Answers to your tattoo removal questions

What are laser tattoo removal treatments like?

Tattoo removal is a medical procedure that should only be performed by trained, licensed professionals. First, the tattoo is cleansed and photographed. The laser settings are customized for your specific tattoo for maximum effectiveness (pulse strength and size of the beam). The laser hand piece glides over the surface of the tattoo as it breaks apart the underlying pigment in your tattoo.

The size and color of the tattoo determine the length of treatment time. A tattoo the size of a quarter takes approximately 1-2 minutes to treat with a new laser (this could take significantly longer using sub-optimal laser technology). All patients are provided a topical anesthetic cream that can minimize the stinging effect of the laser during treatment. Many patients tolerate the removal procedure without topical anesthetic and report the treatment as feeling similar to numerous rubber band snaps. The area is then covered with ointment and a protective dressing.

What results can I expect?

Results vary from patient to patient. After each session the tattoo becomes lighter. Various types of ink are used in tattooing, so the results and the number of treatments vary. Multiple treatments will be required and are scheduled 4 to 8 weeks apart. The average tattoo requires at least 10-12 treatments for total removal. Clinics that claim to remove an entire tattoo in 4-5 treatments are not being truthful about expectations.

Is the tattoo removal process painful?

State-of-the art lasers emit light in very short flashes of light called pulses. The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light is similar to the snap of a thin rubber band on the skin. You may experience mild discomfort during a treatment session but the large majority of patients do not require topical anesthesia. Our affiliates use the highest quality, safest and fastest lasers on the market today. The sensation is unique to each individual; some describe a slight warming of the skin while others notice a stinging sensation. The area can be numbed to ensure patient comfort during treatment.

How many laser tattoo removal treatments will I need?

Treatment length depends on a number of factors including: size and color, age of the tattoo, location and whether it was done by a professional or an amateur. In general, you may need anywhere from 8 to 15 treatments spaced about six weeks apart.

Will the tattoo completely disappear?

In many cases, yes!  Again, it depends on the color and quality of the ink but a number of patients will see a greater than 95% fading of the tattoo.  Older tattoos and those of India ink, black, blue and red colors usually fade the most. However, it is very important to know that over 100 tattoo inks are in use worldwide today, none of which are regulated by the FDA. Not knowing which tattoo ink, how deep, or how much was used, makes it impossible to predict the degree of removal on any given tattoo.  Our affiliate's before and after pictures will give you an excellent idea of removal results.

What happens during my free no-obligation consultation?

Your tattoo(s) will be evaluated by a trained provider who will determine an estimated number of treatments necessary. They will review the medical risks and benefits of laser removal, explaining the procedure and protocol. Once all of your questions are answered, the provider will work collaboratively to structure a removal package that works for you. You are under no obligation to move forward with treatment if you’re not ready.

What type of post-treatment care is necessary after laser?

An antibacterial ointment and a dressing are usually applied to the area. The treated area should be kept clean with continued application of the ointment given to you after treatment. A shower can be taken the next day, although the treated area should not be scrubbed.

What are the side effects of Laser Tattoo removal?

The treated area will turn red immediately after the procedure. There can also be mild swelling or tenderness, crusting, and itching. Your provider will discuss your treatment program with you at the time of your consultation and be happy to tell you more about what you can expect from laser tattoo removal. You will also receive a post-care instruction sheet after each treatment.

What other tattoo removal options are available?

There are other methods of tattoo removal, but none have the proven overall effectiveness of laser. Other treatments include Dermabrasion (sanding the skin), Scarification (removing the tattoo with an acid solution) and Surgery (excising the entire tattoo with the skin). Do-it-yourself tattoo removal creams have not been proven to be effective and testimonials on websites selling these creams are dubious at best.

How should I choose a Tattoo Removal provider?

There are several key questions to ask your provider when considering tattoo removal:

1. Is the clinic overseen by a Board Certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon?
2. Does the clinic have experience removing a wide range of tattoos?
3. Do they offer a guarantee to ensure my satisfaction with the outcome?
4. Do they provide flexible financing alternatives to meet my lifestyle?
5. Do they actually listen to me and understand what my expectations for removal are?
6. Do they have specialized equipment that can remove tattoos of all shapes, sizes and colors?

What is the cost for laser tattoo removal treatment?

Treatment of small tattoos can be very affordable. At your complimentary consultation a provider will review a number of factors to determine price: size of the tattoo, colors used, touch-ups done to the tattoo, and your skin type to name a few. Based on those factors, they’ll give you an estimated number of treatments and a price. Small black tattoos are typically the most affordable. Our affiliates have a variety of different payment plans and promotions available. 

What are my payment options?

Some affiliates may offer different payment options than others. All affiliate providers will put together the most cost effective treatment program for your budget.