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A Complete Guide to Laser Tattoo Removal
So you’ve decided you want to get rid of a poor decision of your past and get that ugly tattoo removed. But where do you even begin? Laser tattoo removal is widely considered one of the most common and effective forms of eliminating an unwanted tattoo.
Here are a few points to help guide you through the process of getting an old tattoo removed
Before your Consultation:
Before you head into your consult with a licensed professional, be prepared to provide relevant information to your tattoo history. Knowing the age of the tattoo is important in determining how many sessions are necessary. Be prepared to provide your medical history, as it can be a factor in how well the sessions work and how many are necessary.
Possible Side Effects:
It’s important to consider possible side effects from laser tattoo removal in advance of going in for a treatment. While the side effects are minimal, one of the biggest side effects is the possibility of infection at the site of the laser, so be prepared to care for it by keeping the area clean, dry and covered.
It is possible to have a change in pigment in the skin where the laser light is concentrated. It can end up becoming darker or lighter, and certain medical conditions can make this more likely.
During your Consultation:
Your initial consult will be key in determining the best course of action for your laser tattoo removal. The tech will factor in the age of your tattoo, and your medical history to determine how many sessions will be required, and your first treatment will be scheduled.
The Process:
During your session, your will meet with your technician to go over any last minute concerns. From there you’ll be given protective eyewear before the tech tests a certain area of your skin to see how it reactions to the laser. This also helps them to dictate which laser will best work. The laser is then passed over the skin and the pigment absorbs the laser light beam. Smaller tattoos require fewer pulses of light while larger ones will require more.
Caring for the Site:
Following the session, it is important to keep the site of your laser treatment clean and bandaged. Because possible infection is one of the biggest risks of the laser tattoo removal, this is a very important step.
Repeat:
Very few tattoos are completely eliminated after one session, and follow up sessions are typically scheduled three weeks to six weeks apart. This time between sessions allows the body to remove pigments, and for some people it can take several sessions before the tattoo is completely removed.
Remember:
All tattoos are different, and each body is different, too. This means results can take longer from one person to the next. Healing time also varies, which is why it is so important to talk with your licensed technician throughout the process to make sure that you get the best results possible.
Consultations Available Now
Take the first step. Get your questions answered and find out which treatment option is best for your personal situation by meeting with one of our knowledgeable medical staff at Yaletown Laser Centre for an in-person consultation.
Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our experienced team members will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.
