Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal uses very short, high-energy pulses of light to break tattoo ink into smaller particles, which the body's immune system then gradually clears. It takes a course of sessions spaced weeks apart, and the tattoo fades progressively rather than disappearing at once.

How well a tattoo clears depends on the ink colours, the depth and age of the tattoo, your skin type and where it is on the body. Many tattoos can be removed or faded substantially, but complete clearance is not always possible.

How does laser tattoo removal work?

• The laser targets tattoo pigment in the skin
• The pulses break the ink into smaller fragments
• The immune system clears the fragments over the following weeks
• Several sessions are needed, with time for the skin to heal between them

What results can you expect?

• Black and dark blue inks usually respond well; colours such as green, light blue and yellow can be harder to clear
• Professional tattoos, with denser ink, usually need more sessions than amateur ones
• Older or faded tattoos often clear more quickly
• Fading can be enough to allow a cover-up tattoo

Is laser tattoo removal painful?

It is uncomfortable — often compared to the snap of a rubber band — but cooling and a numbing cream reduce the discomfort. Sessions are short, and most people return to normal activity straight away.

What are the side effects of laser tattoo removal?

Redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, blistering and scabbing are common after a session and settle over the following days to weeks. The skin can become temporarily lighter or darker, which is more likely on darker skin. Scarring and changes in skin texture are uncommon but possible.

Which tattoos can be treated?

• Black and coloured tattoos – the response varies with the colour
• Professional and amateur tattoos
• Cosmetic tattoos and microblading – after a test spot, because some cosmetic pigments (white, flesh-toned and some reds) can darken with laser
• Old or faded tattoos, or fading before a cover-up