carolina State’s Oliver C. Dawson Stadium in Orangeburg.
The action will start at 12:06 p.m. on Friday with the AAA title game pitting Belton-Honea Path versus Oceanside Collegiate Academy followed by the Class A title game between Lamar and Bamberg-Ehrhardt set for a 4:06 p.m. start. The final game on Friday will be the AAAAA Division II game between Northwestern and Irmo set for a 7:36 p.m. start.
The AAAA game between South Pointe and South Florence will kick off action on Saturday starting at 12:06 p.m. The AA game between Strom Thurmond and Hampton County will follow beginning at 4:06 p.m. The final game will have Dutch Fork taking on Summerville for the AAAAA Division I crown starting at 7:36 p.m.
Three of the games will feature rematches while four teams will be trying to defend state titles. The rematches are Dutch Fork and Summerville, Northwestern and Irmo and BHP and OCA.
Dutch Fork will be playing in its 10th consecutive state championship contest. The Silver Foxes, who are 11-1 on the season, are after their fourth straight title and seventh in the last eight years. They defeated the 12-2 Green Wave 35-21 last season.
Northwestern and Irmo both come into their rematch with 12-1 records. The Trojans will be trying to defend the crown they won in a scintillating 34-31 victory last year. The game was tied 17-17 entering the fourth quarter.
The other rematch will have Oceanside trying to defend its title against undefeated Belton-Honea Path. The 11-2 Landsharks, who are after their third state title in four years, defeated the Bears 35-13. Belton-Honea Path is 14-0.
Like OCA, South Florence will be trying to win its third state title in four years and is playing in its fourths straight title game. The Bruins, who beat Westside for the title last year, come into the contest with a 13-1 record, the same as South Pointe.
The teams have a common opponent in Northwestern. South Florence lost to the Trojans 55-35 on September 5, while the Stallions beat Northwestern 27-23 the following week.
There will be new champions in AA and Class A. Bamberg-Ehrhardt will be trying to cap off a perfect season against 12-2 Lamar. The Red Raiders bring a 14-0 record into the contest.
The AA contest will feature two teams coming in with 9-game winning streaks in 12-2 Strom Thurmond and 11-3 Hampton County.
Tickets are $20 a day and can be purchased at gofan.co or through each of the schools before game day. Tickets are good for the entire day.
Parking lots will open at 10 a.m. each day with the gates opening at 11 a.m. The upper state teams will be the home teams. Home fans will enter through Gate 1 while the visiting fans will enter through gates 1 and 2 and walk across behind the end zone to the visiting stands.
There will be a clear bag policy for all spectators. No outside food or drink, or coolers will be allowed into the stadium.
Parking is $10 per car and parking passes can be purchased through Gofan.co. Vehicles with trailers, pull-behind grills and RVs will cost $50.
SCHSL STATE PLAYOFFS
Semifinal Scores
Friday
5A Division I
Upper State
(1) Dutch Fork 30, (2) Dorman 10
Lower State
(5) Summerville 45, (6) James Island 16
5A Division II
Upper State
(1) Northwestern 51, (3) Indian Land 19
Lower State
(1) Irmo 44, (2) Berkeley 6
pper State
(1) South Pointe 40, (3) Westside 0
Lower State
(1) South Florence 55, (3) Gray Collegiate 14
3A
Upper State
(3) Belton-Honea Path 35, (1) Powdersville 7
Lower State
(1) Oceanside Collegiate 38, (3) Loris 7
2A
Upper State
Strom Thurmond 15, Fairfield Central 13
Lower State
Hampton County 43, Central 22
1A
Upper State
Lamar 48, Lewisville 27
Lower State
Bamberg-Ehrhardt 29, Cross 26
State Championships
At Oliver C. Dawson Stadium
In Orangeburg
Friday, December 5
3A
Belton-Honea Path (14-0) vs. Oceanside Collegiate (12-2), 12:06 p.m.
1A
Lamar (12-2) vs. Bamberg-Ehrhardt (14-0), 4:06 p.m.
5A Division II
Northwestern (12-1) vs. Irmo (12-1), 7:36 p.m.
Saturday
4A
South Pointe (13-1) vs. South Florence (13-1), 12:06 p.m.
2A
Strom Thurmond (12-2) vs. Hampton County (11-3), 4:06 p.m.
5A Division I
Dutch Fork (11-1) vs. Summerville (12-2), 7:36 p.m.
Orangeburg County, SC – A routine noise complaint on Monday evening in Orangeburg County quickly escalated into a major drug and weapons seizure, leaving two men facing multiple felony charges this week.According to the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called just before 7 p.m. to Baugh Street after a resident reported loud noise coming from the area. Sheriff Leroy Ravenell said narcotics were not the initial focus when deputies arrived. “We didn’t go out there with illegal nar...
Orangeburg County, SC – A routine noise complaint on Monday evening in Orangeburg County quickly escalated into a major drug and weapons seizure, leaving two men facing multiple felony charges this week.
According to the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called just before 7 p.m. to Baugh Street after a resident reported loud noise coming from the area. Sheriff Leroy Ravenell said narcotics were not the initial focus when deputies arrived. “We didn’t go out there with illegal narcotics in mind,” Ravenell said. “We went to this location because someone complained about noise.”
Deputies reported spotting several weapons and what appeared to be marijuana inside a vehicle at the scene. A search of the vehicle and a connected apartment uncovered more than 280 grams of marijuana—nearly 10 ounces—and three firearms with multiple magazines, according to investigators.
Ravenell said 24-year-old Tyshon Jefferson was charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute near a school, and three counts of possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
Tamir Shivers, 25, was charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, and possession with intent to distribute near a school, deputies said.
One suspect was taken into custody without incident. Another allegedly tried to flee through a hole in the ceiling of the apartment, leading to what the sheriff described as “probably one of the briefest foot chases on record.”
Both men were expected to appear in bond court Tuesday afternoon.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WIS) - Two overseas companies are investing over $120 million in Orangeburg County to support Scout Motors’ future facility in Blythewood.A joint venture between SODECIA and AAPICO was announced Tuesday, which includes the construction of a 400,000-square-foot facility on St. Matthews Road in Orangeburg. It’s also expected to bring nearly 400 new jobs to the area.“Today’s announcement by Sodecia Aapico JV is another clear vote of confidence in South Carolina’s world-class w...
ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WIS) - Two overseas companies are investing over $120 million in Orangeburg County to support Scout Motors’ future facility in Blythewood.
A joint venture between SODECIA and AAPICO was announced Tuesday, which includes the construction of a 400,000-square-foot facility on St. Matthews Road in Orangeburg. It’s also expected to bring nearly 400 new jobs to the area.
“Today’s announcement by Sodecia Aapico JV is another clear vote of confidence in South Carolina’s world-class workforce, and it will further strengthen our booming automotive industry,” South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster said in a statement. “This announcement is also the latest example of Scout Motors’ arrival driving additional investment and job creation across our state, bringing even more opportunities and prosperity for our people.”
According to a press release, the companies will manufacture advanced ladder frames for Scout Motors and will serve as “a critical parts supplier” for the automaker’s Blythewood production center.
The release also states that SODECIA is a Portugal-based supplier specializing in “engineering and manufacturing innovative structural components, powertrain systems and mechanisms for the world’s leading automotive manufacturers.”
AAPICO, meanwhile, is based in Thailand and focuses on “the production of jigs, dies, press parts, chassis frame components, cradles, plastic parts, and forged and machined components.”
“We appreciate companies that see value in Orangeburg County – our workforce, our location and our commitment to support industry. We welcome Sodecia Aapico JV and look forward to the positive impact this project will have for our residents," Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright said in a statement.
Construction of the SODECIA and AAPICO facility is scheduled to be finished in 2027.
Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WIS. For more free content like this, subscribe to our , and . Have feedback that can help us improve? .
Copyright 2025 WIS. All rights reserved.
Orangeburg, SC – Residents across Orangeburg County are being warned today about a renewed wave of phone scams involving fake claims of missed jury duty, according to the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office.According to Sheriff Leroy Ravenell, the department has seen an uptick in schemes where callers falsely tell victims they missed court, jury duty, or have an outstanding bench warrant. The callers then pressure victims to pay a supposed “fine” over the phone to avoid arrest. “There&rsqu...
Orangeburg, SC – Residents across Orangeburg County are being warned today about a renewed wave of phone scams involving fake claims of missed jury duty, according to the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office.
According to Sheriff Leroy Ravenell, the department has seen an uptick in schemes where callers falsely tell victims they missed court, jury duty, or have an outstanding bench warrant. The callers then pressure victims to pay a supposed “fine” over the phone to avoid arrest. “There’s been a rise in the number of court-related scams,” Ravenell said. “Well, be the Grinch, and don’t give them a dime. You don’t pay for missed jury duty or pay for a bench warrant over the phone.”
Ravenell said he has been notified of multiple reports this week. In most cases, the scammer claims the victim failed to appear for jury service and now faces legal consequences. Some callers allegedly use the names of real Orangeburg County deputies to make the threat feel credible.
“But poof! If you pay a ‘fine,’ the scammer will get you out of it,” Ravenell said. “And they’ll use the names of some of my officers to make themselves seem like the real thing.”
The sheriff stressed that no law enforcement agency in South Carolina demands payment by phone, and legitimate warrants are never resolved through gift cards, payment apps, or phone transfers. Anyone receiving such a call is urged to hang up immediately and report it to the Orangeburg County Communications Center at 803-534-3550.
Residents who have already provided money or personal information are encouraged to file a report as soon as possible.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!