A system and method for tattoo removal utilizing controlled acoustic energy deposition is disclosed. The system and method can generate an acousto-mechanical or acousto-elastic effect in tattoo pigment particles or agglomerates of pigment particles. The acousto-mechanical or acousto-elastic effect can induce a fragmentation of the pigment particles or agglomerates of pigment particles, creating sub-particles of a size which can be less visible from the surface of the skin or cleared from dermal tissue entirely.
