What is laser tattoo removal?
A medical procedure that utilizes laser energy to break down the tattoo pigments in the skin allowing the body to remove them naturally.
How does the laser remove tattoo pigments?
- Lasers emit specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the tattoo ink particles.
- The absorbed light energy will have 2 effects on the tattoo ink particles:
- Selective photothermolysis effect: The absorbed light energy converts into heat, causing the ink particles to heat up and fragment.
- Photoacoustic effect: Laser’s high-energy pulses will be converted into sound waves that break down the ink into smaller pieces.
- The body’s immune system will then remove these fragmented ink particles leading to a gradual fading of the tattoo.
Which laser system do we use?
There are many laser systems available for safe and effective tattoo removal. Our clinic uses the StarWalker MaQX laser, a state-of-the-art device that stands out due to its advanced technology. What sets this system apart is its combination of nanosecond and picosecond laser pulses, delivered at multiple wavelengths. This makes it highly effective for removing complex, multi-coloured tattoos.
Additionally, the StarWalker MaQX features FracTat™ technology, which delivers precise photomechanical energy to the skin. This innovation enhances the breakdown of tattoo pigments, enabling faster, more efficient removal and fewer treatment sessions compared to conventional lasers.
Factors affecting the effectiveness of laser tattoo removal:
- Types of tattoo:
- Amateur tattoos, with their superficial and uneven monochromatic ink, typically respond well to laser treatment with minimal complications.
- Professional tattoos use a variety of deeply embedded pigments, making complete removal more challenging and requiring very careful laser selection.
- Size of the tattoo:
Larger tattoo areas typically require more sessions to achieve complete removal due to the greater volume of pigment.
- Age of the tattoo:
Older tattoos are often harder to remove because the size, depth, and shape of pigment granules can change over time, making them less responsive to laser treatment.
- Depth of the tattoo pigment:
Deeper tattoo pigments require more treatment sessions for effective removal, as the laser energy must penetrate further into the skin.
- Colour of the tattoo pigment:
Multi-coloured tattoos, especially those with green or blue pigments, are more difficult to remove due to their resistance to standard laser wavelengths.
- Skin type of the patient:
Darker skin types which contain more melanin can interfere with laser penetration, making it more difficult to reach the tattoo pigment effectively.
- Site of tattoo:
Tattoos located on distal areas of the body, where lymphatic circulation is poorer, tend to respond more slowly to laser removal.
Interval: 4–6 weeks
Number of sessions: Multiple sessions needed, usually 5–10 sessions for amateur tattoos and 15–25 sessions for professional tattoos depending on the size, site and colour of the tattoo.
Results: Gradual fading of tattoo can be observed after each laser session. However, complete removal of the tattoo might not happen in all cases, especially those with lighter colors (green or blue) or professional tattoos with deep, dense ink may leave behind faint traces even after multiple sessions. Outcomes are significantly improved with our advanced laser systems like the StarWalker MaQX.
Downtime:
- Redness and swelling on the treated area for 3–5 days followed by scabbing which typically heals within a week
- Temporary skin discoloration (lightening or darkening) will improve with time
- Mild discomfort on the treated site similar to a sunburn sensation
- Mild itchiness sensation might be present as the treated site heals
Complications:
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation
- Scarring
- Patchiness due to incomplete tattoo removal
Pre-procedure:
- Photo documentation
- Apply numbing cream: 30–40 mins
- Obtain written consent
- Pre-cooling on treatment site for 5 mins before starting procedure
Post-procedure:
- Post-procedure cooling on the treatment area for 5–10 mins
- Apply topical antibiotic cream on the treated area
- Apply skin barrier cream
Post-tattoo care:
- Do not rub the treated area; gently wash and keep the area clean and dry.
- Apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection, and barrier cream to improve healing.
- Consider covering the tattoo with a clean, non-stick bandage for the first 24–48 hours, if needed.
- Avoid sun exposure; keep the treated area away from direct sunlight.
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50 when the skin has healed.
- Do not pick or scratch the scabs; allow the skin to heal naturally.
- Refrain from hot showers, saunas, or intense workouts for 24–48 hours.
- Avoid friction and consider wearing loose-fitting clothing over the treated area.
- Watch for signs of infection: severe pain, excessive swelling and redness, fever, and pus discharge.
Price: $800 per part (2 cm × 2 cm)
