Tattoo Removal

Tattooing has become increasingly popular among people of all ages around the world and thus a growing need for tattoo modification and removal has arisen. Tattoos that may once have represented a special relationship or a different stage in life can later become a source of regret. Many methods are available to clients for the removal of tattoos but are often associated with pigment changes and a high risk of scarring.

For the last decade, Q-Switched Lasers have been acknowledged by dermatologists as being the Gold Standard for the removal of unwanted multi-coloured professional, amateur or traumatic tattoos with consistent predictable results. Here at Zap Laser Clinic, we are delighted to offer clients both Q-Switch and Nd:Yag Lasers for effective, safe and reliable tattoo removal.

How does laser tattoo removal work?

A very short pulse of high powered laser light is absorbed by the tattoo ink particles, not by the surrounding skin. The tattoo ink particles heat up so rapidly that the thermal shock shatters the large particles breaking them down into smaller pieces, enabling our natural immune defences to absorb and disperse the ink. Over a series of treatments, the pigment in the tattoo is destroyed and removed by the body until the tattoo fades.

Can any type of tattoo be treated successfully?

Courtesy of Laserlife Clinic
Arm Before Treatment

Q-Switch and Nd:Yag Lasers can effectively remove almost all tattoos but this cannot be guaranteed. Black and blue pigments respond extremely well however some pastel colours can prove more difficult. As tattoo removal is a progressive treatment, it can take an average of 12 to 18 months to effectively fade or remove a tattoo.

How is the treatment carried out?

The skin will be cleaned and then the laser applicator is passed over the tattoo releasing quick pulses of light. An audible ‘clicking’ noise is often heard as the ink particles shatter. After treatment, a soothing lotion and a light dressing may be applied. During treatment protective eyewear will be provided.

How does the treatment feel?

Most clients describe the treatment as mildly uncomfortable with a sensation ranging from a flick of an elastic band to a hot pin prick, but this will depend on the type of tattoo and the client’s pain threshold. Most clients tolerate treatment well, however if it becomes too severe they can prepare the area 1 – 2 hours prior to treatment with a liberal application of a local anaesthetic cream such as EMLA or Ametop.

Courtesy of Laserlife Clinic
Arm After 1 Treatment

What does the skin look like after treatment?

An instant whitening of the skin is seen a fter treatment, but this generally fades quickly. The area is likely to feel tender for a few hours and can be red and swollen for up to 48 hours. Some tattoos may swell, blister or form a graze which is quite normal, and these must be left to heal naturally. Initially the tattoo is unlikely to look any different but will gradually fade over the next 4 to 6 weeks as the body disperses the ink. Only when the skin has returned to normal, may further treatment take place.

Are there any side effects?

Very rarely the skin may become lighter or darker but the skin pigment usually returns in time. Most clients worry about scarring. This is usually associated with more aggressive earlier types of laser tattoo removal but offers virtually no risk with Q-Switch lasers as the surrounding skin is not targetted. The risk of scarring is normally attributed to post treatment grazes not being allowed to heal naturally or if the client has a genetic pre-disposition to forming scar tissue.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on several factors, including the density and colour of inks and the age of the tattoo. Amateur tattoos can be quick to remove, taking 1 to 10 treatments, whereas professional tattoos vary considerably and can take up to 15 to 20 treatments. At the consultation your tattoo(s) will be assessed and an estimate given, but this serves only as a guide as clients respond differently.

Courtesy of Laserlife Clinic
Arm After 3 Treatments

How long does a treatment take?

Treatment time varies depending on the size of the tattoo and the number of tattoos to be treated, but generally it is between 10 minutes to an hour. A better indication will be given during your consultation with your practitioner.

What are the costs likely to be?

This will be assessed at your consultation and will depend largely on the number and size of tattoo(s) to be treated. A patch test is required 48 hours minimum prior to commencing treatment.  This is charged at £25 or redeemable against a pre-paid course of 6 treatments.  Prices for tattoo removal start from as little as £30 per treatment for an extra small tattoo (less than or equal to 1" x 1"), £50 per treatment for a small tattoo (approx. 2" x 2"), £70 per treatment for a small/medium tattoo (approx. 3" x 5") and £100 for a medium tattoo (approx 5" x 7") plus discount is offered for those clients wishing to purchase a course of treatment (6).  Larger tattoos, multiple tattoos and sleeves will be priced according to time, rather than size, at the consultation.

Is the treatment safe?

Yes is the simple answer! The main risk to a client would be if a laser was fired directly into the eye. In the unlikely event, and to prevent damage to the retina, clients are provided with Protective Eyewear that are CE marked with the correct Optical Density. The Lumina IPL & Laser System from Lynton Lasers has been manufactured and tested in the UK and satisfies the requirements of the Medical Devices Directive to which it has been CE marked. Finally, Zap Laser Clinic is registered and inspected annually by the Care Quality Commission to ensure it fulfils its legal requirements as set out in the Care Standards Act 2000.

What do I do next?

Contact Zap Laser Clinic on (0118) 9331212 for further information or to book a FREE no obligation consultation. Alternatively, complete the consultation request to send an e-mail