Many people have tattoos on their bodies. While some have minimalist designs inked on their skin, others have explicit ones. However, not all of them are happy with their tattoos.
But while most of us see these tattoos as a symbol that has a deeper meaning, for some tattoo bearers, they are a cause of shame and regret.
Luckily, permanent tattoos are now removable or reversible. The solution? Laser tattoo removal. What is this solution, and how does it work? And how long before you can see the results? We’ll talk about this and more in this article.
What Is Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser tattoo removal is a procedure that uses a laser which produces a high-intensity light beam. The laser aims at the tattoo pigment. Which then shatters into tiny little pieces. The lymphatic system (the body’s natural cleansing system) then works to break that ink down and eliminate it.
We will achieve neat results. Minus the scarring. Because the laser targets the tattoo pigment and not the surrounding skin. As a matter of fact, some patients only experience redness after the treatment.
Black inks and darker colour inks are easier to remove. Followed by reds and warmer tones. Blues and greens can be more challenging depending on how dark or bright they are. And if you have a skin condition like eczema, the tattoo removal process becomes more complicated. Also, newer tattoos are more difficult to remove because the ink so fresh.
How Does It Work?
The process varies depending on the professional administering the procedure. But generally, it starts with the laser technician performing skin tests to see if your skin reacts to the laser beam. You may likely experience pain, so the technician must apply topical anaesthesia before using the laser. After the procedure, your skin may experience redness or swelling. Other times, it will bleed or blister.
To ensure the patient’s comfort during the session, the technician will use a cooling system before, during, and after the treatment. This system is used alongside the topical cream to reduce discomfort. And keep the skin cool throughout the session.
The laser beam may feel like a snapping rubber band, but trust that it doesn’t harm the skin. It only passes through it without damaging any soft tissues. Don’t worry because the sessions are usually short, and you can conveniently insert them into your schedule.
How long the treatment lasts varies by the size and colour of the tattoos, as well as the skin tone of the patient. Some laser tattoo removal sessions may only take a few minutes; others take more than an hour.
Check this article about how does laser tattoo removal work for more information.
When Will You See the Results?
As mentioned, the length of the treatment varies by certain factors. An appointments schedule is planned in advance if several sessions are required. This is to give the skin ample time to heal and recover.
Other factors can affect the success rate of the procedure, too. For instance, pure black inks are easier to remove than light ones. Furthermore, professionally done tattoos are easier to remove than those inked at home. And lastly, older ones are easier to remove.
On average, it takes six to eight sessions to completely remove a tattoo via laser treatment. However everyone reacts to laser tattoo removal differently and sees different results. Let’s talk more about this in the next section.
Is One Session Enough?
No, the tattoos will not disappear immediately. It takes months or years for the tattoo to vanish. However, with every session, you will notice that the tattoo fades until it disappears completely.
Exactly How Many Laser Tattoo Removal Sessions Are Needed?
To remove the tattoo entirely, it will require several laser tattoo removal sessions. The exact number of sessions depends on these factors:
- Skin colour
- Amount of ink
- Ink depth
- Tattoo’s location on the body
- Tattoo colours
- Tattoo’s age
- Tattoo size
- Professional or Amateur tattoo
Since the skin needs to heal before the next treatment, you need around six to eight weeks between every session. There are ways to speed up the tattoo removal process. The procedure will be more efficient if you drink lots of water. And exercise regularly before and after the treatment. This helps your body process the tattoo’s ink as quickly as possible.
Wrapping Up
The laser tattoo removal process is a delicate and complicated procedure. If not done by a certified technician, expect unsatisfactory results. So, if you need to book a laser tattoo removal session, ensure you find a certified and trustworthy technician qualified to perform the procedure.
Research ahead if needed, or speak to people who have undergone the same procedure to know what to expect. You can then schedule an appointment with the professional to assess your tattoo and provide advice on the best course of action.
About Brynn Clark
Brynn specializes in social media production and management at Laser Remedy Skin Solutions as well as internal marketing to ensure our clients are receiving the best of the best! She has always had a passion for skin care and is passionate about creating the best experience both virtually and physically for our clients.
