How many treatments will be needed to remove my tattoo?

It is difficult to determine exactly how many treatments will be needed to obtain your desired result. It could take as little as 3 treatments or as many as 10 treatments depending on the size, age, type of tattoo (professional or amateur), color of your tattoo, and how your skin responds to the treatment. Re-evaluating your tattoo after every treatment will help determine if more sessions will be needed.

What Can I Expect During the Laser Tattoo Removal?

We believe that you should be as comfortable as possible for this laser treatment. Before the procedure, you will be given the option of receiving a topical anesthetic that can be applied to the tattoo for approximately 30 minutes. During the procedure, metal eye shields will be placed for your protection. Many patients describe the laser light like a rubberband snap against the skin or like hot grease splatter. Immediately following treatment, an ice pack is applied to soothe the treated area. A topical antibiotic cream or ointment will be applied with a bandage or patch to protect the site. It should also be covered with a sun block when out in the sun.

What will my skin look like after each treatment?

Your skin will most likely appear red and feel like a mild sunburn. After a couple of hours, the redness goes away. Possible reactions include bruising, and blistering which take about a week to heal. After each treatment you will be given detailed instructions on how to care for your treated area.

How far apart are the treatments?

It will approximately take 4-6 weeks before your next treatment can occur. Your body will require time to break down the tattoo ink after each laser treatment.

What Are The Possible Side Effects?

There are minimal side effects to tattoo laser removal. These risks include infection, permanent scarring, hypopigmentation ( where treated skin is paler than surrounding skin), hyperpigmentation (where the treated skin is darker than the surrounding skin).

Cosmetic tattoos like lip liner, eyeliner and eyebrows may darken following treatment with tattoo removal lasers. Further treatment of the darkened tattoos usually results in fading.

Is Laser Tattoo Removal Safe?

Newer laser systems have become much more effective with very little risk of scarring.

This information is designed to provide general information only and is not to be used as medical advice. For more details pertaining to your tattoo and the use of lasers, please arrange a consultation with Derm Refresh Skin & Laser Center to discuss your specific needs.