Tattoo removal

Laser tattoo removal uses laser light that is selectively absorbed by the tattoo and ink-pigment particles settled in the skin, breaking the pigment into tiny fragments. Those fragments are then gradually cleared through the body's own metabolic process, so a tattoo fades progressively over several sessions rather than disappearing all at once. The number of sessions needed depends on the color, depth and type of ink. It is closer to using the laser to shatter a tightly packed clump of ink into crumbs, so the body can clear those fragments away a piece at a time. That is why a tattoo lightens layer by layer over several sessions rather than disappearing at once.

1) Consultation: the doctor reviews the tattoo's color, depth and area along with the skin condition and medical history (pregnancy, medications, photosensitivity, allergies, prior procedures), then determines suitability, laser strength and coverage, and the likely course of sessions. 2) Topical anesthesia (when applicable): numbing cream may be applied to reduce discomfort, used at the doctor's discretion depending on the site and area. 3) Treatment: a specific laser wavelength is delivered to the tattoo to selectively break up the pigment particles. A mild stinging or rubber-band-like snap may be felt during treatment. 4) Finishing: a soothing/regenerative cream is applied, and home-care guidance — sun protection, moisturizing, scab care — and the interval to the next session are explained. For a small area, the actual treatment time is roughly 15 minutes, and it is performed per session. The number of sessions and intervals are explained during consultation.

Right after treatment the area may show temporary redness or swelling and later form a scab, and the fading of pigment builds gradually across sessions rather than completing at once. Because the fragmented pigment takes time to be cleared through the body's metabolism, sessions are generally spaced several weeks apart (for example, about 6-8 weeks) over multiple visits. Published sources note that, depending on the tattoo's type, color and depth, removal can take a wide and variable number of sessions (commonly anywhere from a few to over a dozen), so the exact interval and number depend on the tattoo's color, depth, ink type and area as well as how the skin responds, and are decided after consultation. Pigment tends to lighten in stages as the series continues, but certain ink colors (especially light shades such as yellow, orange, green or white) or ink types can be harder to remove or require more sessions, and complete removal cannot be guaranteed. Because the intervals span several weeks, completing the full course within a short trip may not be possible, so timing is decided with the doctor. The degree and onset of results vary by individual, and pairing treatment with diligent sun protection and not picking at scabs helps reduce side effects such as pigment changes.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a photosensitivity disorder, or are taking medication that can increase photosensitivity, please inform the medical team before treatment. If there is active infection, inflammation, or a wound in the treatment area, a history of hypertrophic scarring or keloid, recent strong UV exposure or tanning, or a history of other procedures, whether to treat is decided after assessing the skin condition. After treatment, redness, warmth, swelling, blisters, or crusting may occur, and the tattoo colour may temporarily look darker, or hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation may develop. Do not burst blisters or forcibly remove crusts; allow them to heal naturally. In particular, some semi-permanent makeup or cosmetic tattoos in shades such as flesh tone, beige, or white may show a paradoxical pigment change in which the colour becomes darker after laser treatment, so if necessary a test spot is treated on a small area first. After treatment, pay attention to sun protection and do not rub or irritate the treated area. For about one to two days after treatment, it is best to avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, vigorous exercise, and alcohol. If adverse reactions such as persistent or worsening pain, severe swelling, or pus occur, medical assessment is required. The number of sessions required and the degree of removal differ according to the tattoo's colour, ink composition, depth, and density, and the skin condition, and complete removal may not be possible. Whether to treat and the laser settings and number of sessions are determined individually by the medical team.