Want to Remove Your Tattoo? Here’s the Laser Solution

Tattoos have long been a form of self-expression, but many people eventually choose to have them removed due to changing personal tastes, life circumstances, or a desire for a fresh start. As tattoo removal becomes more common in aesthetics, it’s important to understand how the process works.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most popular and effective method of tattoo removal: laser treatments. We’ll delve into the science behind how lasers break down tattoo ink particles, the factors that affect the success of the removal process, and what to expect before, during, and after treatment. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how tattoo removal works and what to consider when deciding if it’s the right option for you.

How Laser Tattoo Removal Works

Laser tattoo removal is widely regarded as the gold standard for removing unwanted tattoos. This method uses high-intensity light beams to target and break down ink particles in the skin. Here’s how the process typically works:

Laser Selection

Different lasers are used for specific ink colors, as different wavelengths of light are absorbed by various pigments. For example, black ink absorbs all laser wavelengths, making it the easiest to remove. In contrast, colors like green and blue may require specialized lasers for effective treatment.

Both PicoSure™ and Picoway® utilize advanced laser technology for tattoo removal. Their PressureWave™ and PicoSecond® technologies deliver ultra-short light pulses that break ink particles into tiny fragments.

These fragments are then naturally eliminated from the body. With repeated treatments, the tattoo can fade significantly and may even disappear completely.

Light Absorption and Fragmentation

During the procedure, the laser emits short bursts of light that penetrate the skin. The ink particles absorb these light pulses, causing them to heat up and break apart into smaller fragments. This fragmentation is key because it allows the body to eliminate the ink more effectively.

Body’s Natural Removal Process

Once the ink particles are fragmented, the body’s immune system kicks in. White blood cells help transport the shattered ink particles through the lymphatic system, gradually fading the tattoo over time.

Key Factors Influencing Laser Tattoo Removal Effectiveness

Laser tattoo removal is highly effective, but several factors can affect its success and efficiency. Understanding these factors can help set realistic expectations and optimize results. Here are the key considerations:

• Ink Color: Darker colors like black are easier to remove than lighter ones.
• Ink Depth: The depth at which the ink is placed in the skin impacts the number of treatments required.
• Skin Type: Skin tone affects both treatment effectiveness and the risk of side effects.
• Professional Expertise: The experience and skill of the laser technician can significantly influence the outcome of the treatment.

How does tattoo ink affect the removal process? 

To understand how tattoo removal works, it’s crucial to first know the composition of tattoo ink and how it interacts with your skin. Tattoo ink consists of pigments suspended in a carrier solution, with the pigments varying widely in color and composition. When a tattoo is applied, the ink is deposited into the dermis—the second layer of skin—where it can remain for years, or even decades.

Tattoo removal can be challenging because the ink particles are often large and made up of various substances, including organic and inorganic materials. This complexity impacts the removal process, with factors such as ink color, depth, and skin characteristics playing significant roles in determining how successful the procedure will be.

What to Expect During a Tattoo Removal Session

Before undergoing a tattoo removal procedure, it’s important to understand what to expect, so you can prepare properly and alleviate any concerns. Here’s a breakdown of a typical laser tattoo removal session:

Consultation

Prior to the treatment, a consultation with a qualified practitioner is essential. During this session, the condition of your tattoo will be assessed, your medical history will be discussed, and the most suitable laser for your skin type and tattoo pigments will be selected.

Preparation

On the day of the session, the area surrounding the tattoo will be cleaned, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort. Depending on your pain tolerance and the location of the tattoo, some clinics may offer numbing injections for enhanced relief.

The Procedure

Once prepared, the practitioner will use the selected laser to target the tattoo. You’ll be provided with protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light. 

During the procedure, you may feel a sharp, intense sensation, similar to quick pinpricks or bursts of heat on your skin. While it can be momentarily uncomfortable, our team ensures your experience is as smooth as possible by applying topical numbing creams and using a cool air Zimmer device for added relief. 

Sessions typically last between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the tattoo’s size and complexity.

Post-Treatment Care

Immediately after the session, the treated area may appear red and swollen, similar to sunburn. The practitioner will provide specific aftercare instructions, typically involving keeping the area clean, applying a healing ointment, and avoiding direct sunlight or swimming for a few weeks. It’s also important to avoid picking at any scabs or blisters that may form, as this can lead to scarring or infection.

Is tattoo removal painful?

Many people wonder about the pain associated with laser tattoo removal. While the experience can vary from person to person, most describe the sensation as a sharp, intense feeling rather than a dull ache. Factors such as the size, color, and location of the tattoo, as well as your individual pain tolerance, can influence how the procedure feels.

At Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre, we follow a strict protocol to minimize discomfort. Topical numbing cream is always applied before the procedure, and we use advanced pain management techniques, including the cool air Zimmer device, to ensure a more comfortable experience. Additionally, advancements in laser technology have made the process more efficient and tolerable.

It’s important to remember that the pain from tattoo removal is temporary and manageable. For most people, the long-term benefits of achieving clear skin far outweigh the short-term discomfort of the treatment.

Where does the ink go after tattoo removal?

A common question is what happens to the ink during laser tattoo removal. Once the laser breaks down the ink particles into smaller fragments, your body’s immune system takes over. White blood cells, called macrophages, engulf the ink particles and carry them through the lymphatic system. Eventually, the particles are filtered out of your body by the liver and kidneys.

Tattoo removal typically requires several sessions, and while complete removal may not always be possible, the tattoo will gradually lighten and become less noticeable with each treatment.

Experience Professional Tattoo Removal at Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre

At Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre, we specialize in advanced laser tattoo removal treatments using the cutting-edge Picoway® system. This state-of-the-art technology ensures precise and effective removal while minimizing discomfort and downtime. Our skilled professionals are dedicated to delivering optimal results tailored to your unique needs.

Ready to remove your tattoo? Contact Vancouver Laser today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our Picoway® laser technology can help you achieve clear, radiant skin.