QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
WHAT IS LASER TATTOO REMOVAL?
Laser tattoo removal is a popular, non-invasive method to remove unwanted tattoos. This technique utilizes advanced laser technology to break down tattoo ink particles embedded in the skin. The laser emits short, intense pulses of light that are absorbed by the ink, causing it to fragment into smaller particles. These particles are then naturally eliminated by the body's lymphatic system over time.
Laser tattoo removal is known for its effectiveness and safety, offering a solution for those seeking to erase tattoos with minimal risk of scarring. The number of sessions required for complete removal varies depending on factors like the size, color, location, and age of the tattoo. It's a versatile treatment, effective on a wide range of ink colors and suitable for all skin types.
As a leading method in the cosmetic and dermatological field, laser tattoo removal has evolved with advancements in laser technology, ensuring more efficient and comfortable treatments. Always consult with a qualified professional to understand the best approach for your specific tattoo removal needs.
HOW DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL WORK
Understanding the science behind this process can help you feel more comfortable and informed about your tattoo removal journey. Here's how it works:
Precision Targeting: Lasers work by use high intensity beams of light to target the tattoo ink beneath the skin.
This process is highly selective, ensuring that the surrounding skin remains unharmed. Different ink colors absorb specific laser wavelengths more effectively, which is why we adjust our lasers to suit the unique colors in your tattoo.
Fragmentation of Ink: When the laser light penetrates the skin, it's absorbed by the tattoo ink. This absorption causes the ink particles to rapidly heat up, leading to their fragmentation into smaller pieces. Think of it as breaking down a large rock into smaller, more manageable pebbles.
Natural Elimination: Your body's immune system then kicks in. White blood cells and the lymphatic system work together to gradually flush away these ink fragments. This process isn't immediate-it takes place over several weeks, making patience a key component of laser tattoo removal.
IS LASER TATTOO REMOVAL PAINFUL?
Laser tattoo removal is definitely spicy, this is why we recommend and encourage all our clients to use numbing cream.
There is currently multiple numbing creams on the market, but if you are unsure, we can write you a personalise script in the studio to take to the pharmacy or if your looking for an off the shelf numbing cream we recommend Numit or Emla available at the chemist.
Haze of Ink also offers ice packs and the use of a cooling machine durning your treatment.
WHO MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
The number of sessions needed for laser tattoo removal varies significantly based on several key factors. Each individual and tattoo is unique, making a personalized consultation essential for an accurate estimate. Generally, patients can expect multiple sessions, typically ranging from 6 to 14
The primary factors influencing the number of sessions include:
Tattoo Size and Complexity: Larger, more complex tattoos require more sessions compared to smaller, simpler designs.
Ink Color: Certain ink colors are more challenging to remove. Black and dark blue inks respond well to laser treatments, while lighter colors like yellow and green may require additional sessions.
Tattoo Age: Older tattoos tend to fade naturally over time, potentially reducing the number of sessions needed.
Skin Type: Your skin type can influence the treatment process and the number of sessions required for optimal results.
Ink Depth and Density: Tattoos with deeply embedded or dense ink might need more sessions for complete removal.
Body Location: Tattoos located on areas with a higher blood flow, such as the chest, respond more effectively to laser treatment compared to those on extremities.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND AFFECTS
While laser tattoo removal is generally safe, especially when performed by a qualified technician, it's important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. In Western Australia, stringent regulations set by the Radiological Council ensure that only practitioners with the correct qualifications and specific licenses can operate laser equipment for tattoo removal. Performing this procedure without proper authorization is illegal, as it's classified as a medical procedure.
Despite these precautions, as with any medical treatment, there are potential risks and side effects associated with laser tattoo removal, including:
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation Hypopigmentation
Scarringing
Allergic Reaction
Blistering
Swelling and Bruising
Petechiae (Pinpoint Bleeding)
Erythema (Redness)
To minimize these risks, it's crucial to choose a certified and experienced laser tattoo removal specialist. A professional can provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure safe and effective healing. Always consult with a licensed practitioner to understand the specific risks associated with your skin type and tattoo.
CAN WE REMOVAL ALL COLOURS?
Yes, the team at Haze of Ink use the advanced technology of pico lasers, we can effectively target and remove all tattoo colors. Pico lasers are the latest innovation in laser tattoo removal, renowned for their precision and effectiveness. They operate by delivering ultra-short pulses of energy to the skin, which helps break down the tattoo ink into tiny particles that the body can naturally eliminate.
One of the key advantages of pico lasers is their versatility in emitting various wavelengths. This feature is crucial because different ink colors absorb different wavelengths of light. By adjusting the laser to specific wavelengths, we can effectively target and remove a wide range of colors, from the common black and dark blue to more challenging hues like red, orange, yellow, and even light green and sky blue.
The pico laser's ability to switch between wavelengths ensures a more comprehensive and efficient tattoo removal process, regardless of the color palette of your tattoo. It's important to consult with a professional who has experience with pico laser technology to understand how effectively your specific tattoo colors can be removed and to tailor a treatment plan to your needs.
HOW LONG DO I WAIT BETWEEN TREATMENTS
The industry standard is 6 weeks but waiting 10-12 weeks between treatments has been shown more beneficial
