What it is
R20 tattoo protocol in Korea is an advanced laser tattoo removal technique that uses four laser passes in one treatment session, spaced 20 minutes apart.
Unlike the traditional method, where only one pass is done per visit, the R20 method allows the laser to penetrate deeper into the tattoo ink during the same session. The idea is that by waiting 20 minutes between passes, the skin recovers enough for another safe round of laser application, leading to faster clearance of tattoo pigments.
→ The name “R20” comes from the “repeat after 20 minutes” process.
• This method is often used in Korea for clients who want faster fading or are preparing for tattoo cover-ups.
• It is particularly effective for black and dark-colored tattoos, though it can also be applied to multicolored designs with caution.
Why it’s done
Patients in Korea choose the R20 protocol for several reasons:
→ Faster results: Instead of waiting months for pigment reduction, multiple passes in one visit lead to greater fading.
→ Fewer sessions: Although each R20 session is longer, the overall number of clinic visits may be reduced.
→ Cover-up preparation: Many clients want tattoos lightened quickly to make room for a new design.
→ Time efficiency: Some patients prefer faster methods due to busy schedules or medical tourism trips.
→ Advanced clinics in Korea: With access to state-of-the-art lasers and experienced dermatologists, the R20 method can be safely administered in controlled environments.
Alternatives
The alternatives to R20 tattoo protocol include:
• Standard single-pass laser removal → The most common approach worldwide, where only one pass is performed per session, spaced 6–8 weeks apart.
• R0 technique → A variation that uses perfluorodecalin (PFD) gel to allow immediate multiple passes without waiting 20 minutes.
• Surgical excision → Cutting out the tattooed skin; suitable only for very small tattoos.
• Dermabrasion → Mechanically sanding down the skin to remove pigment; outdated due to scarring risk.
• Chemical creams or acids → Not reliable, especially for deep tattoo pigments.
→ Compared to these, R20 is unique because it offers quicker fading per session while still using safe, medically approved laser systems.
Preparation
Preparation for the R20 tattoo protocol in Korea is similar to traditional laser removal, but with extra care because of multiple passes:
- Consultation → The dermatologist reviews tattoo size, color, depth, and skin type.
- Skin check → Because the method is more intense, skin must be healthy, without infection or irritation.
- Avoid tanning → No sun exposure for 2–4 weeks before treatment.
- Stop skincare actives → Retinoids, acids, and exfoliants should be paused.
- Medical history → A check for medications, scarring tendencies, or skin conditions.
→ A numbing cream is applied, and cooling devices are prepared since the protocol involves multiple passes in one session.
How it’s done
The R20 tattoo protocol in Korea is performed carefully under professional supervision:
- Skin preparation → Cleansing and application of numbing cream (30–40 minutes before).
- First laser pass → The dermatologist targets the tattoo with a Q-switched Nd:YAG or Pico laser.
- 20-minute wait → The skin is cooled and allowed to recover while whitening (“frosting”) from the first pass subsides.
- Second laser pass → Applied on the same area for deeper pigment disruption.
- Third and fourth passes → Repeated every 20 minutes until four passes are completed.
- Aftercare treatment → Cooling packs, soothing ointments, and dressings are applied.
→ A session can last 2–3 hours due to waiting periods.
→ Many tattoos show more fading in 1–2 R20 sessions than in 4–6 standard single-pass sessions.
Recovery
Recovery after R20 tattoo protocol in Korea can be more intense than standard removal because of repeated passes:
• Redness and swelling → Usually stronger than after single-pass laser.
• Blistering → More common, but manageable with proper aftercare.
• Scabbing → Thicker scabs may form; must not be picked to avoid scarring.
• Discomfort → The area may remain sore for several days.
• Sun protection → Treated skin is highly sensitive and must be shielded with sunscreen (SPF 50+).
→ Despite stronger reactions, most patients recover within 1–2 weeks, provided aftercare instructions are followed.
Complication
Because the R20 method is more aggressive, potential complications include:
- Hyperpigmentation → Darkening of skin, especially in darker skin tones.
- Hypopigmentation → Lightening of treated skin areas.
- Scarring → A higher risk compared to standard single-pass treatments, though still rare in skilled Korean clinics.
- Prolonged redness or blistering → Can last longer than with standard methods.
- Incomplete removal → Some stubborn pigments (especially yellow or fluorescent inks) may not fully respond.
→ Korean dermatologists are cautious with R20, often selecting candidates carefully to reduce these risks.
Treatment option in Korea
In Korea, R20 tattoo protocol is offered in select advanced dermatology and aesthetic clinics:
→ Laser systems → High-end devices like PicoWay, PicoSure, and Q-switched Nd:YAG are standard in Korea, enabling precise multi-pass treatments.
→ Specialist expertise → Only highly trained dermatologists usually perform R20 due to the greater risks involved compared to standard removal.
• Combination therapies → Clinics may combine R20 with healing boosters such as LED light therapy, regenerative serums, or cooling masks to accelerate recovery.
• Patient selection → Not all tattoos or skin types are suitable; Korean specialists carefully assess if R20 is safe and effective for the individual.
• Medical tourism → Many international patients seek this protocol in Korea due to its reputation for advanced, fast-track tattoo removal methods.
→ With cutting-edge technology and expert application, Korea offers some of the safest and most effective R20 tattoo protocol treatments worldwide, balancing speed with patient safety.
