Laser Tattoo Removal: The Process

The tattoo removal process, especially laser tattoo removal, may seem like a standard procedure amongst tattoo removal studios everywhere, but that's not necessarily true.  Here at Erase Tattoo Removal we have a special process that we have developed and utilize daily to remove tattoos for patients. Here's the rundown on the what is really happening during the laser tattoo removal procedure:

1- Consultation usually comes first: Before jumping into any type of tattoo removal treatment process, consider your options.  There are a variety of different treatment options available for tattoo removal purposes and each one has its pros and cons.  Before choosing an options always schedule a consultation first.  When it comes to laser tattoo removal, your consultation will cover the laser being used, a briefing on the procedure itself, how it works, before and after care of the skin being treated, how many treatments the patient's tattoo will need, etc.  Make sure you ask plenty of questions so you can get the full grasp on everything you need to know regarding the procedure.

2- Prepping for the procedure: Before the procedure starts, the patient is prepped for the procedure. The prepping phase can vary depending on the tattoo removal studio.  Some studios will apply ice or a topical anesthetic cream to the area about to receive treatment. The patient is usually told to wear protective goggles or eye shields to protect their eyes during the procedure.  The laser emits a moderate to strong light, so goggles or protective eyewear are always recommended. The laser is typically tested on the patient's skin first before proceeding with the procedure.

3- What is really happening to the tattoo ink?: Upon the start of the procedure, a hand piece is placed against the skin and the laser light is activated. Once the laser is switched on it begins penetrating the patient's layers of skin, breaking up the ink particles.  Lasers remove tattoos by breaking up the pigment of the tattoo with a high-intensity light beam. Many patients say the firing of the laser feels like a rubber band being snapped against the skin.  As a tattoo removal studio, we strive to keep our patients comfortable during the procedure.  We use the Zimmer Chiller, which is a skin-cooling device that produces a stream of cold air to soothe the skin and provide relief during the procedure.

4- Aftercare following the procedure: Once the treatment is over most removal experts will apply ice to the area being treated by laser removal.  The patient will be asked to use a topical antibiotic cream and will be given dressings to cover the skin being treated.  Your chosen laser tattoo removal studio team will brief you on how to care for your skin following the procedure.  Aftercare is extremely important to helping the skin heal and to help avoid infection following the procedure.

The laser tattoo removal procedure is usually quite similar from one laser tattoo removal studio to another, but occasionally the procedure steps will vary.  If you are seeking laser tattoo removal, but would like to know more before undergoing the procedure, feel free to leave a comment below or contact us.