Laser technology offers permanent tattoo removal at the speed of light, scientifically calibrated to the color of the pigments of the tattoo.

Laser-assisted tattoo removal is a procedure approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Complete elimination of tattoos cannot be guaranteed.

How does laser tattoo removal work?

A tattoo is created by depositing various colored pigments under the skin, for decorative or cosmetic purposes. A tattoo may even be caused by an explosion or by a scrape or fall on asphalt, which cause bits of metal, dirt, or carbon to become lodged under the skin.

Many methods have been used in attempts to remove tattoos, including surgical excision, use of acids and bleaching agents, destruction by heat or cold, additional flesh-colored tattoos over the site, sanding or dermabrasion, as well as various older laser therapies.

Q-switched, pigment-specific lasers represent the newest state-of-art technology specifically designed for the removal of tattoos. The Alexandrite Laser is used for the treatment of multi-colored tattoos, and the Ruby Laser is used to remove black or blue tattoos.

Highly concentrated light is transmitted 1-5 milimeters into the skin. The light targets the pigment of the tattoo. The tattoo absorbs the light, where it is converted to heat, causing thermal damage to the tattoo pigment without harming the surrounding skin.

Several factors, including the size, color and site of the tattoo, determine the number of treatments necessary. Multicolored professional tattoos typically require eight or more laser treatments. Amateur or traumatic blue-black tattoos need as few as two to six treatments.

Pigmented lesions on the skin, such as freckles, sun spots and age spots, can be treated the same way with the same laser technology.

What should I do before treatment?

If necessary, shaving - but not waxing - is permitted prior to the laser treatment.
Do not use glycolic or Retin-A products for at least three days prior to the procedure.

What happens during laser tattoo removal?

Although no two people have the same tolerance for pain, patients state that the sensation from the laser is similar to that of a "rubber band being snapped against the skin." For extra-sensitive treament areas, a local anesthetic cream may be applied prior to treatment.

The length of an individual treatment is based on the density of tattoo pigmentation and overall size of the area to be treated.

Treatments are usually scheduled at six to eight week intervals, but can be scheduled more or less frequently, depending on your individual response.

How will my skin look after treatment?

Most patients show some skin irritation, which usually appears red for a brief time. There may be swelling, mild bruising and scabbing which can last up to one or two weeks. A moisturizing cream is usually recommended for application to the site.

Significant fading of the tattoo continues for up to six months following laser treatment.

Am I a candidate for laser tattoo removal?

While side effects are minimal, there is a risk of skin texture change or scarring, dyspigmentation (skin lightening or darkening), incomplete removal of tattoo pigments, and allergic reaction to residual shattered tattoo pigments.

Additionally, there is a possibility of darkening of flesh-toned, white or brown tattoo pigments, seen primarily in cosmetic tattoos such as eye- and lip liner. Some tattoos cannot be removed completely.

Final thoughts...