Laser tattoo removal FAQ

Your most frequently asked laser tattoo removal questions answered below

HOW DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL WORKS?

Laser tattoo removal works by directing the laser light onto the tattoo. The tattoo ink absorbs the laser light, and the ink particles are shattered into small pieces.

Once the ink is shattered, the elimination process starts.

The body’s white blood cells consume these small ink particles and break them down further, resulting in the removal of the ink through the lymphatic system.

Laser tattoo removal is the safest way to get rid of unwanted tattoos.

It is a very clever and simple process. Our guide will help to prepare to ensure you have most effective treatment.

Laser tattoo removal vector illustration diagram.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

Every individual is different and so is every tattoo. And everyone’s health and immune system is different.

There is no specific science. However, we will consider the many variables before we can estimate the number of treatments you might need:

On average, you’ll need between 6 to 12 treatments but everyone reacts and heals differently. Some people might need more, some people need less.

And certain colours take longer than others. For example, black ink is the easiest to eliminate whereas colours like blues, greens and reds may require more sessions.

Man wiith tattoos on his arm undergoing a laser tattoo removal treatment

WHAT DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL LOOK LIKE?

As soon as the laser light penetrates the tattoo ink, there is reaction called ‘Frosting’ or whitening of the tattoo pigment.

Frosting is only immediate reaction after a laser tattoo removal treatment. And only last for about 10-15 minutes.

Whilst this might look a little alarming, there’s nothing to be concerned about.

To see frosting means the laser energy has already started to penetrate ink and the process of ink elimination has started.  It’s a good sign.

laser tattoo removal frosting

WILL LASER TATTOO REMOVAL LEAVE SCARS?

It is highly unlikely that laser tattoo removal will leave scars.

Scarring can be the result of improper aftercare. And interestingly can also be caused by getting the tattoo in the first place.

Be sure to see a trained technician. And they are using a high quality laser machine.

It is very common to get scabbing and blisters after a treatment. But there is no cause for concern here.

We always ask our clients not to pick or scratch blisters or scabs. As this can lead to scarring and slow down the healing process. It’s best to let the skin heal on its own.

At Goodbye Tattoos, we use a medical scar therapy gel called Stratamed which helps with the healing process. It gives relief from redness, itching, discomfort and pain.

IS LASER TATTOO REMOVAL PAINFUL?

Firstly, everyone’s pain threshold is different. And secondly we like to describe tattoo removal as ‘uncomfortable’ but manageable.

The sensation of the laser has been compared to hot oil splashes experienced when cooking. Or an elastic band flicking against your skin.

Most clients will experience some slight discomfort depending on the location of the tattoo on the body. And of course, their pain threshold.

But great news! There are various pain management options available to you.

At Goodbye Tattoos, we use a skin cooling machine called a Zimmer Cryo 6. Which provides a continuous flow of chilled air before, during and after the treatment. Most people will find this is enough and don’t require any additional numbing agents.

cartoon icons explaining how to speed up the tattoo removal process

HOW CAN I SPEED UP MY LASER TATTOO REMOVAL?

When it comes to laser tattoo removal, it takes two to tango.

Firstly it’s the work of a trained tattoo removal specialist. Using a high performing machine. This part works to break the ink down.

And then it’s your body that works to flush that ink out.

There are a few things you can do to speed up the tattoo removal process. First and foremost a healthy immune system will definitely help with the ink elimination and the skin healing process.

Some people will see quicker results than others. And one of the main reasons is because everyone is different. No two immune systems are the same. Everyone’s health is different.

If you want to speed up the tattoo removal process, be sure to drink plenty of water. Very important to stay hydrated. Eat a healthy balanced diet. Make sure you can fit in some moderate exercise. Get a good nights sleep.

Basically, we want to try and rid the body of any toxins. So try and refrain from smoking and drinking.

man and woman on the beach sunbathing

HOW LONG AFTER LASER TATTOO REMOVAL CAN I GO IN THE SUN?

We would advise waiting at least 4 weeks after your tattoo removal treatment until you go back in the sun.

We need to make sure your skin tone stays as close to your natural skin tone as possible. This way we can make sure to get the most effective treatment.

If the tattooed area is too suntanned, then the laser will have difficulty breaking down the ink pigment. This results in needing more treatments.

Likewise, you also need to be conscious of sun exposure before the treatments.

If you have to go in the sun, make sure to keep the area covered with a Band-Aid or clothing. And remember sunscreen.

Woman with tattoos staring to the right as if in thought

HOW WILL YOU ASSESS MY SKIN FOR TREATMENT?

At Goodbye Tattoos, we will conduct a skin assessment during the initial consultation, which helps us estimate how many treatments you may need for complete removal.

There are 8 factors we need to look at:

⭐Tattoo Colour ⭐Skin Tone ⭐Layering of Tattoos ⭐Tattoo Location ⭐ Health of Individual ⭐Amount of Ink ⭐Age of Tattoo ⭐ Professional or Amateur

Based on this, we can estimate how many treatments you may need. Important to remember every tattoo is different and everyone reacts differently tattoo removal.

I HAVE JUST HAD MY TATTOO REMOVED. CAN I GET A TATTOO IN THE SAME AREA?

Yes you can.

Many people want to say goodbye to an old tattoo. And make room for a new one. Or want to just fade a tattoo enough to get a new one.

We do recommend waiting until the skin has completely healed. At least 6 to 8 weeks. The last thing you want is to cause scarring by rushing. And going in too quick.

CAN YOU DO LASER REMOVAL ON A NEW TATTOO?

We know that sometimes tattoo regret can creep in as soon as you’ve had the tattoo done.

However, we advise waiting at least 6-8 weeks before getting laser tattoo removal. We need to wait until the ink has settled and the tattooed area has completely healed. Otherwise we risk causing scarring.

HOW MUCH DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL COST?

Laser tattoo removal cost is based on the size of the tattoo or tattoos. As part of the free consultation, we will measure the tattoo/s to give us the exact size in cm2. We will then be able to give you the price for tattoo removal per treatment.

Want more information?

WHAT IS THE R20 METHOD?

The R20 method doesn’t require new equipment or any extra training. It’s pretty much the same as the standard method of laser tattoo removal. Rather it’s the way we USE the equipment.

Instead of waiting 6-8 weeks in between each treatment, the laser tattoo removal specialist will perform up to 4 treatments in the same session, with only 20 minutes waiting time in between each treatment.

Whilst this may seem like the quickest way to get rid of a tattoo, there are risks involved. Please read to find out more.

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