Thinking about starting your laser tatto removal journey, but wondering just how painful it is? You’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions we get asked here at Goodbye Tattoos. The short answer? It’s more uncomfortable than painful, and most people say it’s totally manageable.
Let’s break it down…
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Painful? Pain is Personal
Pain is a very subjective experience. Everyone has a different threshold, and what one person finds unbearable, another might barely notice.
If your friends or family have warned you that laser tattoo removal is painful, ask if they’ve actually had the treatment themselves. You might be hearing second-hand information based on assumptions or things they’ve read — not real experience.
What they find painful might be a walk in the park for you. So before you decide it’s too painful, try it for yourself — you might be pleasantly surprised!
Our Take on Pain: It’s Just Uncomfortable
At Goodbye Tattoos, we dont like using the word “painful” when describing laser tattoo removal. Instead, we prefer to say it feels a bit uncomfortable — but completely manageable.
Tattoo Location on the body matters
Tattoo location on the body is important. Some parts of the body can be more sensitive than others. Areas with thinner skin or closer to the bone (like ankles, wrists) might feel a bit more sensitive.
To give you an idea, see here a tattoo pain chart. Although this was originally created to show the pain levels of getting a tattoo, we can apply the same logic to tattoo removal.
This tattoo pain chart image – Courtesy of BARBER DTS – https://www.barberdts.com/uk/
What Does Laser Tattoo Removal Actually Feel Like?
We conducted a study where we asked our very own clients what they thought laser tattoo removal felt like – and here’s what they said:
- “It feels like tiny hot rubber band flicks.”
- “Like splatters of hot oil from a frying pan.”
The laser energy is powerful and hits the pigment at a billionth of a second. However, the treatment is very quick and can be over in a matter of seconds.
When you think about it that way — a few seconds every 6–8 weeks to get rid of something you no longer want — it suddenly doesn’t sound so bad, right?
How We Help Manage the Discomfort
Pain management is a big part of what we do at Goodbye Tattoos. During your consultation, we’ll talk through all your options to make sure you feel as comfortable as possible.
Skin Cooling Machine
Here at Goodbye Tattoos, we use the Zimmer Cyro 6. Known to be one of the most effective cooling machines.
The Zimmer Cyro 6 is a chilled air-cooling device, which provides a continuous flow of chilled air before, during and after the treatment.
The tattooed area is cooled a few minutes prior to the laser treatment and continued throughout the treatment. Most people find this is enough and don’t require any additional numbing agents.
Numbing Cream (Optional)
If you’re particularly sensitive, you’re welcome to apply a numbing cream at home before your appointment.
We recommend:
- Apply a generous amount over the tattooed area.
- Cover it with plastic wrap (Glad Wrap).
- Leave it on for at least an 40-45 minutes before your treatment.
What to Expect After Treatment
Once the actual treatment is over, we continue to cool the area down. We then apply an aftercare cream called Stratamed and cover you with a guaze. This is more for your safety as we want to avoid injury to the area once you leave the clinic.
The treated area may feel slightly sunburnt for a couple of days, but this is very common. Applying a cold pack to the treated area to help cool it down, will do the trick.
What to Avoid
- Hot showers or baths
- Saunas or steam rooms
- Exercise or anything that heats the body
We ask you avoid excessive heat to the area for at least 24-48 hours so the area can heal nicely.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Painful for Everyone?
Not at all. Pain tolerance varies from person to person. Some clients barely feel a thing, while others say it’s uncomfortable. With proper pain management (like cooling and/or numbing cream), most people find it completely doable.
Healing and Fading Timeline
You should be healed within 24-48 hours. For some people it can take a bit longer. But once you are fully healed, you should start seeing some fading. After 6-8 weeks, you will be ready for your next laser tattoo removal treatment.
Final Thoughts
We know the idea of laser tattoo removal can be intimidating, especially when pain is a concern. But you don’t have to go through it alone. At Goodbye Tattoos, we’re here to guide you, support you, and answer every question — so you feel confident at every step.
Still have questions? We’re happy to chat — just reach out!
