Tattoo removal
Condition Overview
A tattoo is a popular choice that is often made when we’re young, or to symbolise something significant to us at a given time. But as we age, tattoos that were once a good idea can become something we’d now prefer not to live with. Laser tattoo removal is a very common procedure. However, not all tattoo removal lasers or clinics offer the same treatment options, and care should be taken when selecting a clinic.
How do tattoo removal lasers work?
Most tattoos can be largely removed using pigment lasers. These are lasers that target the pigment in the tattoo ink. The laser beam hits the pigment molecules and breaks the molecules apart. The particles of ink are then identified by the body as a foreign substance and removed through normal immune system function.
The choice of laser depends on the tattoo being removed. The Picosecond laser by Picosure is a commonly used tattoo removal laser, and is a good all-rounder, effective at treating most tattoos.
However, other lasers have been used for tattoo removal for some time and can be very effective for specific ink colours. Blue, black and red inks can be best treated with the Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser, and greens and aquas can be best treated with the Alexandrite laser.
The colour of your skin can also play a role in determining which laser is best for removing your tattoo.
How long will it take my tattoo to disappear?
It is our experience that predicting how many laser treatments it will take to remove a tattoo is not possible. Different colours fade at different rates, and different inks fade differently – tattoo ink is not regulated, and therefore the composition and density of the ink varies greatly.
Some patients experience almost immediate fading, while others may have to wait through a series of treatments.
We therefore suggest that, if removal is desirable for a particular event (such as a wedding), treatments be started as soon as possible.
How much does tattoo removal cost?
Because it is impossible to predict the number of sessions required to remove a tattoo (see the info above under “How long will it take my tattoo to disappear?” we cannot give an exact cost. Also, the size of the tattoo will affect the cost of each laser treatment session. Patient skin colour may also affect the power level that can be safely used, and lower power means more sessions are required.
We do offer a free consultation, where one of our specialist nurses can review your tattoo and skin type, and give you a per-session cost, and a guide to how many sessions may be required.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Individuals respond differently to the sensation of laser treatment. Depending on the size of the area being treated, and the previous experience of the patient with laser treatment, options for pain management include oral pain killers, skin numbing cream, ice packs and cold blown air and even local anaesthetic for very large areas. Our goal is to ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible.
Can you remove cosmetic tattoos?
Cosmetic tattoos, such as eyebrows, eyeliner, lip liner and other facial enhancements can be effectively removed with lasers, like other tattoos. This is a common request at our clinic, as cosmetic “looks” come in and out of style.
Corrective Treatments
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Love the skin you’re in
At Neutral Bay Laser & Dermatology Clinic, we’re committed to providing the most effective treatments for your skin, with the utmost safety, for the whole family. That’s why the first step of every treatment is a review by our dermatologist, Dr Terence Poon. Make your appointment today to love the skin you’re in.
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