How Laser Tattoo Removal Works

Do you have unwanted tattoos or regrettable ink from your youth? Do you want to cover up an existing tattoo, but the old ink is too dense? Laser treatments are the permanent solution to remove tattoos and improve your skin tone and appearance.

IPL (intense pulsed light) laser therapy utilizes a bright light concentrated in certain wavelengths to target specific areas of the skin. Utilizing the most advanced laser technology, high intensity light beams pass through the upper layers of the skin to break up pigment colors for permanent removal of tattoo ink. The combination of targeted laser treatments and your body’s own healing process works to effectively remove tattoos and completely transform your skin.

What to expect
Non-surgical and non-invasive, laser tattoo removal is virtually painless with minimal downtime. The process begins with an initial analysis of your skin tone and tattoo density. A skin patch test can help determine any sensitivity before beginning treatment.

During your laser tattoo removal, you’ll be given a pair of protective eye shields. Our specialists use a laser to pass pulses of intense light through your skin, breaking up the ink particles so that it’s easier for your body to flush them through the lymphatic system. The laser pulses as it works, with a cooling effect on the skin. Each session takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the tattoo. Following treatment, an ice pack can help soothe the treated area and minimize any discomfort.

After a tattoo removal treatment, the area is completely bandaged and covered. For the first 48 hours, we recommend avoiding all heat treatments (saunas and jacuzzis) or going swimming in the pool or ocean (water slows the healing process, and pool chemicals may cause a skin reaction). We also recommend avoiding extended UV exposure for one week. To help speed your skin healing and recovery, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and don’t smoke—a healthy lifestyle can help your tattoo fade more quickly.

How long does laser tattoo removal take?
Depending on the size of your tattoo, expect several treatments for your tattoo removal. Your skin tone, tattoo location and ink color, layering and density of tattoo ink, and the composition and amount of ink can all impact the tattoo removal process.

For most people, IPL treatments involve 6 to 8 sessions, spaced about 6 weeks apart. After each session, your tattoo will become progressively lighter until it fades away completely, without any harm to your skin.

Interested in tattoo removal? Schedule your complimentary consultation with our specialists today to see if laser treatments are right for you.