Laser Removal Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the ink stay in the skin when you have a tattoo?
When you have a tattoo the particles of ink are too large for the
body to destroy, so instead it encapsulates the particles of ink
with a network of collagen fibres as the skin heals, and there the
tattoo remains.
How does the YAG laser work to remove it?
The laser emits a pulse of light that is preferentially absorbed
into certain colours of ink. The light enters the skin at a speed
that is too fast to heat the tissues (billionths of a second),
instead, it produces a ‘shock wave’ effect and breaks up the ink
particles into smaller pieces, the body then recognises these
particles as something that shouldn’t be there and attacks it. The
particles are then removed naturally via the body’s own elimination
system.
Can you treat all colours?
No. Light is measured in nanometres and there are two wavelengths
of light that are emitted from this laser -one is invisible
infrared light (1064nm) and the other is visible green light
(532nm). The infrared wavelength is preferably absorbed into black
and dark blue inks, whereas the green light is absorbed by red ink.
It is possible to treat some other colours although white, yellow
and bright colours are difficult. This is not usually a problem
however, as lighter colours cover very easily. If you wish to
cover- up an existing tattoo then the darker colours will be faded
or removed, allowing you greater choice of size and colour of the
cover-up design you choose.
Why is it difficult to treat colours other than red and black?
The light will only see the colour ink it is attracted to as
different wavelengths absorb into different things. It is not
possible to produce a laser that can see all colours as some
wavelengths are too shallow when absorbed to affect the ink, others
can absorb into other matter and damage the skin in the process.
Another reason is that all ink pigments contain certain levels of
heavy metals. Some pigments may have a higher concentration of some
of these than others, and these heavy metals can react with the
laser light and carbonise in the skin, turning the ink black. It is
very difficult to remove the ink when this has happened so, if you
have other colours you would like treating, the laser operator will
perform a test patch for you to see if it is possible before
proceeding.
How far apart are the treatments?
Your body needs time to break down the tattoo ink pigments after
each laser treatment. This is a slow process; therefore you will
typically schedule each treatment a minimum of 4-6 weeks
apart. This can also depend on you own healing ability,
taking into account your physique, age, skin type and body immunity
etc.
How many treatments will it take to remove my tattoo?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of this procedure, it is
impossible to predict exactly how many treatments it will take for
complete results. It could take as little as 3 treatments for an
amateur tattoo or as many as 12 treatments for a professionally
applied tattoo. How quickly your ink fades will depend on several
factors, such as the colours of your tattoo, the type of ink used
and how your body responds to the treatment.
What will my skin look like after each treatment?
Your skin will most likely be red and feel like it has mild
sunburn. This typically goes away after a couple of hours. There
may also be some bruising. At times and with certain inks, there
may be mild blistering that usually heals in about a week. After
each treatment you will be given detailed instructions on how to
care for your treated area.
Does the age of my tattoo matter?
Older tattoos are usually easier to treat; new tattoos contain more
pigment (ink) and often multiple colours. Amateur tattoos are
easier to remove as usually they are not as deep as professional
tattoos and the ink is more sparsely applied. The deeper the
pigment the more difficult the tattoo is to
remove.
Does tattoo removal leave scars?
The type of laser used leaves virtually no scars, however, in rare
cases, those with scarring disorders, such as keloids, have an
increased risk of forming a scar.
Who can have Laser Tattoo Removal?
Due to some medical conditions not everyone can have Laser Removal;
we advise anyone wishing to undergo Laser Removal Treatment to
consult with their GP. Many prescription drugs and herbal
remedies can cause increased Photosensitivity, meaning that the
skin becomes more sensitive to light.
How soon after removal can I have a new tattoo applied?
We recommend leaving at least 8 weeks from your last treatment
before having a new tattoo. In the case of cover ups it is
not always necessary to have your old tattoo completely removed;
please speak to our tattooist if you require further
information.
Will the laser tattoo removal hurt?
Patients have reported that laser tattoo removal feels like a
rubber band snapping quickly on your skin.
How
much will laser tattoo removal cost?
Laser tattoo costs starts at £30 Per Session. Initial consultations
are free. When you come for your consultation, we will measure your
tattoo, carry out a skin assessment, and let you know how much each
treatment will cost. A further consultation will be carried
out at the start of each treatment session to determine progress
made.
What happens before treatment?
At the beginning of the treatment we hold a full consultation and a
patch test is carried out before any treatment takes place.
We also require your medical history this may include GP
information, and will also ask you about your skin type.
What happens if I miss a treatment or decide not to complete the treatment?
Whilst we hope that once you have committed to having your tattoo
removed you will continue until you are satisfied; however each
session is paid for on the day.
Protective equipment
During the treatment you will be required to wear eye protection
throughout the duration of the procedure. We also
respectfully ask that jewellery and watches are removed, wedding
bands maybe covered by tape/plaster, as reflective items are not
permitted whilst the laser is operating. We would prefer you
to wear pale/white clothing when you come for your
treatment.