How does laser tattoo removal work?
The Q-switched Nd Yag laser targets the tattoo ink below the skins surface and emits very short pulses of high intensity light to fragment the ink. As we pass over the tattoo with the laser a layer of ink is shattered into tiny particles. The ink is dissolved and then removed by your body's immune system during the healing period. After 8 to 12 weeks of healing/fading time we pass over the tattoo again, shattering another layer of ink.
Does it hurt?
Tattoo removal will hurt more than getting the ink put on, but the actual treatment will take a fraction of the time it took to get the tattoo. Usually treatments take no more than 10 minutes. Once the treatment is finished the pain should subside in about 2 minutes.
How much does it cost?
Pay as you go. Prices start at $90 per treatment and go up from there depending on size and number of tattoos you would like treated. Check out the PRICE page. Everyone receives 20% off the first treatment and after the 4th full price treatment the 5th is free!
What do you use for pain?
Before your treatment you will receive and ice pack to help numb the area. During your treatment we use a Cryo Zimmer, which is essentially an air conditioner that cools your skin during the laser treatment.
How many treatments does it take?
Removing a tattoo is a process that requires a series of treatments scheduled 8 to 12 weeks apart depending on the persons ability to heal. The age, location and quality of the tattoo and colours used combined with your bodies ability to dispose of the ink will determine the total number of treatments needed. For complete tattoo removal a minimum of 10 is recommended, for tattoos that will be covered up a minimum of 5 is recommended. Homemade tattoos can be removed in as little as 4 treatments.
Will my tattoo be completely removed?
In most cases tattoos are completely removed. The depth, density and colours are the biggest determining factors in full removal. Each treatment breaks down an additional layer of ink. As you progress into your treatments, more and more ink will be digested by your immune system.
Will I have a scar?
In order to remove a tattoo without scarring a Q-switched laser must be used. Q-switched means that the laser is pulsed so quickly that it dissolves the ink without destroying the live tissue in the process. Redness, swelling, blistering and scabbing may occur following the treatment but with proper aftercare it will heal and not cause scarring.
How can I get my tattoo to fade faster?
Your overall general health plays a big factor in your tattoo removal success. We strongly recommend your refrain from smoking, high alcohol and coffee consumption because these affect the bodies circulation, immune system and ability to remove the ink efficiently. Drinking lots of water, staying fit, eating healthy and supplementing with a multi- vitamin will all aid your body in the healing process.
What if I only want to lighten my tattoo to get it covered?
Choosing to have your tattoo lightened prior to a cover up will result in a much better quality cover up tattoo. Black ink is typically the hardest to cover and luckily can be easeir to remove. Fading the black will allow your artist the freedom to use brighter colours in your final tattoo.
Can I have only part of my tattoo removed?
Yes. Often times there is just a portion of a tattoo that you want removed and / or covered, and we can target just those portions of your tattoo.
Is the laser treatment safe?
Q-switched laser tattoo removal is the safest and most effective method of tattoo removal. Our technician is fully insured and certified with the latest laser tattoo removal standards and safety protocols.
What should I do before my treatment?
Before your laser tattoo removal treatment make sure you wash and clean the skin , shave and avoid using any lotions or ointments and stay out of the sun!
What is involved in aftercare?
Aftercare is extremely important for proper healing and ink digestion. You will receive complete aftercare instructions and a take home care sheet following your treatment.