FAQ

“Lasers work to remove tattoos by breaking up the larger ink particles into pieces small enough for white blood cells to absorb them. To break up an ink particle, you need to heat it to make it expand due to thermal expansion, but the zap has to be quick enough so that half of the particle remains cool. The opposing cool and hot forces then separate the ink particles into smaller pieces.

Once the lasers break the ink particles apart into small enough pieces, the white blood cells can absorb them for transportation to the liver and elimination.”

“Modern tattoo removal lasers are effective at removing most tattoos, but not all tattoos can be removed completely. Factors such as color, location, the density of the ink, and age can impact the overall success of the tattoo removal process.

Older tattoos are typically the best candidates for removal, as the ink particles weaken over time and are easier to break down. Black ink is typically easiest to remove, as it absorbs light more than other colors.

Skin type is also a factor when performing laser tattoo removal. Since darker skin types have more melanin, certain colors of ink are not able to be targeted. Black ink is safe to treat on all skin types; however extra precaution should be taken with those with more pigment in their skin to avoid possible damage to the skin.

We use a cool air system to minimize the pain and thermal damage.”

“Having a tattoo removed can be quite painful, often more so than getting a tattoo in the first place. The lasers heat the ink particles to thousands of degrees to break them down, but it happens so rapidly and in a concentrated area that the energy instead collapses into a shockwave.

This shockwave vibrates through the skin and causes the upper layer of skin to lift up and appear white, or to “frost.” Though temporarily painful, this effect usually lasts just a few seconds.

Comparably the removal is less painful then getting tattooed.”

“Laser treatment is often safer than many other tattoo removal methods, such as excision, dermabrasion, or salabrasion because laser treatment selectively treats the pigment in the tattoo. And there are very few side effects. However, you should consider these factors in your decision: can leave you with a permanent scar.

Your tattoo removal site is at risk for infection. And there is a slight chance that you will have a permanent scar.

It’s unlikely that your tattoo will be completely removed. In many cases, certain colors may be more effectively removed than others. Blue and black tattoos, for example, respond well to laser treatment.

You may end up with hypopigmentation, which means the skin that is treated is paler than the skin surrounding it. You could also have hyperpigmentation, which leaves the affected skin darker than the rest of your skin.

Cosmetic tattoos like lip liner, eyeliner, and eyebrows may actually get darker after treatment. They do tend to fade over time. “

“No sun exposure, tanning beds or sunless tanning cream for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Sun exposure decreases the effectiveness of the Laser treatment and can increase the chance of post-treatment complications.

Use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Apply to the treated area every 2 hours when exposed to the sun. It is recommended that you make this a part of your skin care routine.

Remove all makeup, creams & oils prior to treatment.”

“After cleansing and while skin is still moist, apply a thin layer of Aloe Vera or Aquaphor ointment to the treated tattoo.

Apply a non-stick pad over the tattoo until it is healed.

Avoid sun exposure to the treated area. Use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply to the treated area every 2 hours when exposed to the sun. It is recommended that you make this a part of your skin care routine.

Cleanse the treated area at least daily with water and mild soap, and then pat dry.

Do not rub or scratch the area.

Discomfort may be relieved by using cool gel packs or acetaminophen.

If blistering occurs, keep the area moist by applying Aloe Vera 3 times per day or antibiotic ointment on the recommendation of your physician.

Avoid swimming, soaking or using hot tubs/whirlpools until the skin heals.”