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 Southeastern College Charleston near Summerville, 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 Archway Academy near Summerville, 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 La Rustica on Magnolia near Summerville, 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.
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCSC) — Residents and business owners are expressing frustration with the ongoing Main Street Resurfacing Project, saying the unfinished construction is disrupting daily commutes and creating hazardous driving conditions.Residents say the project has left drivers navigating bumps 2 to 3 inches high where old and new pavement meet.The South Carolina Department of Transportation, which owns and maintains the road, completed the first layer of pavement but has not finished the second layer, creating incons...
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCSC) — Residents and business owners are expressing frustration with the ongoing Main Street Resurfacing Project, saying the unfinished construction is disrupting daily commutes and creating hazardous driving conditions.
Residents say the project has left drivers navigating bumps 2 to 3 inches high where old and new pavement meet.
The South Carolina Department of Transportation, which owns and maintains the road, completed the first layer of pavement but has not finished the second layer, creating inconsistencies in the road surface, the Town of Summerville says.
“They block intersections and I know they have to do that, but then when they leave it’s like nothing’s been done,” Barbara Dunning, a Summerville business owner at one of the intersections on Main Street, said.
Dunning said she drives slowly over the uneven sections to avoid tire damage.
“I drive very slowly over that hump because I don’t want my tires to bust,” she said.
Town officials say they have received numerous complaints about the project’s status and have contacted SCDOT to address residents’ concerns.
“We want to be excellent here at the town. And when a road is just not up to par, then people notice. And we love that. We want a community that says, ‘Hey, this isn’t up to par,’” Christopher Makowski, with the Town of Summerville, said.
Makowski said town officials had a productive conversation with SCDOT about the project’s problems and are using their partnership to expedite completion.
“We had a conversation with SCDOT, and we use that partnership that we have already built throughout all these years to be able to get a response and understand what’s going on and hopefully expedite the process so the project can get done,” he said.
SCDOT declined an interview but said they will continue working with their contractor and expect the project to be completed by the end of the year, weather permitting.
A long-anticipated Publix supermarket is finally turning dirt in Summerville’s Summers Corner development at 1612 Beech Hill Road.First announced in January, the project generated new buzz Nov. 23 after the neighborhood posted the news on its Facebook page that the site is finally under construction. The post garnering 900 likes and more than 200 shares in just days.A spokesperson for the Lakeland, Fla.-based grocer said the store expects to hire about 140 employees.The Publix will...
A long-anticipated Publix supermarket is finally turning dirt in Summerville’s Summers Corner development at 1612 Beech Hill Road.
First announced in January, the project generated new buzz Nov. 23 after the neighborhood posted the news on its Facebook page that the site is finally under construction. The post garnering 900 likes and more than 200 shares in just days.
A spokesperson for the Lakeland, Fla.-based grocer said the store expects to hire about 140 employees.
The Publix will be the anchor tenant for the new retail center, with plans calling for a 50,800-square-foot supermarket and eight 1,200-square-foot suites.
At full buildout, Summers Corner is expected to exceed 7,500 homes.
On a related note, Publix will mark its return to Daniel Island next Wednesday at 7 a.m., after a nearly year-long absence that left DI without its own full-service grocery store. The chain closed its original location at 162 Seven Farms Road in late 2024 and rebuilt a larger supermarket in its place in less than 12 months.
Ruby Tuesday has pulled out of North Charleston leaving the chain with just one Lowcountry restaurant.
A sign on the door at 7400 Northside Drive directs customers to the West Ashley location at 1953 Savannah Highway. Company representatives did not respond to a request for comment.
Maryville, Tenn.-based Ruby Tuesday is owned NRD Capital, a private equity firm. The casual dining closed its Summerville location earlier this year.
Floor & Decor has opened its long-awaited warehouse store and design center at 1155 Holliday Farms Blvd. next to The Home Depot in Highway 17 in Mount Pleasant.
The new store employs about 50 workers and is led by Matthew Peiffer, whose title is chief executive merchant.
The Atlanta-based retailer specializes in flooring for homeowners and professionals. It operates more than 250 warehouse-style outlets nationwide, including South Carolina stores in North Charleston, Columbia, Greenville and Murrells Inlet.
A ribbon cutting is set for Dec. 2 at the Mount Pleasant store, featuring giveaways including a $5,000 floor makeover and 2026 Charleston Southern University football season tickets.
Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant, a mainstay luxury boutique that plans to open a second location in downtown Charleston, has unveiled five holiday window displays with a 1967-era Palm Springs, Calif. theme.
The department store’s inspiration this year is “A Holiday on Holiday” concept, capturing “the golden glow of a retro holiday.”
The mid-century-inspired vignettes include glittering garments, glowing pink flamingos and rotating disco balls that channel holiday department-store spectacles in major cities.
A food truck is opening a brick-and-mortar downtown.
Luther’s Market & Eatery, known for its pastas, casseroles and sauces, will take over 227 Rutledge Ave., formerly home to Pinot & Provisions, which closed Oct. 31.
The new tenant is expected to open in January and will offer global comfort foods from the mother-and-son duo of Kiki Luthringshausen and Hudson Luthringshausen. Until then, their pastas and sauces are currently available via their food truck and at Corner Store, a grab-and-go market that opened this summer in West Ashley in the former home of Taco Bartina.
First Watch, a breakfast, brunch and lunch spot, will open its third Lowcountry restaurant on Dec. 15 at the Market Place at Carnes Crossroads in Goose Creek. Founded in 1983, the Florida-based chain operates more than 620 restaurants in 32 states, including locations in Summerville, North Charleston and Mount Pleasant.
The Joy Market has returned to Citadel Mall in West Ashley with a rotating lineup of local vendors selling holiday goods. It runs Nov. 26–Dec. 30 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with gift-wrapping available.
Park Circle home-decor shop Neighborly will celebrate its one-year anniversary with a holiday market on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29 with live music, food trucks and 18 vendors.
The event will run from noon to 5 p.m.
Tanger Outlets in North Charleston will bring winter magic to shoppers with “snow flurries” every Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. from Nov. 29 until Dec. 20 near the shopping center’s 40-foot-tall Christmas tree.
Kids can also leave messages for Santa via the mall’s “Santa Hotline.”
A national indoor pickleball club operator that's opening in North Charleston next month has announced a partnership with a fashion brand created for the sport's “court-to-cocktail” lifestyle.
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.
It is Week 2 of the SCHSL and SCISA high school football playoffs.SCHSL Class 5A Division IUpper StateDutch Fork 42, Boiling Springs 7Byrnes 37, Rock Hill 21Dorman 44, Blythewood 13Ridge View 29, Spartanburg 21Lower StateCarolina Forest 49, Fort Dorchester 0Summerville 48, Ashley Ridge 27James Island 42, Sumter 35Stratford 40, River Bluff 35Nov. 21Upper State(4) Byrnes at (1) Dutch Fork(3) Ridge View at (2) D...
It is Week 2 of the SCHSL and SCISA high school football playoffs.
Upper State
Dutch Fork 42, Boiling Springs 7
Byrnes 37, Rock Hill 21
Dorman 44, Blythewood 13
Ridge View 29, Spartanburg 21
Lower State
Carolina Forest 49, Fort Dorchester 0
Summerville 48, Ashley Ridge 27
James Island 42, Sumter 35
Stratford 40, River Bluff 35
Nov. 21
Upper State
(4) Byrnes at (1) Dutch Fork
(3) Ridge View at (2) Dorman
Lower State
(5) Summerville at (1) Carolina Forest
(6) James Island at (2) Stratford
Upper State
Northwestern 42, Catawba Ridge 7
Gaffney 38, Greenwood 31
Indian Land 40, Hillcrest 10
TL Hanna 38, Greenville 14
Lower State
Irmo 41, Lugoff-Elgin 16
White Knoll 14, Lucy Beckham 10
Myrtle Beach 24, West Florence 21
Berkeley 48, Westwood 20
Nov. 21
Upper State
(5) Gaffney at (1) Northwestern
(3) Indian Land at (2) TL Hanna
Lower State
(4) White Knoll at (1) Irmo
(3) Berkeley at (2) Myrtle Beach
Upper State
South Pointe 49, Fountain Inn 0
AC Flora 34, Seneca 21
Westside 55, Wren 20
Camden 52, Daniel 14
Lower State
South Florence 43, Bishop England 0
North Augusta 35, Gilbert 7
Gray Collegiate 49, Hartsville 28
Hilton Head 31, Wilson 7
Nov. 21
Upper State
(5) AC Flora at (1) South Pointe
(7) Camden at (3) Westside
Lower State
(4) North Augusta at (1) South Florence
(3) Gray Collegiate at (2) Hilton Head Island
Upper State
Powdersville 30, Pendleton 7
Mountain View Prep 50, Crescent 49
Belton-Honea Path 52, Southside Christian 6
Woodruff 40, Christ Church 37
Lower State
Oceanside Collegiate 24, Marlboro County 7
Dillon 42, Silver Bluff 7
Loris 56, Orangeburg-Wilkinson 20
Newberry 41, Hanahan 21
Nov. 21
Upper State
(5) Mountain View Prep at (1) Powdersville
(3) Belton-Honea Path at (2) Woodruff
Lower State
(4) Dillon at (1) Oceanside Collegiate
(3) Loris at (2) Newberry
Upper State
Clinton 35, Saluda 26
Fairfield Central 36, Andrew Jackson 0
Chester 42, Batesburg-Leesville 28
Strom Thurmond 48, Liberty 21
Lower State
Hampton County 28, Cheraw 10
Manning 46, Timberland 24
Central 49, East Clarendon 28
Philip Simmons 17, Atlantic Collegiate 7
Nov. 21
Upper State
Fairfield Central at Clinton
Chester at Strom Thurmond
Lower State
Hampton County vs. Manning
Central at Philip Simmons
Upper State
Lewisville 29, Abbeville 28
CA Johnson 28, Blackville-Hilda 0
Hunter-Kinard-Tyler 36, Ware Shoals 12
Lamar 36, Wagener-Salley 6
Lower State
Cross 38, Bethune Bowman 0
Johnsonville 38, Scott’s Branch 14
Carvers Bay 56, Lake View 8
Bamberg-Ehrhardt 49, Latta 6
Nov. 21
Upper State
CA Johnson at Lewisville
Hunter-Kinard Tyler at Lamar
Lower State
Johnsonville at Cross
Carvers Bay at Bamberg-Ehrhardt
Northwood 34, Porter-Gaud 20
Heathwood 16, Hammond 13
Wilson Hall 50, Hilton Head Christian 29
Pinewood Prep 45, Florence Christian 6
Pee Dee Academy 34, Hilton Head Prep 33
Bethesda 32, Greenwood Christian 14
Colleton Prep 22, Dorchester Academy 16
Williamsburg Academy 37, Thomas Heyward 20
WW King 74, Jefferson Davis 28
Laurens Academy 30, Holly Hill 24
Nov. 21
At Calhoun Academy
8-Man: WW King vs. Laurens Academy, 7:30 p.m.
At South Carolina State
Nov. 21
Class 4A: Heathwood Hall vs. Northwood, 7 p.m.
Nov. 22
Class 2A: Pee Dee Academy vs. Bethesda, noon
Class A: Colleton Prep vs. Williamsburg Academy, 3:30 p.m.
Class 3A: Wilson Hall vs. Pinewood Prep, 7:30 p.m.