How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

Do you have a tattoo that you got inked in your late teens or early twenties that you’ve come to regret?  If yes, laser tattoo removal can erase it for you.  Laser tattoo removal uses laser technology to extract tattoo ink and fade unwanted tattoos.  But how does laser tattoo removal work?

laser tattoo removal

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

The laser emits light energy that penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the tattoo ink particles in the dermal layer.  The heat generated shatters the ink particles into tiny fragments.  The microscopic particles are processed and removed by the body’s immune system over the following weeks.  

The tattoo gradually becomes lighter as the ink particles are flushed from the area, revealing clearer skin where the ink once was.

Multi-colored tattoos can be challenging to remove, as each color penetrates the skin at a different depth.   Because of this, some colors in the tattoo will fade faster than others.

Laser Technology Used For Tattoo Removal

There are various technologies now available for laser tattoo removal, but clients should understand that not all lasers are the same.  Above all, the type of laser used influences the quality of the results.  

The Enlighten laser is one of the most effective tattoo removal lasers on the market. 

What Is The Enlighten Laser?

The Enlighten laser by Cutera is an industry-leading device for tattoo removal because it is safe, fast, and efficient. 

The Enlighten laser is an advanced tattoo removal technology that features three wavelengths – 532 nm, 1064 nm, and 670 nm.  The different wavelengths of energy make Enlighten a versatile solution, as it can target the full spectrum of tattoo colors and a range of skin types. 

Enlighten uses the latest generation picosecond technology to fade tattoos.   It works more efficiently and removes tattoos faster than older technologies, so treatment times are shorter. 

How Many Laser Tattoo Removal Treatments Will I Need?

It takes several treatments to completely fade a tattoo as the laser energy breaks down the ink particles gradually.  More particles are broken down at each session until the tattoo fades from view.  It can take anywhere from 6-8 sessions to remove a tattoo.  Sessions are generally spaced 4-6 weeks apart.  Therefore, the entire tattoo removal process can take up to one year. 

The speed at which a tattoo clears depends on several factors including, the location of the tattoo, tattoo color, tattoo age, and the depth of the ink.   Consequently, the number of treatments needed won’t be the same for every patient, as treatment is customized based on skin type and tattoo colors. 

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Laser tattoo removal does involve some level of discomfort.  However, most patients say that removing a tattoo is less painful than having it applied. 

Are There Any Side-Effects?

Side-effects after laser tattoo removal are mild and typically include tenderness, blistering, redness, and swelling.   These side-effects should subside within a few days of treatment.

Choosing A Provider For Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal is a medical procedure that should ideally be performed by an experienced specialist at a reputable laser clinic.  It’s also essential to determine the type of laser the provider will use to perform your laser tattoo removal treatment.  Clients should always choose a clinic that uses an efficient and effective laser system like Enlighten.  

Be sure to avoid inexperienced laser technicians or clinics that use outdated laser systems.

Are you ready to part with that tattoo you got on a whim?  Laser tattoo removal can erase it so that you can once again enjoy ink-free skin.

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