Frequently Asked Questions
How does laser tattoo removal work?
The laser light passes through the top layer of skin, the targeted ink particles of the tattoo absorb the light energy which shatter into small pieces so that the body’s immune system and lymphatic system can clear them away.
How long does each treatment take?
Depending on the size of the tattoo treatments can take from less than a minute.
How many treatments does it require?
On average, tattoos take between 5 and 15 treatments. Things such as colour of tattoo, type of ink, skin type, and location of tattoo affect how many treatments you will need. When you come in for a consultation we can look at your tattoo and assess this with you.
How often do I need to have a treatment?
Best results are noted when treatments are performed 6 – 12 weeks apart.
Will the tattoo lighten with one treatment?
Most people will note a result within 1-3 treatments depending on ink, size and location of tattoo.
If the tattoo looks healed can I come in before six weeks?
No, it takes 6 – 12 weeks for the proper immune response to be effective.
Does it hurt?
We take precautions to minimise the amount of discomfort associated with treatments.
Zimmer Cooler: A Zimmer cooling machine is used to cool the skin before, during and directly after the treatment, allowing for a comfortable treatment. The cold air is intended to minimize pain by providing temporary topical relief.
Numbing cream: Prior to your treatment, you may numb the area with a topical anaesthetic cream (such as Emla or Dr Numb), available over the counter at any pharmacy (Emla) or online (Dr Numb).
Panadol: Some patients find that taking Panadol 30 – 60 minutes prior to their treatment helps pain tolerance.
What should I do before my treatment?
Avoid sun exposure (including solariums) to the treatment area for the 6 weeks leading up to the treatment. If you have fake tan on the treatment area, please scrub it off to ensure all fake tan is removed before treatment.
Shave the area the day before treatment if the tattoo is in a hair baring area (if necessary and if possible). Optional: apply a topical anaesthetic 60 minutes prior to treatment. Avoid aspirin, warfarin, ibuprofen and blood thinning medication before treatment.
What do I need to do after I am treated?
First 24 hours:
- Apply cold pack as needed, usually 5-10 minutes every 1-2 hours is sufficient.
- Rest, avoid excess physical activity. Limit exercise, avoid steam rooms, saunas or swimming.
- Elevate the treated area if mild swelling present.
- Avoid sun exposure including tanning beds.
After 24 hours and until healed:
- It is important to use your recommended cream twice daily.
- All activities may be resumed except swimming, steam rooms, saunas.
- Do not pop or pick any scabs or blisters or you may risk infection and scarring.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds during healing process between treatments.
Can multi-coloured tattoos be removed fully?
In most situations yes, but not always. We always recommend a consultation and assessment prior to going ahead with treatment. We use a Medlite C6 laser which is the gold standard for tattoo removal and has 4 wavelengths to remove most colours of ink (although white usually can’t be removed), so you can be assured the best laser is being used for the best desired result.
Can I have just a piece of the tattoo removed?
Yes, the laser is accurate and can remove unwanted parts of tattoos.
Can the treated area be tattooed over after removal or fading?
Yes, the treated area can be tattooed over after removal or fading.
Does the laser cause scarring?
Most of the time no but 99% of that is being compliant with aftercare instructions. If you are not 100% compliant with our aftercare instructions, scarring could result.