medical
Laser Tattoo Removal FAQ’s

Any client who is pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breast-feeding is NOT eligible for treatment with or without a doctors note.

How does laser tattoo removal actually work?
--laser tattoo removal uses the heat and light from the laser to break up the pigment underneath the skin, allowing your body to absorb it and break it down naturally.
 
Does it hurt?
--most people do find it slightly painful; most would say a little bit worse than the tattoo itself. We do provide prescription strength lidocaine (numbing) cream that we apply to the area 20 minutes pre treatment. We also have a Zimmer skin cooling device available for use during treatment to cool the skin.
 
How many sessions will I need?
--there are a lot of factors that play a part here, for example; how old is the tattoo, was it done professionally or by an amateur, what colors are in the tattoo, etc. inks older than 20 years are typically easier to remove due to lower quality ink. Black, blue, and red inks are the easiest colors to get rid of, brighter colors like greens, teals, pinks, certain variations of purples, etc. are harder to get rid of and may require more treatments. With all that being said, it can take anywhere from 3-15 treatments.
 
How much will it cost?
--this will depend on the size, of the tattoo, along with the amount of colors present in the tattoo. We recommend coming in for a free consultation with our Medical Esthetician. Very small tattoos with one color usually start at $75 per treatment. If you purchase a package of 3 or more treatments there will be a discount off the total price.
 
Is there any down time?
--no, but you do need to be cautious of the way you care for the area post treatment. You will have some redness and irritation to the area; scabbing and blistering are also common side effects. As long as the proper after care instructions we send you home with are followed, it will heal up just fine. You do need to keep the area hydrated for a few days after the treatment with an antibiotic ointment, and need to keep the area covered with gauze and bandages for the first 24-48 hours.

Why do some tattoos take longer to treat?
How your tattoo responds to the laser depends on individual factors.
--Unique Immune System
Some people recover from colds faster than others. That's because everyone's immune system is different and this is a factor during tattoo removal. Your body will break down the pigment at its own individual rate.
--Your Skin Tone
Lighter skin tones typically have a higher success rate in laser tattoo removal but many skin types are treatable. Some patient's tattoos are significantly reduced in appearance after the first session.
--Types of Colors Used
Black, red, dark orange and dark blue tattoos will usually respond relatively quickly to laser treatments. Green, purple, brown, light orange and light blue may require more visits.
--Types of Inks Used
Inks used for tattoos are not regulated so there are many inks out there that affect the skin in different ways. While treatment results will vary, amateur ink generally responds at a faster rate than professional ink.
--Depth of Tattoo
A tattoo that is covered by another has more ink and depth in the skin, therefore requiring additional laser treatments. Professional tattoos run deeper in the skin, requiring more treatments than amateur tattoos.



To schedule a free consultation with our Medical Esthetician for a laser tattoo removal click here or call 312.260.9000.