Tattoo Removal

How does Tattoo Removal work?

• Our Laser Light is absorbed by the particles of tattoo pigment which lie between 0.5mm and 0.3mm into the skin.
• The Laser light causes the ink particles to heat rapidly resulting in the formation of a shockwave.
• The ink structures expand and fragment the collagen capsule and the encapsulated pigment.
• The smaller ink particles are gradually removed by phagocytosis (the body’s own defence mechanism).
• The exploding particle may cause localised damage to the dermis in the form of vacuoles (microscopic holes), erythema (inflammation) and possibly ruptured capillary vessels (bleeding).
• The skin rapidly heals and the process can be repeated to remove deeper lying tattoo pigment.
• In time the tattoo fades away.

What types of Tattoos do we treat?

• Professional Tattoos
• Amateur Tattoos
• Cover up Tattoos
• Multi-coloured inks
• Permanent Makeup (not eyeliner)

What if I just want to fade my tattoo for cover up tattoo?

• In cases where the original tattoo is particularly dark or has bled over the years, you may need to have areas treated by Laser to make the skin workable with a new more detailed design. If you go ahead and get a cover up tattoo without fading the original tattoo, the ink could end up lacking definition.
• If you want to be happy with the results of your new cover up tattoo the best way is to fade the old tattoo with a laser.
• To fade a tattoo you will not need as many sessions as removal.
• You will be better advised at your consultation on the number of sessions and results.

Who is suitable for the treatment?

• Anyone who wants to remove an unwanted Tattoo including permanent makeup.

Who is not suitable for the treatment?

• Clients with compromised immune systems or lymph system disorder and history of poor wound healing.
• Very dark to black skin as there’s a high risk of hypo pigmentation occurring
• The following contraindications apply:
  • Cancer
  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding.
  • Sun tan/use of sunbeds and fake tan
  • Healing disorders such as those caused by Diabetes Mellitus and lupus
  • History of Keloid scarring
  • Recent use of Roaccutane
  • Immune, lymphatic system disorders
  • If you are on certain medications that make you unsuitable for laser/IPL treatment. In this case, the client will be advised to come off the medication for several weeks before returning for the treatment.

Consultation procedure

• Prior to the treatment, you must first undergo a consultation where details about your medical history and lifestyle are obtained in order to confirm suitability.
• The procedure of the treatment, number of treatments, aftercare and end results will be explained and photographs were taken.
• Before proceeding, you will be asked to sign a consent form and undergo a test patch.
• The test patch will determine whether the treatment is suitable.

What steps are involved in the treatment?

• The skin is cleansed with a Laser cleanser.
• Any hair in the tattoo area is shaved.
• The Laser applicator is passed over the tattoo releasing quick pulses of light.
• An audible ‘click’ noise is heard as the ink particles shatter.
• After the treatment, a soothing lotion and light dressing is applied.
• A tinted Sun Protection cream is applied before you leave the clinic.

How long does the treatment take?

• Treatment time varies depending upon the size of the tattoo but generally, is between 10-30 minutes.

How does the treatment feel?

• Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a hot pin pick or the flick of an elastic band.
• Whilst uncomfortable most people tolerate the treatment well.
• Our ice cooler is used before, during and after the treatment.
• You have the option of using a local anaesthetic cream before the treatments to make the treatment pain free.

How many treatments are required?

• Efficacy of treatment is dependent upon the specific tattoo ink present and it is difficult to determine exactly what inks and colouring compounds have been used. Two similar colours may be composed of very different materials.
• Generally, professional tattoos are harder to remove as they are usually deeper in the dermis, are denser and may consist of multiple colouring agents.
• Amateur tattoos can be quick to remove, taking 1-6 treatments, whereas professional tattoos vary considerably and some can take up to 15 treatments.
• Efficacy also depends on the age of the tattoo.
• Sessions are spaced 6 to 10 weeks apart.
• At your consultation, the therapist will be able to give you a better indication of the number of treatments required.

Factors influencing Tattoo Removal

Successful removal depends on a number of factors.

• Is that Tattoo new or old? A very new tattoo is more difficult to remove because of the density of colours used.
• Professional Tattoo or Amateur. Professional Tattoos are more difficult to remove because the ink is deeper in the dermis.
• Colour of Tattoos: Single colour Tattoos are a lot easier to remove than Multi coloured Tattoos.
• Colour of Skin: The darker the skin the more difficult it is to remove a Tattoo because high energies cannot be used due to a risk of hyper or hypopigmentation.

Are there any possible side effects/Downtime?

• Short term side effects include excessive swelling, petechia, pinpoint bleeding, crusting and blistering.
• An initial whitening of the treated area is the first sign of a positive reaction.
• This blanched area will fade after approximately five to ten minutes, leaving the surrounding area red, raised and inflamed.
• Very rarely the skin may become lighter or darker, or a small blister may form. In most cases, this will resolve within a period of time.
• On very dark skin there is more likelihood of complications such as hyper or hypo pigmentation.

Is there any Aftercare/Homecare?

• Any blistering should be left to heal naturally (red tattoos tend to show more blistering).
• Client should use sun protection cream and avoid sun exposure on the treated area.
• Do not use bleaching creams or perfumed products on the area for 1 week after the treatment.
• If blistering or crusting occurs do not pick or scratch the treated area as this could result in scar tissue formation.
• Avoid very hot baths, showers, steam rooms, saunas for 24 hours.
• Keep the area clean and dry.
• If the area feels hot or swollen, the use of ice packs or aloe vera gel etc can improve client comfort and reduce erythema and swelling.
• If pin-point bleeding has occurred, the area can be covered with a paraffin gauze dressing to avoid contact with clothing. Crusting may develop after a few days and this should be left to heal naturally.