Tattoo Removal

Tattoos seem to be like fashion. Sometimes they are in and other times they are not. Over the years it has become more commonplace for impulse tattoos, partially due to celebrities who have been getting tattoos on their bodies that symbolise different things to them. This has become a trend for a vast majority of the population as a sharp increase in people getting tattoos on their bodies has been happening all around the UK.

For a variety of reasons people want their tattoos removed. These can include regret, boredom, peer pressure, intoxication as well as others which leads a person to want to remove their tattoo as it is causing them a “mental pain” or embarrassment if the tattoo is in a very visible place. The “cure” for this is to either get a cover up done, or remove the tattoo in question completely.

This treatment is for you if:

> You wish you had never had a tattoo in the first place.

> You are looking to fade a tattoo for a new design.

> You need to remove a tattoo to help pursue your career.

Tattoos are of two main types: the Indian ink, amateur tattoo or the multi-coloured, professional tattoo. Single-colour tattoos usually respond best to laser tattoo removal. Multi-coloured, professional tattoos are much more difficult to eradicate completely. Black, blue, red and green colours in the tattoo respond best to treatment, but yellow and purple pigment can be more difficult. Green and red coloured tattoos will require different lasers for successful treatment.Your tattoo will be assessed, and, in the majority of cases, laser tattoo removal will be recommended.

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Whether you’ve decided on tattoo removal, or just have a question, our team of experts are here to help

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Cover up or Removal?

This does depend on a number of factors but the main ones are location, age and price. As tattoos seem to be a sort of “addiction” a cover up will most likely be used by somebody who has had a tattoo recently and is still in the “tattoo phase”.

This is usually a younger person that is looking at price as well because a cover up can often be a cheaper way to “remove” the tattoo that was causing the “pain“/embarrassment. However there is still ink inside the person’s body in the form of another tattoo and thus this can become a vicious cycle.

The best way to break free of the cycle and be at peace with yourself is to totally remove the tattoo that is causing you to feel the way you do.

FAQs

How does a tattoo removal laser work?

Active Q-Switched Lasers that generate a high powered beam of laser light in an extremely short pulse are the most suitable lasers for tattoo removal treatment. The very short pulse of high powered laser light is absorbed by the tattoo ink particles, breaking them down into smaller pieces, enabling your natural immune defences to absorb and disperse the ink. A gradual fading of the tattoo occurs over a series of treatments.

How does the skin look after treatment?

An instant whitening of the skin is seen after treatment, but this generally fades quickly. The area is likely to feel tender for a few hours and can be red and swollen for up to 48 hours. Some tattoos will form a graze which must be left to heal naturally. Initially the tattoo is unlikely to look any different but will fade over the next 4 to 8 weeks as the body disperses it.

Are there any side effects?

Very rarely the skin may become lighter or darker, or some blistering may form. Change to the skin texture and scarring is possible, though uncommon, and is more likely if any grazes or blistering is not left to heal naturally. There may be loss of the natural tanning ability in the area treated, which may improve with time.

How long does each session take?

Treatment time varies depending upon the size of the tattoo but generally is between 15-30 minutes.

How is the treatment carried out?

The skin will be cleaned and then the laser applicator is passed over the tattoo releasing quick pulses of light. An audible ‘clicking’ noise is often heard as the ink particles shatter. After treatment, a cold air and a light dressing may be applied. During treatment protective eyewear will be provided.

How does the treatment feel?

Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a hot pin prick or the flick of an elastic band. Whilst mildly uncomfortable, most people tolerate treatment well. A skin cooling device may be utilized to reduce any discomfort.

How many treatments are necessary?

This depends on several factors, including the density, colour of inks and the age of the tattoo. Amateur tattoos can be quick to remove, taking 1 to 6 treatments, whereas professional tattoos vary considerably, some can take up to 15 treatments but most will typically take 8 to 12 treatments. Treatment sessions are spaced 6 to 10 weeks apart.

Consultation Procedure

Prior to treatment you must first undergo a free consultation where details about your medical history are obtained in order to confirm suitability. Before proceeding you will be asked to give informed consent and a test patch will be carried out.