How the Laser Tattoo Removal Process Works

How does laser tattoo removal work?

It’s a process. But the results are worth it. 

Successful tattoo removal relies partly on our laser, partly your body. We need both to work in harmony to clear those pesky ink particles.

You don’t need to be a laser expert (that’s our job) but it can be helpful to know a little about the process and how laser tattoo removal works.

Laser pulses break down the larger ink particles into microscopic fragments, which your body then naturally disposes of in the weeks following treatment. Multiple sessions are almost always required to fully remove a tattoo. The exact number of treatments varies depending on several factors, including the size, colour, depth, location, and age of the tattoo, and unfortunately cannot be predicted with complete certainty in advance. Based on experience, the skin therapist can provide an estimate, but not a guarantee

How long does laser tattoo removal take?

We get it. You want your tattoo removed as quickly as possible. With our expert-led approach, your specialist will design a bespoke treatment protocol suited to you and your skin type. Three factors determine how long laser tattoo removal might take: the tattoo itself; your health and lifestyle; and your bespoke treatment plan.

Tattoo style

Balanced lifestyle

Personal treatment plan

Nobody has the exact same tattoo as you. The depth, density, colour, and type of tattoo ink make each tattoo unique, and all influence treatment length. 

The location of your tattoo can also have an effect, with tattoos closer to the heart often removing faster due to better circulation. 

Image showing unwanted tattoos
Image showing unwanted tattoos

Strong immune systems are more efficient at flushing away ink particles. Optimise your results with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Drinking lots of water can help your lymphatic system flow faster. We also recommend being well-rested and eating a balanced diet for the best results.

Unsurprisingly, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption may slow the process.

Healthy living can help laser tattoo removal
Healthy living can help laser tattoo removal

Your tattoo is as unique as you are. That's why the most effective removal results are achieved through personalised treatment plans.

Our expert consultants will assess your tattoo, lifestyle and removal goals, and follow up with a bespoke aftercare protocol to follow between treatments.

Your tattoo removal process is personalised to you and your tattoo
Your tattoo removal process is personalised to you and your tattoo

FAQs

Laser treatments typically do not cause scar tissue.

Our laser is known for its ability to effectively remove tattoos without causing scarring. However, the final outcome depends largely on how the tattoo was originally applied and whether any scar tissue was already present in the skin due to the tattooing process. (caused by the needles).

Most tattoos create only minimal scar tissue during application, which allows the skin to nearly return to its original state once the ink is removed: almost as if the tattoo was never there.

It’s important to understand that getting a tattoo involves repeated needle trauma to the skin, which can cause some degree of scar tissue formation. In most cases, this scar tissue is not visible, but sometimes the skin may become thicker or discoloured after tattooing.

Any scar tissue that is already visible after the tattoo has been applied will remain visible even after the ink is removed with the laser. This scar tissue is a result of the original tattooing procedure, not the laser removal treatment.

Successful tattoo removal is not only about the laser sessions but also depends on how well you follow the recommended before- and after-treatment care. Proper aftercare is essential to minimize the risk of developing new scar tissue, support healing, and achieve the best possible results.

Yes, we are able to completely remove tattoos. There are three factors that determine the efficacy of tattoo removal: the tattoo, the tech, and your lifestyle. We recommend booking a consultation with our experts.

We can remove most tattoos of all sizes, ink colours and designs, as well as permanent makeup and cosmetic tattoos. We’ll create a bespoke treatment plan to achieve the results you’re looking for.

Yes, we can successfully fade tattoos for cover-ups and we do partial removals as well. We usually recommend less sessions for tattoo fade, though this can vary between different tattoo styles, colours, and designs.

A healthy lifestyle can positively influence the tattoo removal process. Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay physically active.

Smoking, being under- or overweight, alcohol consumption, and nutritional deficiencies can negatively impact the number of treatments needed.

Visible results are often not immediate in the first weeks following a laser treatment (with the exception of very fine lines or shaded areas). During treatment, the laser breaks the ink into smaller particles, allowing the body to gradually eliminate them.

Immediately after the session, the ink particles are still located in the same are, they are simply fragmented into smaller pieces. The body typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to clear these particles, after which the next treatment can take place.