There are several lasers on the market today which have been proven effective for tattoo removal like our PicoSure and Nd: YAG. During the procedure, the laser targets the ink within the tattoo and breaks up the pigment which is then broken down and absorbed by the body. With each treatment session, your tattoo will continue to fade. The efficiency of your laser tattoo removal procedure is dependent on a few factors.
Even though laser tattoo removal procedure works effectively on all skin types, darker skin will require more sessions for optimal results. This is due to the higher levels of melanin in darker skin tones. If you have a lighter skin tone, you will receive faster results.
The location of the tattoo determines how many treatments it will take for it to fade. Tattoos being treated on your extremities usually require more treatments than other areas on the body, however these areas are the most commonly treated.
The colors used in your tattoo may also affect how many treatments are needed to remove the ink. Depending on the laser that is being used, certain inks can be more difficult to remove. Our PicoSure laser is able to remove every color except for red and our Yag laser does a great job on removing red, orange, and brown ink.
Some patients choose to fade certain areas of their tattoos in order to reduce the darkness of the ink or to receive a cover up over the tattoo. Once the darkness of your previous tattoo is reduced, a tattoo artist can apply new ink in the area.
Patients may experience some discomfort from the laser during treatment. Discomfort can be reduced by using a topical numbing cream and should be applied 1.5-2 hours prior to treatment. Patients can purchase numbing cream from our office with a prescription from one of our providers. During treatment, your tattoo will take on a frosty appearance. This is temporary and will fade within a few minutes. With each treatment, you will notice that your tattoo continues to fade. Multiple sessions are generally needed in order to completely remove a tattoo.
After treatment, an ice pack will be applied to help soothe the area. Common side effects from laser tattoo removal are burning, blistering, swelling, and redness. These should subside within a week. Applying an ice pack to the treated area during the first 24 hours will help reduce these side effects. Results from laser tattoo removal are permanent.
To learn more about laser tattoo removal, schedule a complimentary consultation with Joanie Poth, RN at our University Village location. Now through April 30th, 2019 receive 10% off a single treatment, 15% off a package of 3 treatments, 20% off a package of 6 treatments, or 25% off a package of 9 treatments!