Laser Tattoo Removal

Q-Switched lasers deliver extremely short, high-energy pulses (nanoseconds) that shatter tattoo ink particles into microscopic fragments without damaging surrounding skin. Your body's immune system then gradually clears the fragments via the lymphatic system. Different wavelengths target different ink colours.

Most tattoos take 6–12 sessions, spaced 6–8 weeks apart. Amateur tattoos and black/dark blue ink clear fastest; professional tattoos with dense, layered ink take longer. Red, yellow, green, and light blue are the most resistant colours.

Many tattoos clear fully, but some (especially those with green, yellow, or white ink, or cosmetic pigments containing iron oxide) may leave residual shadow. We'll give you an honest assessment at consultation and show you realistic before-and-afters.

Yes — expect moderate discomfort, often described as hot elastic bands snapping. We use topical numbing cream for 30–45 minutes beforehand and cryo-cooling during the session. Most clients tolerate it well, but we can discuss local anaesthetic for larger pieces.

Immediate frosting (white bubbling) for 10–20 minutes, then redness, mild swelling, and sometimes blistering or scabbing for 5–7 days. Keep the area clean, dry, and covered with healing ointment until scabs fall naturally. Full healing in 2 weeks.

Yes, but cosmetic tattoo pigments can sometimes paradoxically darken on first laser pulse (due to iron oxide oxidising). We always perform a test patch first. Cosmetic tattoos typically need 4–8 sessions.

Q-Switched Nd:YAG (1064nm) is safe for Fitzpatrick IV–VI with careful settings. Test patches are essential and pigmentation risk must be weighed. Your specialist will personalise the plan.