Before and After Laser Tattoo Removal

When you decide that an old tattoo needs to go, you're taking a big step. You've committed to a year's worth of treatments and expenses, decided laser tattoo removal is worth it, and of course, you will want to know what to expect. How do you prepare yourself for the removal process? What are some things you can do to make it go smoothly? What results can you anticipate from laser tattoo removal sessions? Much like when you got the original tattoo, you want the area clear of any obstructions that could interfere with the laser. Shave the area before treatment and avoid applying lotions or perfume to the affected skin as they can hinder the healing process.

How Effective Is Laser Tattoo Removal?

Tattoos were once removed rather barbarically. With a scalpel or a sharp knife, a layer of skin was scraped off. Unsurprisingly, this method was painful and often resulted in scarring and skin problems. Luckily we have some better ways of doing this today. Though there are tattoo removal creams, there's not a lot of evidence that they work. Laser tattoo removal treatments, on the other hand, are an efficient and safe method that can achieve complete removal. Whether or not the tattoo disappears entirely depends on its size, colors, and clients’ skin tones. Even in the worst-case scenario where the treatments haven't been 100% effective, the tattoo fades dramatically leaving little more than a ghost image.

Can I Get a Cover-Up Tattoo After I Fade My Unwanted Tattoo?

One of the most popular methods of fixing bad tattoos is to fade the original and change the design. You can use laser tattoo removal to selectively diminish parts of any ink that you don't like. Then, you can create something new once the skin has healed. You'll need to make sure that your skin fully heals before taking on any new ink though. Consult with our tattoo artists if this is an option you want to pursue. We'll help you come up with a great design to cover over any remaining traces of the old tattoo and replace it with something new and beautiful.

How Long Will It Take My Tattoo to Fade?

You'll notice a difference in the tattoo immediately after beginning treatments. But we advise our customers to continue with the recommended course. We generally see complete removal within 6-8 treatments depending on the size, color, and complexity of the original. Getting your tattoo removed is not an overnight thing. Be prepared to be patient with it and let your body recover before the next treatment. Trying to rush things along won’t do you any favors during the healing process.

Can You Remove a Tattoo in One Session?

As we said above, you aren't going to have your tattoo removed overnight or in one session. While you'll see definite fading of your tattoo, it takes time for your body to remove the pigments from your skin. It takes even longer for your skin to heal enough to be ready for the next treatment or a new tattoo. Solid black tattoos vanish easier than colored ones, and some colors are resistant to the removal process. That isn't to say you won't have complete success if that's what you want. It merely means that you shouldn't expect it to disappear as quickly as you’d like it to. Without patience and adherence to aftercare instructions, mistakes happen and scarring after laser tattoo removal could develop. To guarantee the best possible outcome for your tattoo removal, make sure you follow all of removal specialist’s instructions. If you don't, you risk the possibility of infection, and that would result in an unfavorable outcome. Wear loose clothing, keep the treated area covered, and don't soak it or swim for at least two weeks after you've finished the treatment.