Laser Tattoo Removal
Laser Tattoo Removal
As many as 25% of people with tattoos say that they regret at least one of them. If you are one of those people, laser tattoo removal could be for you.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
Tattoo removal lasers work by breaking up the tattoo pigment with a high-intensity light beam. The ink is broken down into tiny fragments that are absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually passed out of the body. Black is the easiest pigment colour to treat because it absorbs all the laser wavelengths. We have
invested in the Inkaway laser system, which also treats other colours. The result of any tattoo removal will depend on certain factors i.e. skin type, location, layering, scarring etc. This will all be discussed during your free first consultation.
What happens during a laser tattoo removal consultation?
Before we begin the removal process, we will carry out an in-depth consultation with you. This will include asking necessary questions about your medical history and any current medications which could affect your treatment. We will also look at the tattoo that you require removing and the skin within that area.
We will discuss the laser treatment in detail, talk you through any pre- and post-treatment advice and go through the formal consent process.
The Treatment
What happens during a laser tattoo removal session?
Generally, the procedure of your laser removal will be:
1. The area of skin to be treated will need to be shaved.
2. Makeup and jewellery in the treatment area must be removed.
3. You will sit or lay down on our comfortable treatment bed.
4. The treatment area will be cleaned with a cleaning solution (usually witch hazel).
5. You will be given a pair of protective eye shields/glasses.
6. The technician will test your skin’s reaction to the laser in order to determine the level of laser energy required.
7. The technician uses the laser to pass pulses of intense light through the top layers of your skin. This light will be absorbed by the tattoo pigment. Depending on the placement of the ink, you may see a whitening of the treatment area, this indicates that the treatment is effective.
8. A gel is used to cool and soothe your skin and a dressing may be used to cover it.
You will most likely feel each light pulse as a short, sharp sting, similar to an elastic band against the skin. This feeling will vary according to different areas of the body. Your operator will adjust the system in accordance with your needs.
Tattoo Removal Aftercare
After the laser treatment, your skin may be red with a slightly raised rash and you may experience some bleeding before the skin scabs over. A cold compress will be applied immediately, and an ointment or cream (usually Aloe Vera) may also be applied. We will advise you on any recommended skin products to use to help the healing process.
Aftercare Guidance
- Do not apply makeup to the treated area until 12 hours after treatment. If the area has any blistering or damage, do not apply makeup until it has healed.
- Do not use perfumed products or any chemical agents on the area until 48 hours after treatment.
- Keep the treated area clean and dry. If this is unavoidable, use a dressing to cover and protect the area for 7 days.
- Try not to scratch, rub or pick the area.
- Do not interfere with any blisters or scabs that develop.
- Avoid tight clothing that may irritate the treated area.
- Avoid steam rooms, saunas, massages or bathing in hot water for 5 days after treatment.
- Avoid contact sport or activities that may irritate the treated area.
- Avoid exfoliation of the treatment area for at least 7 days after treatment.
Your skin will also be more sensitive to the sun, so you must avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks after each session. You must also use a sunscreen with at least 30SPF on the treated area for at least 1 month (4 weeks) after treatment.
A little More Info
Are there any risks or side effects to laser tattoo removal?
Laser treatment is generally the safest form of tattoo removal and has very few side effects. We will talk you through any side effects during your consultation, but you should consider the following:
- There is a slight chance you will have a permanent scar.
- There is a chance your tattoo will not be completely removed.
- You may develop hypopigmentation, meaning that the treated skin is paler than the surrounding area .
- You may developer hyperpigmentation, meaning that the treated skin is darker than the surrounding area.
- Some colours may not completely fade – purple, yellow and green require more sessions to fade than black, blue or red.
How long does tattoo removal take?
It usually requires a number of sessions to see results, with a minimum of 6 weeks between each session. The length of each session depends on the size, colour and area of your tattoo. We will plan and advise the best removal plan for your tattoo in you consultation, so contact us to book one today!
How much does tattoo removal cost?
Our consultations are free, after which we will provide you will a full treatment plan and cost. We also have a cancellation policy.
