Everything you need to know about Laser Tattoo Removal.
What is Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser Tattoo Removal is a safe and simple, non-invasive procedure that uses high-intensity laser beams to break down tattoo ink particles in the skin. Over time, the body's immune system naturally eliminates these ink particles, gradually fading the tattoo.
How does it work you ask?
Laser Energy Targeting: The laser emits pulses of light that are absorbed by the tattoo ink.
Ink Fragmentation: The intense heat from the laser breaks the ink into tiny particles.
Body’s Natural Elimination: The immune system removes these particles through the lymphatic system.
Gradual Fading: Multiple sessions are required to fully break down the ink, leading to a gradual fading of the tattoo.
Different laser wavelengths target different ink colours, with black ink being the easiest to remove and lighter colours (such as yellow, green, and blues) being more challenging.
If I do not think my machine will remove the colours desired, I will refer you to a different clinic registered with the Healthcare Inspectorate Wales to proceed with treatment where a more suitable laser machine will be used.
Are there any side effects or risks?
- Eye Damage: There is a risk of eye damage from lasers, which will be minimised by the wearing of protective goggles during laser use.
- Pain & Discomfort: The treatment can be uncomfortable, often compared to the feeling of a rubber band snapping against the skin or hot oil spitting in a pan whilst cooking an egg. Numbing creams can help.
- Redness & Swelling: The treated area may become red, swollen, or tender for a few days.
- Blistering & Scabbing: Some people develop temporary blisters or scabs, which should not
- be picked to avoid scarring.
- Temporary Skin Lightening or Darkening: The skin may become lighter (hypopigmentation)
- or darker (hyperpigmentation), especially on darker skin tones.
- Multiple Sessions Required: Complete removal typically requires 6-10 sessions, depending
- on factors like tattoo size, ink depth, colour and time between sessions. I personally
- recommend at least 3 months between sessions for the best healing and fading outcomes.
- Not 100% Guaranteed: Some ink colours and tattoo types may not fade completely, though
- significant fading is common.
I use the TITAN 3 Laser Machine here at the salon.
This is the fastest, most powerful laser in its class and provides complete tattoo removal with very little to no scarring.
What are the benefits?
- Most Effective Removal Method: Laser removal is the best option for fading or completely removing tattoos.
- Minimal Risk of Scarring: When performed by a professional, laser treatments have a low risk of scarring.
- Works on Most Tattoo Colours: Advanced laser technology can target a wide range of ink colours.
- Customizable: Can be used for full removal or just lightening a tattoo for a cover-up design.
- Non-Invasive: No cutting or surgery is required, reducing the risk of infection.
Can I use numbing cream?
Absolutely! Although I use skin cooling pre and post treatment to help take the edge off, numbing cream works very well with tattoo removal as it's such a quick process! I also find the vasoconstriction anecdotcally keeps the skin cooler for longer which causes less blistering.
I do not supply topical numbing cream to my clients before treatment but can advise you that you can purchase Emla Cream or Ametop Gel from your local pharmacy.
Apply the numbing cream to the treatment area 1/1.5 hours before treatment by stippling it onto the area – do not rub it in.
You will then need to wrap the treatment area in cling film as tightly as possible but not so that you're uncomfortable and I will remove the cream before your treatment commences.
Please ensure you patch test your numbing cream 48 hours before using it to ensure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients.
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