Tattoo Laser Removal – FAQs

by Tattoo Removal on April 29, 2010

If you have a tattoo, laser removal might be the best method to use to remove it. It’s one of the most popular tattoo removal techniques. It has evolved where it’s less painful and more effective than ever. And for an unwanted tattoo, laser removal has always been very effective.

Q. I thought tattoos were permanent.
They may be perceived that way but most tattoos succumb to laser removal treatment.

Q. Why would anyone want to have a tattoo removed?
Actually, it’s estimated that about 50% of individuals who have tattoos will regret it. Some of the reasons cited include; life changes, dislike of being permanently marked and it’s simple no longer desired.

Q. How does tattoo laser removal work?
Laser tattoo removal works by heating the inked cells so much that they begin to fragment and break up. After that occurs, the pigment gets absorbed back into the body.

Q. Where does one begin when considering a tattoo laser removal process?
A consultation. They might be free or cost about $50 (that amount gets deducted from the cost of the procedure). During the consultation, the tattoo removal expert will take a health history, examine the tattoo, explain the procedure, discuss the risks and benefits, set the price and answer any questions the patient might have.

Q. How much does laser tattoo removal treatment cost?
Generally, between $100 and $800 per visit. The range is so wide because the cost depends on the complexity of the tattoo.

Q. How long does tattoo laser removal take?
Most professional tattoos take 5 to 10 treatments to completely or close to completely fade. Amateur or homemade tattoos take 1 to 4 treatments. The sessions take place every 6 to 12 weeks.

Q. What causes the time and cost variations?
Several factors influence the laser tattoo removal process. They include:

  • The skin and health of the patient
  • The age of the tattoo
  • The types of lasers employed in the process
  • The ink colors
  • The ink ingredients
  • The amount of ink used
  • The ink depth skin absorption

Q. How do ink colors impact the procedure?
Greatly. For example, black ink removes the best. Warm colors like orange and pink respond well. Purple, yellow and red can be easy or hard to remove. The same with green and blue. White or flesh tone hues may actually turn darker with lasers so they must be tested prior to treatment.

Q. Will it hurt?
It might. The short light pulses emitted by the laser can feel like a rubber band snapping on the skin. However, there are topical and another other anesthetic processes that can be used to minimize any pain.

Q. Will the tattoo laser removal process make the tattoo go away completely?
Usually. But, without standardized inks (there are more than 100 tattoo inks used today), it’s difficult to predict the degree of removal of any tattoo.

Q. What type of post tattoo laser removal care is recommended?
The tattooed area will be dressed with a healing balm and a bandage. Keep the treated site away from the sun as well as clean and dry. Each patient usually receives a customized, take home care kit complete with supplies and instructions.
Q. Will I be scarred by the process?
Probably not. There’s just a 5% or less of a chance of scarring if you follow the post treatment aftercare recommendations.
Tattoo laser removal is a safe, relatively painless way to remove unwanted tattoos. However, do your due diligence when selecting a specialist. A good way to make a choice is to ask to examine tattoo removal before and after photos of previous patients.

Related Blogs

Comments on this entry are closed.

Previous post:

Next post: