LASER TATTOO REMOVAL

Most tattoos can be considerably diminished and many can be completely removed. Some tattoos can be removed more easily than others, depending on the following factors:

• Colour, quality, quantity and depth of pigment: Certain pigments-black, red and dark blue-respond better to the laser than do green, orange, and light blue or pink pigments. These lighter pigments can quire more treatments to achieve your desired results. Professionally applied tattoos use ink intended to be permanent and can require more treatments than amatuer or medical tattoos.
• Age of the tattoo: Older, blurred tattoos that have migrated from their original site can be more difficult to remove.
• Location on the body: Tattoos on thinner-skinned areas-such as ankles or fingers-are more difficult to remove than those placed on thicker-skinned areas, such as the abdomen and shoulders.

Some areas may retain a shadow of the former tattoo, which will fade gradually. During your complimentary consultation, your certified laser technician will assess your tattoo and give you a more precise estimate of the number of treatments you will require.

It can be uncomfortable. People who have undergone laser tattoo-removal treatment compare it to the snap of an elastic band against the skin. However, we all experience pain differently and tolerance is a variable factor.

Essentially, the removal of a tattoo involves creating a controlled medical burn with the laser. There is an immediate whitening of the treated area, which may last anywhere from several minutes up to several hours. Short-term side-effects can include: reddening, mild burning, temporary bruising and/or blistering.

Within 12-72 hours, your skin will likely scab or crust, and this can last for one to two weeks or more. Your skin can be pink or pale after the scab separates. We will discuss possible side-effects, and provide you with pre- and post-treatment care instructions before scheduling your laser tattoo-removal appointment.

Generally speaking, laser tattoo removal can require anywhere from three to twelve treatments. The number of treatments will depend upon: the age, size, colour, and location of the tattoo; and the type and depth of the ink pigment. Ideally, treatments will be scheduled from four to eight weeks apart to allow your body’s lymphatic system to flush out the dissolved pigment particles.