Laser Tattoo Removal

Over the last decade, the development of the Q-switched laser has revolutionised the tattoo removal process.  These lasers work on Photo Acoustic principles, meaning that they selectively target the tattoo ink, without damaging any of the surrounding skin or tissue.

Q- switched lasers operate at nano and pico second speeds to shatter the tattoo ink within the dermis, which is then absorbed and removed by the immune system.  Due to the speed and precision targeting of these laser pulses, the procedures are almost painless and carry very little likelihood of scarring.

Tattoos are designed to be permanent, so clearance may take between 4 and 10 treatments.  Factors that influence the number of treatments necessary include skin type, tattoo colours, location on the body, amount of ink and presence of any scarring in the area.

The “state of the art”Laser for tattoo removal emit multiple wavelengths to treat almost every type and colour of pigments.

At Alabaster Skin Laser Clinic, we use the powerful Quanta brand of lasers.  These lasers operate at three different wavelengths, allowing us to efficiently remove the full spectrum of tattoo colours across all skin types.  The strength and speed of these lasers also ensures a quicker and more comfortable treatment experience, reduced healing time and greatly reduced chances of scarring.

At Alabaster Skin Laser Clinic, we pride ourselves on staying abreast of and investing in the latest technology, education and training from around the globe.  We strongly believe that Quanta lasers are the most advanced and suitable form of technology currently available for effective relatively pain free and scar free tattoo removal.

Who can benefit from Laser Tattoo Removal?

Because each tattoo is unique, removal techniques must be tailored to suit each individual case.  In the past, tattoos could be removed by a wide variety of methods but, in many cases, the scars were more unsightly than the tattoo itself.  People with previously treated tattoos may also be candidates for laser therapy.  Tattoos that have not been effectively removed by other treatments may respond well to Laser therapy providing the prior treatments did not result in excessive scarring.

How many treatments are necessary?

Tattoos are designed to be permanent; consequently, for effective removal it is necessary to undergo a series of treatments.  Depending on a variety of factors, clinical endpoints are typically reached in anywhere from 4 to 10 appointments.  In order to estimate the necessary number of treatments, we will consider the following criteria:

 

  • Skin Type – darker skin types require more treatments
  • Tattoo Colours – black tattoos are the easiest to remove. Multicoloured tattoos require more treatments
  • Location of Tattoo – areas with better circulation, such as the head and neck, require fewer treatments than an extremity such as a hand or finger
  • Amount of Ink – measured both by the density of the tattoo and if it was done professionally or not
  • Layering – if one tattoo has been covered by another, it will take more treatments to remove
  • Presence of Scarring – the presence of a prior scar in the area will increase the number of treatments needed
  • Tattoo Age – older tattoos can generally be removed with fewer treatments than newer tattoos. Newer tattoos usually require more treatments due to both the quality of the ink and the wider range of colours used.

How long do treatments take?

For your first consultation, we generally allow 45 minutes to an hour.  This gives us time to conduct a thorough assessment, explain the treatment process and answer any questions you may have.  If you then choose to go ahead with our services, we may have time to conduct your first treatment.

Subsequent treatments are usually much shorter.  Whilst the duration of each treatment is dependent on the size and colour of the tattoo most treatments are completed within 15-30 minutes.

How often can I be treated?

We strongly recommend that you leave at least 8 weeks between laser treatments on the same site. This is not dependent upon your healing capabilities, but rather, on the time it takes for your immune system to remove the shattered ink particles from the treatment site.

Does laser tattoo removal hurt?

When performed on treated skin, the experience is commonly likened to the feeling of a rubber band being snapped against your skin.  However, at Alabaster Skin Laser Clinic, we use the state-of-the-art KOOLIO Air Cooling System by Quanta to reduce the temperature of the skin, before, during and after laser application.

Can you remove only part of my tattoo?

Yes.  We can remove as much or as little of your tattoo as you like.  Our lasers are very accurate and can be targeted to selectively treat ink spots as small as pin heads.

Can you perform laser tattoo removal on all parts of the body?

Yes we regularly treat tattoos of various sizes on all parts of the body including hands, neck, arms, legs, back, chest, breasts, stomach, buttock, groin, legs and feet.

Can I get a new tattoo on the same spot after the removal?

Yes.  We can either fade your tattoo in order to give you a greater range of colour and design options for a cover-up tattoo, or remove it completely to make space for a brand new design.  In either case, it is essential that you allow the treated area to heal completely before commencing the application of the new tattoo.

What do I do for aftercare?

  • Avoid excessive heat in the skin (exercise, hot showers, hot work environments, etc) for at least 24 hours after treatment
  • Hot baths, hot tubs and saunas should be avoided for at least one week following treatment
  • Avoid sun exposure and solariums at all times during the healing and ongoing treatment process. Protective clothing and or SPF30+ sun block is recommended
  • You may resume exercise and other activities within 24-48 hours after treatment, but avoid contact with the treated skin