TATTOO FAQs

How Is A Tattoo Removed By Laser?

Q-switched lasers emit light at specific wavelengths in extremely short nanosecond pulses. This energy is selectively absorbed by the tattoo pigment visible in the skin. The rapid delivery of energy causes the pigment particles to shatter into much smaller fragments, which are then gradually removed by the body’s natural processes, primarily through the lymphatic system.

When combined with a fractionated laser, the treatment becomes more effective. The fractionated laser is applied first to create microscopic zones of controlled injury within the skin. These zones help disrupt the pigment and improve the skin’s receptiveness to the Q-switched laser. As a result, the subsequent laser treatment can target the ink more efficiently, enhancing overall pigment breakdown and accelerating tattoo fading.

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Yes—laser tattoo removal can hurt, but how much varies from person to person.

Most people describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin, or hot pinpricks. Because devices like a Q-switched laser deliver energy in very short, intense pulses, the feeling is sharp but quick rather than constant.

A few factors affect how painful it feels:

• Location of the tattoo: Areas with thinner skin or closer to bone (like ankles, ribs, or wrists) tend to hurt more.
• Tattoo size and density: Larger or more heavily inked tattoos take longer to treat.
• Your pain tolerance: This varies a lot between individuals.
• Laser settings and technology used: When two modalities are used within the one treatment, clients can feel slightly more discomfort. 

To minimise discomfort clients usually apply topical anaesthetic cream to the area 30 minutes prior to their appointment. Then during the treatment a cooling device that delivers refridgerated cold air onto the skin is used to further minimise the discomfort. 

What Will The Area Look Like Post-Treatment?

Right after a laser tattoo removal session, your skin will go through some very normal, temporary changes.

Immediately after treatment:

• The area often turns white or “frosted”—this is caused by tiny gas bubbles forming in the skin and usually fades within minutes.
• You’ll likely see redness and slight swelling, similar to a mild burn.
• When incorporating fractional laser the area can also experience pinpoint bleeding but will subside quickly.

Over the next few days:

• Blistering can occur in some cases—this is a normal response and part of the healing process.
• Scabbing or crusting can be seen as the skin begins to repair itself.
• The area will dry out and flake or peel.
• The tattoo may start to look lighter or slightly faded, though full results take multiple sessions.

Following each treatment, specific home-care requirements are prescribed to minimise the duration of post-treatment down time.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all number—most tattoos take around 6 to 12 treatments, but it can be fewer or significantly more depending on several factors.

Here’s what influences the number of sessions:

• Tattoo colour: Black ink is the easiest to remove, while colours like green, blue, and yellow are more stubborn.
• Ink depth and density: Professional tattoos usually go deeper and use more ink than amateur ones, so they take longer.
• Tattoo age: Older tattoos often fade faster because the body has already started breaking down the pigment.
• Location on the body: Areas with better blood flow (like the upper body) tend to clear ink more quickly than extremities like hands or feet.
• Your immune system: Since your body clears the fragmented ink via the lymphatic system, overall health plays a role.
• Technology used: Advanced approaches (like combining fractionated lasers with Q-switched lasers) can sometimes improve efficiency.

Treatments are typically spaced 6–8 weeks apart to allow your skin to heal and your body to remove the ink particles.

Prior to commencing treatment a consultation with our dermal clinician is required to ensure there is nothing contraindicating you from having the treatment. Cost per treatment will also be determined at this consultation.