Professional tattoos typically require 6 or more treatments, whereas amateur or traumatic blue-black tattoos may only need 1 to 2 sessions and coloured tattoos can take many more sessions.

Studies have shown that 85% of amateur tattoos can be completely removed after just three treatment sessions. Professional tattoos take longer with 70% removed by 6 treatments. More treatment sessions in both tattoo types will result in further clearances. Tattoo removal treatments are usually scheduled at 6 to 8 week intervals.

Tattoo removal isn’t painful, each laser pulse has been likened to that of an elastic band hitting the skin. Immediately after treatment, there may be swelling, bruising or crusting and scabbing, which can last up to 2 weeks. Some of the tattoo pigment is lost during this scabbing process.

Following laser tattoo removal, you should avoid:

• Swimming or using spas, saunas or hot tubs into the scab has dropped off as this may slow the healing process
• Strenuous exercise or physical activities for a couple of days following treatment
• Using soap or perfumed products on the treatment area for the first 48 hours following treatment
• Picking or scratching the scab
• Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least a week following treatment

Laser tattoo removal is a generally safe procedure, however some possible risks include:

• the tattoo not completely fading as some ink colours, such as yellow, green and purple, require more sessions to treat
• your skin may temporarily become darker or paler
• there is a slight chance of scarring

It can take multiple sessions to remove your tattoo, averaging between 6-8 treatments which are spaced out in 6-8 week intervals.