Laser Tattoo Removal Timeline

A typical tattoo takes about 10 treatments to remove completely. If you are looking to fade a tattoo for a coverup piece, a partial tattoo removal option will remove as much ink as possible from your skin in just one to four sessions. This can vary depending on the artist and the new artwork that you want.

How Our Laser Treatment Works

Laser tattoo removal 3 step process illustration

Laser tattoo removal works by applying concentrated energy to the ink particles. This breaks up the large particles of ink into smaller ones, allowing your immune system to flush it out. Each laser treatment works at a different depth in the skin, so multiple sessions (spaced 6-8 weeks apart) are needed to target all the ink.

Factors that Affect Tattoo Removal

Variables to the treatment timeline can include the depth and density of the tattoo, ink composition, and ink location, along with health and lifestyle choices. To improve results, we recommend maintaining a lifestyle that is as healthy as possible, staying on an exercise regimen, and massaging the removal area to increase circulation.

How Getting a Tattoo Works

To understand how tattoo removal works, you must also understand how getting a tattoo works. Once tattoo ink is logged into the middle layer of your skin, your body’s immune system sends white blood cells to the tattooed area to pull out as many ink particles as possible. Larger particles that the cells could not break down are left behind leaving the tattoo design. Over time, those cells break the larger particles down which causes natural fading.

getting a tattoo  getting a tattoo

How Our Laser Treatment Works

Tattoo removal works by breaking apart those larger ink particles layer by layer. Your body’s white blood cells can then carry away the smaller broken down particles quicker. With time and continued sessions, a tattoo can be completely removed.

laser tattoo removal

woman with arm tattoo tying running shoes

Aftercare

At Removery, we want to make sure that you get the best results from beginning to end. We're here to help you through the entire tattoo removal process and know what to expect after your tattoo removal sessions end.

Aftercare Tips

Addressing Your Concerns About Pain

Tattoo location

A dime-sized tattoo on the forearm may only take a few seconds of laser removal which would be relatively tolerable. A larger tattoo on the lower back may increase discomfort due to a longer duration of removal.

Beyond providing cold compressed air, there are other things we can do to help reduce discomfort for our clients. Below are steps we are actively taking to better your tattoo removal experience.

1. Managing Expectations

If you think something will hurt, you will likely increase the chance of experiencing discomfort. The Removery technicians will ensure that the room is set to a comfortable temperature, disinfected without smelling like a doctor’s office, and provide a squeeze ball for you to use during the session. As always, you can ask for a break if you need a few seconds to prepare.

2. During the Treatment

Breathing exercises such as the 4-square rhythmic breathing can help reduce discomfort.

  1. Breath in slowly through your nose for a count of 4.
  2. Hold your breath for a count of 4.
  3. Breath out through your mouth for a count of 4.
  4. Hold your breath for a count of 4.
  5. Repeat.

A 2015 Randomized Controlled Trial has shown that engaging in active conversation while utilizing a squeeze ball has significantly reduced client discomfort and anxiety for patients undergoing surgery. Along with conscious customer care, we will provide a count down for the test spot so that you are fully prepared. Our preparation allows you to mentally prepare for any discomfort and remember to suggest a break if needed.

Treatment FAQs

Still have questions? Here are the most common questions we get regarding our tattoo removal treatments.

View all FAQs