Laser Removal
At Radiant Custom Tattoo we understand that every tattoo tells a story, holds a special meaning or shared experience, and sometimes those stories change or perhaps you're looking to embrace a new aesthetic, move on from the past, or simply refine your art, we provide compassionate and professional care tailored to your needs. Your reasons for removal are valid, and we are here to support you on this journey with the utmost respect and expertise. Let us help you achieve the look you desire with confidence.
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Laser tattoo removal works by using a laser to shatter tattoo ink particles into smaller pieces that the body's immune system can then remove. The laser light selectively targets the ink, breaking it down without harming the surrounding skin. This process, called selective photothermolysis, requires multiple sessions as the body gradually clears the ink over time.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Laser Targeting:
Lasers emit high-intensity light beams that are absorbed by the tattoo ink.
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Ink Fragmentation:
The absorbed light energy causes the ink particles to heat up and shatter into smaller fragments.
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Immune Response:
The body's immune system, specifically white blood cells, recognizes and removes these smaller ink particles.
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Gradual Fading:
Over a series of treatments, the tattoo fades as the body continues to eliminate the ink.
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Selective Photothermolysis:
The laser's selective targeting of ink particles, rather than the surrounding skin, is crucial for minimizing damage.
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Number of Sessions:
The number of sessions needed varies depending on factors like ink color, tattoo age, and skin type.
Does laser tattoo removal really work?
The answer to this question depends on whether or not you’re able to have enough laser tattoo removal sessions to achieve your desired results (i.e. lightening your tattoo a degree in preparation for a cover-up or erasing it completely).If you don’t see the whole process through then laser tattoo removal may not be totally successful for you. However, if you’re patient and persevere, then you’ll see that laser tattoo removal has a progressive effect with each treatment. You may see minimal to no visible lightening after the first 1-3 sessions, but that doesn’t mean the process isn’t working. After your first few sessions, you’ll see progressively more dramatic lightening after each subsequent treatment.
Can laser tattoo removal damage my skin?
There is always a small risk of hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation with laser tattoo removal. It’s rare that people’s skin is lightened or darkened by a laser, but when it happens, the effect is typically temporary. Blistering may occur, however it should be a temporary issue. Some people react to all stages of laser tattoo removal with a mild degree of blistering and bruising right after a treatment, but it’s most likely to occur during the phase of treatments when blue and green inks are being targeted. If it happens to you, it is not cause for alarm. Just apply a lotion or salve that’s rich in super-healing vitamin E.
How many sessions will I need to fully remove my tattoo?
It’s impossible to predict the exact number of laser tattoo removal sessions someone will require to fully remove their tattoo. The reason is that there are so many outlying factors involved: age of a tattoo, the colors involved, whether or not it was done by a professional artist, the tattoo’s proximity to the heart, ect. Work done by an amateur tattoo artist may only need 2-3 sessions before their tattoo is completely gone. On average, it takes anywhere from 8-12 sessions to fully remove a professional tattoo. Laser tattoo removal can be a long process for some people, a process that can take a year or more in many cases, since you have to wait 4-6 weeks in between treatments.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Laser tattoo removal doesn’t exactly tickle, yet anyone who’s sat through the pain of getting a tattoo is apt to say they wish it had involved the same short-lived pain that having laser tattoo removal does. An average small tattoo can typically be treated in under a minute, but the total treatment time varies widely based on the size of the tattoo. If you’re concerned that you won’t be able to tolerate the short-lived discomfort of a laser tattoo removal session, don’t worry; there are a couple options that can help you. First, speak to the laser removal specialist during your consultation about your options.
Laser tattoo removal aftercare focuses on keeping the treated area clean, dry, and moisturized while minimizing sun exposure and potential irritation. It’s crucial to avoid picking at scabs or blisters and to protect the area from sunlight to prevent complications like scarring or hyperpigmentation. Following these guidelines promotes optimal healing and helps achieve the best possible results.
Immediate Post Treatment
Keep the area clean and dry:
Gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water, pat dry, and apply a thin layer of a recommended moisturizer
Cover the area:
A sterile non stick bandage can be used to protect the area, especially during the initial healing phase.
Manage discomfort:
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain. Over the counter pain relievers like Tylenol can be used, but avoid Aspirin due to it’s potential to increase bleeding or bruising.
Blisters and scabs:
Blistering is a common occurrence. Do not open, pick, or scratch at them. They will reabsorb naturally within 7-10 days.
Hygiene:
You can shower 8 hours after the treatment, but avoid high pressure water directly on the treated area. Avoid soaking the area or applying any products that contain fragrances.
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Long Term
Moisturize regularly:
Continue to moisturize the area to prevent dryness and itching.
Avoid sun exposure:
Protect the treated area from the sun for at least 3 months with a high SPF sunscreen.
Avoid irritants:
Avoid lotions and soaps containing perfumes or exfoliants.
No picking or scratching:
Picking and scratching can lead to scarring and infection
Avoid hot tubs, saunas and swimming:
Until the skin is fully healed, avoid activities that involve soaking the tissue.
