Tattoo Removal

How does a laser remove a tattoo?

The laser uses a beam of light to reduce all the ink particles from the tattoo significantly. Breaking down the tattoo into fragments for your body to absorb using your immune system. The laser targets explicitly the tattoo; therefore doesn’t damage any surrounding skin.

How long does it take to remove a tattoo with a laser?

Depending on the colour and the tattoo’s size, it will depend on how many sessions you need to remove the tattoo; it’s usually 4 to 8 sessions about 4 to 8 weeks apart. After each session, the process usually takes a few weeks, and each time you have the tattoo treated, it will become lighter and more patchy.

What are the side effects of tattoo removal?

Side effects can include a slight redness after the treatment around the tattoo, and it may appear a little swollen with a few blisters. This is all completely normal and will disappear over a few days.

Aftercare – immediately after the treatment, an anti-bacterial ointment can be applied with a non-adhesive gauze to the treated area to minimise any infection.

Will the laser cause any scars?

Before the procedure, I will specifically feel the tattoo to see if there are any raised areas or scarred tissue, this is an indication that the original tattoo was applied too deeply to the skin and a scar has formed from the original tattoo. When the tattoo is removed, the raised skin area from the original tattoo will be revealed; however, the laser doesn’t cause any scar tissue.

What’s the healing time?

The healing time for tattoo removal between treatments is about five-seven days, it will become pink and warm, and a little bit tingly, there will be inflammation. Then a scab will form over a few days, the scab will flake off, and the internal healing process triggered by your immune system will begin.

Is laser tattoo removal painful?

A topical anaesthetic is applied for your comfort before the procedure for about 30 minutes, and then you feel a slight sting or snap of a rubber band on the skin. The numbing cream makes the process more comfortable.

How many tattoo removal treatments do you require for optimal results?

This will depend on the tattoo’s colour, whether it has black ink, yellow ink, or red ink. The size, location and depth of the tattoo also determine the number of sessions required.

How long between sessions?

Each tattoo removal session needs about 4 to 8 weeks to allow the body to clear more of the pigment.

Will laser tattoo removal completely remove my tattoo?

The end results are pretty dramatic; depending on the ink used to apply the tattoo, complete clearing of the tattoo can be achieved, and the expected results will be discussed at your first consultation.

Is tattoo removal safe?

Tattoo removal is completely safe and covered by my insurance company Hamilton Fraser; however, the safety of tattoo removal during pregnancy has not been researched; therefore, it is better to wait until you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding to begin the process. Some certain medical conditions and medications should be discussed in the consultation and carry a caution.

How long does each session take?

Each session usually takes about 10 to 30 minutes, and you continue to see the lightening of your tattoo after each treatment.

There are four different laser wavelengths to treat tattoos. It is safe for all skin types, and treatment settings can be easily adjusted to customise the treatment to your specific needs and provide maximum comfort during the treatment. There is extremely low recovery time and minimal downtown, so contact me to discuss your treatment options further for a complimentary consultation.

Amanda Azzopardi
Advanced Nurse Practitioner

MEET THE AUTHOR

Amanda Azzopardi, an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Aesthetic Medicine Prescriber, specialises in ageing-related changes. With a Masters in Advanced Clinical Practice, she's trained at the renowned Harley Academy in London and the Level 7 accredited Derma Medical Academy. Boasting over 15 years of global experience in acute medical settings and extensive aesthetic insurance, Amanda combines care, skill, and professionalism to ensure your treatments are in trustworthy hands.