Laser tattoo removal is one of our most popular procedures. We get countless inquiries daily from people of any age, profession, gender, or religion who want to remove a tattoo from their bodies.
To make your research easier, we created this comprehensive Q&A guide, answering all of your hottest questions.
Feel free to jump to the ones you’re interested in from the table of contents:
- Why would anyone want a tattoo removal?
- How a laser removes a tattoo?
- Can I remove a tattoo completely with a laser?
- How to get more information about my case?
- What to expect from the treatment?
- Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
- Can I remove semi-permanent makeup?
- Can I remove scalp micropigmentation?
- How many sessions do I need?
- Is one session enough for tattoo removal?
- Can I do a new tattoo over a removed one?
- Can laser tattoo removal leave a scar?
- How much time do I need to see results after tattoo removal?
- What are the disadvantages of getting a tattoo removed with a laser?
- What to do before a tattoo removal session?
- How to take care of the skin after tattoo removal?
- Can you work out after laser tattoo removal?
- Can I go to the beach after the tattoo removal session?
- Can you donate blood after laser tattoo removal?
- What’s the treatment frequency?
- What’s the success rate of laser tattoo removal?
- How much time does the skin heal after tattoo removal?
- What’s the price of tattoo removal with a laser?
- What happens with the tattoo ink after the treatment?
- Do tattoos go darker after laser tattoo removal?
- What’s easier to remove – an old or new tattoo?
- What’s easier to remove – a black or colored tattoo?
- What colors are impossible to remove?
Why would anyone want a tattoo removal?
There are several reasons why someone might want to remove a tattoo.
Regret
One of the most common reasons people seek tattoo removal is because they regret getting the tattoo in the first place. This can happen for various reasons, such as a change in personal style, a shift in beliefs or values, or simply not liking how the tattoo looks.
Employment
Some people may have visible tattoos and feel that it impacts their ability to find employment or progress in their careers. In some industries, tattoos may be seen as unprofessional or inappropriate – for example, in corporate professions, healthcare, hospitality, government, and public services.
Fading or aging
Over time, tattoos may fade or become distorted due to sun exposure or skin elasticity changes. This can cause some people to seek removal to improve the appearance of their skin.
Relationship changes
Once meaningful and significant, tattoos may lose their significance after a relationship ends, prompting individuals to seek removal to move on.
Health reasons
In rare cases, people may develop an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink or may experience other medical complications, prompting the need for removal.
It’s important to note that tattoo removal is a personal choice, and there is no right or wrong reason for seeking it.
How a laser removes a tattoo?
Laser tattoo removal uses high-intensity light to break down the ink particles in the skin. The laser emits short pulses of light absorbed by the ink in the tattoo, causing it to heat up and break down into smaller fragments. The body’s immune system can then eliminate these smaller fragments.
Can I remove a tattoo completely with a laser?
Yes, laser tattoo removal is a common and effective method. However, it’s important to note that complete removal is not always guaranteed, and the effectiveness of the treatment can vary depending on several factors, such as:
- Tattoo size;
- Complexity;
- Tattoo colors;
- The age of the tattoo;
- Your skin type.
Overall, laser tattoo removal can be an effective way to remove a tattoo. Still, it requires careful consideration and planning to ensure the process is safe and effective for each patient. Working with a qualified medical professional to determine the best course of action for tattoo removal is essential.
How to get more information about my case?
We can speak only about communication with our clinic. You don’t need to book a consultation for laser tattoo removal and come to the clinic. It’s enough to send us pictures of your tattoo via WhatsApp. Our professionals will evaluate the tattoos’ size, type, and colors.
Then you’ll receive an estimated price for the number of sessions. If you’re okay with the price, we’ll discuss your skin type and the number of sessions. We’ll send you pre and post-preparation instructions to plan your visits and adjust your lifestyle to this upcoming therapy.
Once you’re ready, we’ll book your appointment and welcome you to the clinic for each session.
What to expect from the treatment?
At 7 Derma, we usually ask you to come 30-40 mins before your treatment to apply numbing cream. This cream makes the treatment less painful.
Then we give you special glasses to wear to cover and protect your eyes from the laser light. The next step is to start the procedure. The length of the treatment depends on the size of the tattoo. It can take between 5 and 30 minutes.
Then we apply anti-inflammatory cream and share with you post-treatment instructions to follow.
That’s it!
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Laser tattoo removal can be uncomfortable, and some patients may experience pain during the treatment. The amount of pain experienced can vary depending on several factors, including the tattoo’s size and location, the ink’s colors, and the individual’s pain tolerance.
Please, note that the treatment is not more painful than having a tattoo. We also apply numbing cream, so you feel more comfortable during the treatment.
In general, the treatment is tolerated well by all patients.
Can I remove semi-permanent makeup?
Yes, laser tattoo removal can remove semi-permanent makeup tattoos (brows, lips, eyeliner). SPMU tattoos are generally less deeply embedded in the skin than traditional tattoos, so they may require fewer sessions to remove. However, using iron oxides in some microblading pigments can make them more difficult to remove than others.
The number of sessions required for laser tattoo removal of semi-permanent makeup tattoos typically ranges from 1-4 sessions, spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. You may need fewer sessions if you want to do a new tattoo over the old SPMU tattoo (1-2, for example).
Fact: Did you know that we also offer SPMU services? Our medical therapist Olga Lelekova has specialized in SPMU and SMP – she’s a fully trained and qualified artist with impressive results. Check her Instagram.
Can I remove scalp micropigmentation?
Yes. Our laser tattoo removal machines can eliminate scalp micropigmentation work. In fact, we have many clients coming for removal and repair.
The number of sessions required to remove scalp micropigmentation ink from your scalp with laser tattoo removal may vary depending on various factors such as the depth of the pigment, the type of ink used, the size of the area, and the individual’s skin type and other factors.
Typically, a minimum of 3-5 sessions of laser tattoo removal are required to remove scalp micropigmentation ink effectively, and the treatments are usually spaced about 4-8 weeks apart.
Fact: Once the old SMP ink is removed, we can create a new natural-looking SMP. Our SMP artist Olga Lelekova is amazing at repairing bad SMP. She creates true magic. Check her Instagram for her results.
How many sessions do I need?
Some standard tattoos can be removed in just a few sessions – for example, 3-5 visits. Others may require many sessions spread over several months or even years – 6-10 sessions or even more than 10 sessions.
Most tattoos require multiple treatment sessions for complete removal (6+ sessions). Generally, tattoos that are smaller, less complex, and contain darker colors will require fewer sessions than larger, more complex tattoos or tattoos with lighter colors.
Semi-permanent makeup tattoos require up to 4 sessions and even less if you want to do a new tattoo over the old one. Please, contact us, and we’ll discuss your case.
Is one session enough for tattoo removal?
Removing a tattoo with just one laser tattoo removal session is not typically possible. The process has multiple healing stages, and most tattoos require numerous sessions spread across several months.
However, if you aim to fade the tattoo and then refresh a new one (semi-permanent makeup), then 1-2 sessions might be enough for your case.
It’s essential to work with a qualified medical professional to determine the best course of action for tattoo removal and to manage expectations for the process. They will be able to evaluate the individual’s tattoo and skin type and provide a more accurate estimate of the number of sessions required for complete removal.
Can I do a new tattoo over a removed one?
Getting a new tattoo over an area where a previous tattoo has been removed with a laser is possible. However, please wait until the skin has fully healed and any redness or scarring from the laser removal process has subsided.
It is recommended to wait at least 4-8 weeks after the final laser tattoo removal session before getting a new tattoo over the same area. Also, please find a qualified tattoo artist who has experience working on areas of the skin that have undergone laser tattoo removal.
The skin in these areas may be more sensitive or prone to scarring, so the tattoo artist may need to adjust their technique or use different ink colors or brands to minimize the risk of complications.
Can laser tattoo removal leave a scar?
Laser tattoo removal is generally considered a safe and effective way to remove unwanted tattoos. However, in some cases, the treatment can cause scarring or other skin changes.
The risk of scarring is highest in individuals with a history of abnormal scarring, poor wound healing, or those who have previously experienced scarring from a tattoo. The risk can also increase if the laser treatment is too aggressive or the individual does not follow proper aftercare instructions.
In some cases, laser tattoo removal can also cause changes in the pigment or texture of the skin, such as hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin). These changes are usually temporary, but in rare cases, they can be permanent.
To minimize the risk of scarring or other skin changes, working with a qualified medical professional with experience in laser tattoo removal is essential.
How much time do I need to see results after tattoo removal?
Generally, it takes several weeks or months after the first laser tattoo removal session to see noticeable results. During this time, the body’s immune system gradually removes the ink particles that the laser has broken down.
Having realistic expectations for laser tattoo removal and understanding that complete removal may not be possible for all tattoos is essential. Some tattoos may only fade or become lighter after laser removal rather than disappear completely.
What are the disadvantages of getting a tattoo removed with a laser?
While laser tattoo removal is generally considered a safe and effective way to remove unwanted tattoos if done by licensed and experienced professionals, however, there are some disadvantages to the treatment that your therapist can solve:
Pain and discomfort
Laser tattoo removal can be uncomfortable or painful. The best remedy for the pain is numbing creams and relaxations before the treatment.
Risk of scarring
In some cases, laser tattoo removal can cause scarring or other skin texture or pigment changes. To prevent that, choose a licensed therapist and follow their post-care instructions strictly.
Incomplete removal
In some cases, laser tattoo removal may not altogether remove the tattoo, leaving behind residual pigmentation or scarring. Ask your therapist for your case and set expectations.
Multiple treatment sessions
Most tattoos require multiple laser tattoo removal sessions spaced out over several weeks or months, which can be time-consuming and costly. Prepare mentally for the therapy and plan.
Risk of infection
There is a small risk of infection associated with laser tattoo removal, mainly if the skin is not correctly cleaned and cared for after the procedure. To prevent that, choose a licensed therapist and follow their post-care instructions strictly.
Side effects
Some individuals may experience side effects such as redness, swelling, or blistering after laser tattoo removal, although these usually subside within a few days.
While there are some potential disadvantages or risks associated with laser tattoo removal, the procedure can effectively remove unwanted tattoos with minimal scarring or other skin changes.
What to do before a tattoo removal session?
Proper skin preparation is essential to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of laser tattoo removal. Here are some steps that you can take to prepare your skin for the procedure:
Avoid sun exposure
Avoid direct sun exposure to the tattooed area for at least 4 weeks before the laser treatment, as this can increase the risk of skin damage and may also interfere with the effectiveness of the laser.
Avoid self-tanners and skin irritants
Avoid using self-tanning products or other skin irritants on the tattooed area for at least 2 weeks before the treatment.
Keep the area clean
Avoid applying lotions, creams, or other products to the area before the treatment to minimize the risk of irritation and inflammation.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water in the days following the treatment can help keep the skin hydrated and improve its ability to heal after the laser treatment.
Inform your provider of any medications
It’s essential to inform the medical professional performing the laser tattoo removal of any medications or supplements you take. Some medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be temporarily discontinued before the treatment to reduce the risk of bleeding or other complications.
Shave the area
It’s important to shave the area before the treatment to ensure that the laser can penetrate the skin and target the tattoo pigment.
How to take care of the skin after tattoo removal?
After laser tattoo removal, following proper skin care instructions is essential to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. You should follow these instructions for several weeks to months after your treatment. Your healthcare provider will provide specific recommendations based on your individual needs.
Here are some general guidelines for taking care of your skin after laser tattoo removal:
Keep the treated area clean and dry
Keeping the treated area clean and dry is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Gently clean the area with mild soap and water, and pat it dry with a clean towel.
Apply a topical ointment
Your healthcare provider may recommend applying a topical ointment or cream to the treated area to promote healing and prevent infection. Follow their instructions for application and avoid using products that are not recommended.
Avoid exposing the treated area to the sun
Direct sun exposure can cause skin damage and interfere with healing. Wear clothing that covers the treated area or apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF when you need to be outside.
Do not scratch or pick at scabs
As the treated area heals, it’s normal for scabs to form. Do not scratch or pick at these scabs, as this can lead to scarring or other skin damage.
Avoid strenuous activity and exercise
For the first 5 days after treatment, it’s essential to avoid it. This can help prevent excessive sweating, irritating the treated area.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated can help to promote skin healing and reduce the risk of side effects such as dryness or itching.
It’s essential to follow these instructions carefully and to contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about your recovery. They can provide specific recommendations based on your needs and the treatment details.
Can you work out after laser tattoo removal?
It’s recommended to avoid intense exercise or activities that may cause sweating or friction to the treated area for at least 24-48 hours. This is to prevent irritation, infection, or other complications that may delay the healing process and affect the final results of the treatment.
Can I go to the beach after the tattoo removal session?
Going to the beach or participating in any activities involving sun exposure or water immersion for at least two weeks after a laser tattoo removal session is not recommended. This is because the skin is sensitive and vulnerable during this time, and exposure to sunlight or seawater can increase the risk of skin damage or infection.
Direct sun exposure can cause the treated area to become inflamed, irritated, and even more sensitive. The heat from the sun can also cause the skin to blister, slowing the healing process and increasing the risk of scarring. Similarly, saltwater and chlorine can cause irritation and dryness, which can delay healing and lead to complications.
Can you donate blood after laser tattoo removal?
It’s safe to donate blood after laser tattoo removal. There is no evidence to suggest that the laser removal process affects blood donation eligibility or poses a risk to the donor or the recipient.
However, some blood donation centers may have their own policies regarding tattoos or recent skin procedures. They may ask donors to wait for a specific period before donating blood after a tattoo removal procedure. This is because there is a small risk of infection or inflammation after the treatment, which could affect the safety and quality of the donated blood.
It is recommended to check with your local blood donation center to confirm their policy regarding tattoo removal and blood donation and to follow any specific instructions they may provide.
What’s the treatment frequency?
The frequency of sessions for laser tattoo removal depends on several factors, including the size, color, and location of the tattoo, the individual’s skin type, and the type of laser used for the treatment. In general, multiple sessions are required to achieve optimal results.
Most laser tattoo removal procedures are spaced several weeks to several months apart to allow the skin time to heal and the body to absorb the ink particles. Your healthcare provider will determine the exact frequency of sessions based on your individual needs, but it’s typical to have treatments every 4-8 weeks (depending on your recovery).
What’s the success rate of laser tattoo removal?
According to studies, the success rate of laser tattoo removal is between 70% and 90%. This means that, on average, most people will see a significant reduction in the appearance of their tattoos after a series of laser treatments.
However, it’s essential to remember that a tattoo’s complete removal may not be possible in all cases. Some tattoos may be too large, deep, or colorful to remove with laser treatment alone.
The success of laser tattoo removal also depends on following post-treatment care instructions carefully, such as avoiding sun exposure and keeping the treated area clean and dry. Following the recommended treatment schedule and attending all appointments are crucial for achieving optimal results.
How much time does the skin heal after tattoo removal?
Immediately after the treatment, the skin may be red, swollen, and sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. This is a typical and expected response to the laser energy and typically resolves within a few hours to a few days.
Over the following days and weeks, the treated area may scab or crust over as the body removes the ink particles. It’s important not to pick at or scratch the scabs, as this can increase the risk of infection and scarring. The scabs will usually fall off within 1-2 weeks.
After the scabs have fallen off, the skin may appear pink or discolored for several weeks. It’s essential to avoid sun exposure during this time, as the skin will be more sensitive to UV rays and more prone to sunburn.
The skin should generally fully heal within 4-6 weeks after the laser tattoo removal treatment. However, the exact healing time will depend on the individual and the details of their treatment.
What’s the price of tattoo removal with a laser?
We can only comment on the price we provide for our patients. At 7 Derma, the price depends on your tattoo size. Therefore, always send us on WhatsApp or Instagram pictures of your tattoo, and we’ll reply with a specific price range.
Usually, we charge the following:
- Tiny tattoo (around 5 sq. cm) – between 200-400 dhs for 2 sessions;
- Small tattoo (around 10 sq cm) – between 400-600 dhs for 2 sessions;
- Medium tattoo (around 15 sq. cm) – between 600-800 dhs for 2 sessions;
- Large tattoo (larger than 20 sq. cm) – 800 dhs+ for 2 sessions.
Contact us for a personalized offer and get our monthly offer: Buy 1 session and get 1 session free. In this way, you save 50% of the total price.
What happens with the tattoo ink after the treatment?
During laser tattoo removal treatment, high-intensity laser energy targets the ink particles in the skin. The laser breaks up the ink into tiny fragments, which the body’s immune system recognizes as foreign objects and gradually removes over time.
After the treatment, the broken-down ink particles are removed from the body through the lymphatic system. This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual’s immune system and treatment details.
Do tattoos go darker after laser tattoo removal?
Immediately after the laser treatment, the treated area may appear darker or more visible due to a phenomenon called “frosting.” When the ink particles absorb the laser energy, it can cause a temporary whitening or frosting of the skin in the treated area. This whitening effect can make the tattoo appear darker or more prominent immediately after the treatment.
Fortunately, this is a temporary side effect and typically resolves within a few minutes to a few hours after the treatment. Over time, the ink particles will continue to break down and be eliminated by the body, gradually fading the tattoo’s appearance.
What’s easier to remove – an old or new tattoo?
Older tattoos are easier to remove than new tattoos using laser tattoo removal. They may have more faded ink that is not as deeply embedded in the skin, making it easier for the laser energy to break up the ink particles. Additionally, older tattoos may have been created using inks that are easier to remove with lasers.
On the other hand, new tattoos tend to have more vibrant and saturated colors and ink that is more deeply embedded in the skin. This can make them more challenging to remove with laser treatment.
What’s easier to remove – a black or colored tattoo?
In general, black ink is the easiest color to remove with laser tattoo removal. This is because black ink absorbs all wavelengths of light, making it more responsive to laser energy.
Colored tattoos, on the other hand, can be more difficult to remove, as different colors of ink respond differently to different wavelengths of light. Specific colors, such as green, blue, and purple, can be particularly challenging to remove, as they absorb light differently than black ink.
What colors are impossible to remove?
While most tattoo colors can be removed with laser tattoo removal, specific colors can be more difficult or impossible to remove completely. These colors include:
- White: White ink does not absorb laser energy well, so it may not respond to laser treatment.
- Flesh tones: Some tattoos contain flesh tones that can be difficult to remove, as they are designed to blend in with the skin.
- Fluorescent colors: Fluorescent colors, such as neon greens and pinks, can be challenging to remove, as they may contain chemicals that react poorly to laser treatment.
- Metallic colors: Metallic colors, such as gold or silver, contain metal particles that can reflect laser energy, making them more challenging to remove.
- Pastel colors: Pastel colors, such as light blue or pink, may contain less pigment than darker colors, making them more difficult to remove.
At 7 Derma, we are focused on removing black and dark-colored tattoos only.
Send us your tattoo pictures on WhatsApp (lower right corner icon) to give you a personalized offer. We’re excited to help you get rid of unwanted tattoos.
