The Beauty Society

Dermatologists recognise the medical efficacy of Q-switched laser for tattoo removal. It gives very reliable results with very little risk of side effects.

Denham Patient's Guide

High Wycombe Patient's Guide

How does Laser work?

A powerful laser beam is emitted onto the tattoo in a very short pulse. This light penetrates the ink particles and not the surrounding skin, therefore there is no damage to the skin. The laser can break down the ink and it can be disperses through the body, broken down and eliminated in a natural way. Over time the tattoo will begin to fade. Varying colours can be successfully dealt with, your physician will be able to advise on this.

How is treatment carried out?

Your physician will provide you with goggles to protect your eyes. You should not require any anaesthetic cream but it can be applied if necessary. The treatment is carried out in synchronisation with an air cooling device to ease any discomfort. After treatment a soothing anti-inflammatory cream will be applied.

How does treatment feel?

Most patients describe the sensation as an elastic pain snapping on the skin.

How will the skin look after treatment?
The skin may appear quite white immediately after treatment, but this usually disappears quite quickly. The area may feel quite tender for a few hours, and may look a little red with some mild inflammation for next 48 hours. Sometimes a scab may form but this must be left to heal naturally (no picking!). The body continues to eliminate the ink particles over the coming weeks and the tattoo begins to fade.

Is it safe?

Rarely pigmentation changes can occur. It is possible to see a change in skin texture, especially if scabs are not left to heal naturally. In very rare cases the skin may become lighter or darker, or a blister may form which again must be left to heal naturally.

How many treatments?

This will vary from case to case and on factors to do with the tattoo. Amateur tattoos can be removed quite quickly perhaps 2-6 treatments. Professional tattoos can take up to 15 treatments. Your physician will be able to provide a more accurate estimate upon consultation.

How long does each treatment take?

Treatments can take from 10-40 minutes depending on size, colour and complexity. Treatments are to be performed about 8 weeks apart. The sun must be avoided before and after treatment. A strong sunblock can be used.