Tattoo Removal

What is tattoo removal?

Tattoo removal is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure designed to eliminate or significantly fade unwanted tattoos. Using advanced laser technology, the ink particles embedded in the skin are broken down and gradually removed by the body’s natural processes.

Whether you regret a tattoo, want to clear space for new ink, or simply wish to restore your natural skin tone, tattoo removal offers an effective solution with minimal downtime.

 

Why have a tattoo removed?

There are many personal and professional reasons why individuals seek tattoo removal, including:

  • Regret or change in personal taste

  • Desire to remove a name or symbol no longer relevant

  • Improving employment prospects or professional appearance

  • Correcting poorly done or faded tattoos

  • Preparing for a tattoo cover-up

 

How does it work?

The Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser is one of the most effective technologies for tattoo removal. It delivers ultra-short pulses of high-intensity light energy into the skin, targeting the ink without damaging surrounding tissue.

This laser operates at multiple wavelengths, making it especially effective for treating a wide range of ink colours including darker inks like black & dark blue, and brighter colours like red, orange & yellow

The energy from the laser converts light into sound breaking down the tattoo ink into tiny fragments, which will gradually dissipate through the lymphatic system. Multiple sessions are typically required depending on the size, age, colour, and depth of the tattoo.

What are the benefits?

  • Safe and non-invasive
  • Minimal risk of scarring or skin damage
  • Suitable for various skin types
  • Gradual fading allows for discreet removal or cover-ups
  • Most effective method 
  • Removes nearly all colours
  • Safest method of removal
  • Minimal Recovery time
  • Corrections available too



Does the treatment hurt?

With a laser tattoo removal, there will be a level of discomfort. This will vary between clients, and the type of tattoo being removed.

The discomfort can be comparable to that of getting the initial tattoo, and most clients find it to be much less uncomfortable than anticipated.

How many treatments will I need?

You will begin to see a reduction of your tattoo quite quickly, however the exact timescale varies from person to person, depending on many factors, such as the size and type of the tattoo.

We would book a consultation for you, to review the tattoo and recommend a number of sessions. We would then review the tattoo as the treatments go on, to assess the progress.

Will I see immediate results?

No, however you will begin to see a reduction of your tattoo quite quickly. The exact timescale varies from person to person, depending on many factors, such as the size and type of the tattoo.

 

Can anyone have laser tattoo removal?

    Unfortunately there are some medical conditions that would make laser treatments unsafe, these are;

    • Lupus
    • Immunosuppressive diseases (such as aids/HIV)
    • Keloid scarring
    • Bleeding/clotting disorders
    • Uncontrolled hypertension
    • Anticoagulant/blood thinning medication
    • Uncontolled diabetes 
    • Skin cancer 
    • Melasma or psoriasis in the treatment area
    • Photosensitivity, or any sensitivity to the sun that causes a rash or allergic reaction
    • Gold therapy or methotrexate
    • Immunosuppressive medications
    • Liver disease, such as hepatitis
    • History of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation

    There are also some medical conditions and medications that prevent laser treatments in the short-term, but providing you have none of the above, you could commence treatment once they were resolved. these are;

    • Preghnancy & breastfeeding
    • Active skin infections (e.g. eczema, herpes/colds sores)
    • Oral Isotretinoin or other prescription acne medication (such as Accutane/Roaccutane) in the last 6 months
    • Medical chemical peel, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing or face lift at site of treatment in the last 6 months
    • Light sensitive medications/herbal supplements, or perfumes/cosmetics/skincare that affect sensitivity to light
    • Use of NSAID's in the last week
    • Surgery or anaesthetic in the last 2 weeks
    • Open lacerations or abrasions in the treatment area
    • Botox or fillers in/under the treatment area
    • Chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or radio frequency treatment in the last 4 weeks
    • Some types of antibiotics

    Is there anything I should or shouldn't do before a treatment?

    • No sun-tanning or self-tanners 3-4 weeks prior to treatment  (Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun bathing, etc), and wear sunscreen when out in the sun 

    • Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)

    • Shave the area to be treated 24 hours prior
    • Discontinue use of retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid 7 days before treatment

    • Avoid alcohol, smoking and strong painkillers for 24 hours prioir to your appointment 
    • Ensure your skin is clean and free of any makeup, moisturiser, lotions and deoderant in the treatment area before arriving

       

    Is there anything I should or shouldn't do after treatment?

    Yes, there are some important ways to take care of your skin and aid healing after treatment, these are;

    • Avoid direct sun exposure (sunbathing, holidays, sun beds) for 14-30 days post-treatment
    • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) daily
    • Avoid active skincare (retinols, AHAs, BHAs), as well as any products containing high levels of vitamin A and glycolic acid for at least 5 days
    • Keep the treated area clean and moisturised with a gentle product
    • Don’t exfoliate you skin within the first 7 days as it may cause irritation
    • Do not pick or scratch at any scabs, crusting, flaking skin or blisters
    • Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers/baths, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs for a minimum of 48 hours
    • Do not apply makeup for 24–48 hours, or until skin sensitivity has fully resolved
    • Avoid harsh skincare or cosmetics on the area until fully healed
    • Apply cool compresses as needed for discomfort or swelling

    Will tattoo removal leave a scar?

    For the majority of clients, there will be no scarring or signs of the old tattoo, once the treatment course is completed.

    However, other factors such as the type of tattoo, and your aftercare, can change this

    Are there any side effects?

    Common side effects can include; redness, swelling & sensitivity in the treated area, temporary darkening or whitening of the skin (hypo/hyperpigmentation), blistering or light scabbing (part of the healing process), and itchiness as the skin regenerates.

    Most side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within a few hours to a few days.

    Less common risks can include; mild scarring if aftercare isn’t followed properly, and incomplete removal (some inks, especially bright colors, may be stubborn).

    Does everyone need a consultation & patch test before treatment?

    Yes, all laser treatments require a full consultation & patch test before the first treatment can go ahead. 

    During the consultation we'll discuss your medical history, medications and other influencing factors, to make sure laser is a safe and suitable treatment for your goals.

    We will then carry out a patch test to assess your skin sensitivity & response to the laser. This helps determine the appropriate settings for the laser & identify any potential adverse reactions or side effects. 

    Please allow up to an hour for the initial consultation appointment.