Considering Tattoo Removal? Here's What to Expect.

How are tattoos removed?

Q-Switched Nd:YAG lasers are used to target the pigment in tattoo ink that resides below the skins surface and fragment it into small pieces.  Your body’s natural immune system will then absorb, break down and dispose of the ink.  Topical tattoo removal creams sold over the counter are extremely ineffective at removing tattoos. no clinical study to date has shown they actually work.

Is laser tattoo removal painful?

Each person perceives pain differently, so there is no definitive answer.  There will be some mild discomfort that is often associated with a hot rubber band being snapped on the skin.  Within minutes of the procedure being finished, most clients report little to no discomfort at all.

How many treatments are needed?

The age, location and quality of the tattoo and colors used, combined with your body’s ability to dispose of the ink will determine the total number of treatments needed.  For complete* tattoo removal, an average of 10-12 laser tattoo removal treatments will be needed, however every person and tattoo is unique and some might require more while others require less.  For tattoos that will be covered up, an average of 2-5 laser tattoo removal treatments will be needed, depending on the size and pigment density of your current piece, the desired cover-up tattoo and how comfortable your artists is doing the new tattoo.  We will work with you and your tattoo artist to determine how many tattoo removal treatments will be needed.  Homemade tattoos often require as little as 4 laser tattoo removal treatments to completely remove, however each tattoo on each person is unique and there will be some variance.

How long do I have to wait between treatments?

Each person recovers differently, we generally suggest 5-6 weeks between treatments however depending on the total goal, pigment saturation and other factors it could be 12-24 weeks.

Will my tattoo be completely removed?

In most cases, yes, however there are no FDA regulations on tattoo ink and several hundred different colors, manufactures and formulas so each tattoo fades at a different rate.  Some colors may require more treatments to remove.  There is also a possibility that a small amount of pigment may remain in the skin, typically we call this ghosting and for most clients, this is acceptable to be considered a removed tattoo.  

What if I only want to lighten my tattoo / get it covered?

Choosing to have your tattoo lightened prior to a cover up will result in a much better quality final tattoo, and is often suggested by tattoo artists.  We can stop treatments when your tattoo artists is happy with the results and confident they can give you the tattoo you desire.

Will there be any scarring?

The chances of scaring are very low, however it is possible if the aftercare instructions are not followed.  There is a slight possibility of hyper-pigmentation or hypo-pigmentation, which will be covered during your initial consultation.  Preexisting scars present prior to laser tattoo removal will still be there after treatments, only the inks will be targeted and effected.

Can I have only part of my tattoo removed?

Yes.  Often times there is a portion of a tattoo that you would like removed and / or covered, and we can target just those portions of your tattoo.

Will I see changes after each treatment?

Because of the inconsistency in tattoo ink and each client being different, you may not see a change after each session, although most clients will see immediate change after the very first treatment.  It is not uncommon for the tattoo to become darker and more bold within the first 72 hours of treatment, then to start showing signs of fading 14-21 days later.  We photograph and record each tattoo prior to treatment so we can plot progress for you.

What should I do before my treatment?

Wash and clean the skin, shave any hair the night before or morning of and avoid any lotions or body glitter prior to treatment.  When you come into the office, wear comfortable clothing so we can easily access the tattoo and eat a few hours prior to treatment.

Schedule Your FREE Laser Tattoo Removal Consultation HERE