Laser Tattoo Removal 101

Getting your first tattoo is an exciting moment, even receiving permanent makeup may seem like a great idea for that phase of your life – and it was. But sometimes, a phase is just a phase and we may grow out of what we once loved and that’s ok. Don’t think for a second that you can’t restore your skin to its pre-inked beauty – because you can. But before you make an appointment with your nearest laser tattoo removal practitioner, it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting yourself and your skin into. Here’s everything you need to know about laser tattoo removal, so you can begin your journey with ease.

Laser Tattoo Removal Consultation

Begin your laser tattoo removal journey with a consultation.

Your laser tattoo removal consultation is probably the most important appointment of your tattoo removal journey. This is the time for you to show your practitioner what you’d like removed and what you expect from the overall procedure. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need in order for you to feel confident with your decision. Your consultation will also give you a chance to build a relationship with your practitioner and understand their process and techniques. At Fade Aesthetics, we use the latest laser tattoo removal systems provided by Picoway. We require each patient to receive a consultation before their first laser tattoo removal session. This gives us the ability to set parameters, understand your expectations, and answer any questions you may have.

Below are frequently asked questions and their answers regarding the laser tattoo removal procedure. Take a moment to read them before your next consultation!

1. How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

First and foremost, let us explain how the laser tattoo removal process works. It is paramount that you understand what goes into removing your tattoo or permanent makeup. The technology today is much more advanced than it was ten years ago. At Fade Aesthetics, we use the latest, innovative technology provided by Picoway Lasers. The PicoWay technology provides the fastest tattoo elimination process available. Essentially, the lasers in the tattoo removal process apply light and sound to the skin in milliseconds, this disrupts the ink, causing it to break apart and wash away in the lymphatic system.

2. How Much Does Laser Tattoo Removal Cost?

One of the most common questions in the tattoo removal industry is: How Much Does Laser Tattoo Removal Cost? This can be hard to answer without knowing the size or location of the tattoo. The cost of laser tattoo removal is determined by several factors: size, location, and colour. Typically, laser tattoo removal for a small tattoo can cost anywhere from $80-$275 for one session. For larger tattoos or tattoos requiring more than three sessions, the price will more than likely be higher. You can expect the laser tattoo removal procedure to be double of what your tattoo had cost to receive. This is because of the intricate and precise technology needed in order to restore your skin to pre-inked perfection. If you have a budget in mind, don’t let that stop you from calling us, we may have specials, deals and discounts pertaining to your laser tattoo removal needs.

3. How Long Does It Take To Remove a Tattoo?

Just like the cost, it will take twice as long to remove a tattoo versus the time it takes to get it. No matter the size of the tattoo, the laser tattoo removal process will occur in multiple sessions. Between each session is a six week rest period, so your body and immune system can bounce back. If you have a darker complexion, a minimum of 8 weeks is recommended. Even though we would like to give all our patients an exact timeframe of their laser tattoo removal journey, it’s almost impossible to determine the complexity of a tattoo and its removal. Some patients may require 2-3 sessions, others may require 5-6.

4. Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Most people believe that Laser Tattoo Removal is an excruciating experience, to be frank, this can be true, but it’s all dependent on the client. Everyone’s pain level is different and the ability to tolerate the picoway lasers may vary. Remember, the location in which your tattoo is placed can determine the pain level as well – an area with more nerve endings will hurt more than an area with less. Size of your tattoo will play a role in pain level as well, you can imagine a tiny tattoo being removed will hurt much less than a sleeve tattoo removal. We assure you that here at Fade Aesthetics, we use industry- leading numbing cream to aid with any discomfort. Clients have likened the feeling to the snapping of rubber bands on the skin or grease popping on the skin.

5. Does Laser Tattoo Removal Leave A Scar?

Another concern regarding laser tattoo removal is if it would leave any scars behind. Restoring your skin to its original state isn’t an easy task and sometimes the final results don’t necessarily meet clients expectations. Nevertheless, laser tattoo removal does not leave behind any scarring. Most scars that are seen after laser tattoo removal, are scars that were there prior to getting the tattoo that’s being removed. And if the client follows the proper aftercare plan, it is unlikely that any scarring will occur. Make sure to let your laser technician know about any pre-existing scars that may be hidden under your tattoos. Again, this will aid in maintaining expectations.

6. Are There Any Side Effects From Laser Tattoo Removal?

Side effects are common for any laser skin treatment, so you can expect some side effects from your laser tattoo removal sessions. The severity of the side effects can range from person to person. The skin is one of the largest organs and most sensitive – so everyone is different. With that being said, here are some common side effects of laser tattoo removal.
Laser Tattoo Removal Common Side Effects:

Redness
Swelling
Blistering
Tenderness
Hyperpigmentation
Hypopigmentation
Bruising

All of the side effects are temporary, and most can be avoided if the proper protocols and aftercare plan are implemented. If you received laser tattoo removal treatments and are experiencing redness, swelling or tenderness, give it 2-3 days for the symptoms to subside. Blistering of the skin usually will appear within 24 hours after treatment; scabs and bruising can take up to 2 weeks to heal

7. Can you help me in revising my tattoo?

If you have a tattoo or permanent makeup mistake that needs to be corrected, we can definitely help you achieve your goals in correcting that mistake. It’s common for clients to come in for partial laser tattoo removal for tattoo revision. During your consultation, make sure to tell your laser tattoo removal practitioner about the tattoo you’d like revised, and the areas of your tattoo you want to keep and get rid of. We have a network of tattoo artists that we’re affiliated with for purposes of correcting tattoo mistakes. We will connect you with the perfect tattoo artist if you don’t already have one

Be Informed With Your Laser Tattoo Removal Decision.

The purpose of this article is to inform all current and prospective clients about their upcoming laser tattoo removal journey. An informed patient is a happy patient, and at Fade Aesthetics, we encourage all of our clients to do their own research on tattoo removal, so they can be as comfortable with their decision as possible. We want your expectations to be realistic, so staying informed about the entire process is imperative. To schedule an appointment for a FREE consultation, click here.