Laser Tattoo Removal: Your Top Questions Answered

The art of tattooing is significant in many cultures today. While our reasoning for expressing ourselves through this medium may differ from centuries past, there is still meaning to the art that people tattoo on their bodies. However, there are times when a piece of tattooed art no longer holds the same value or importance. You may wonder, ‘is there a way for me to remove a tattoo that I no longer desire to have?’ Luckily, we live in a time in which that is possible. You may have many questions about tattoo removal, so we have put together some of our most frequently asked questions to help you better understand laser tattoo removal.

Q: Do Lasers Extract Tattoo Ink From Your Skin?

It is a commonly believed that laser tattoo removal extracts the ink from one’s skin to remove the tattoo, but this isn’t true. Tattoos are meant to be permanent, and they are. The ink used for tattooing is insoluble, which means it cannot dissolve or be absorbed by the body. Lasers allow us to break down the ink into small particles. When they are small enough, the body can trigger its natural healing process to absorb and remove the particles.

Q: Can Laser Tattoo Removal Address Different Color Ink?

Yes, color tattoos can be treated with lasers. However, black ink will respond the best to this type of tattoo removal because black ink absorbs the wavelengths from the lasers easier than colors. One of the most complex colors to remove is green. Luckily, at Laser Lights, we have FDA-approved lasers to treat all colors, including green.

Q: Is Laser Tattoo Removal Painful?

Pain or discomfort is relative, and every person will tolerate laser tattoo removal differently. We can use a numbing cream to alleviate discomfort, and certain over-the-counter pain relievers may also help if needed. Typically, when selecting an over-the-counter pain reliever, you will want to use a product containing acetaminophen because it does not thin your blood, which leads to bruising but will discuss with you during your treatment to recommend the best choice for your specific needs.

Q: How Many Sessions Will I Need?

Since every person is as unique as their body art, we cannot provide a one-size fits all removal plan. The amount of sessions needed to remove your tattoo will depend on several factors that are part of the Kirby-Desai Tattoo Removal Scale. For example, skin type, tattoo size, and tattoo location all contribute to developing a plan that will work for you. During your tattoo removal consultation, we will discuss all the factors that need to be considered so that you can receive the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been considering tattoo removal, the upcoming fall and winter seasons would be the perfect time to begin laser treatments. Schedule your complimentary consultation with Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center, and we will develop a customized tattoo removal treatment plan specifically for you. For more information, be sure to follow us on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.