Tattoo Removal: Does Laser Leave Scars? And Will It Remove Your Tattoo Completely?

How did you get into tattoo removal? And what is needed for this job?

It's been 15 years. Back then, we dealt with a lot of coverups and retouching. Previously, tattoos were ground out in medical facilities with a high-frequency “grinder“, but at that time I found out that laser devices for tattoo removal were being developed. So I researched and bought my first laser. I wanted to be one step ahead, not only dealing with tattoos, but also their removal or lightening for future retouching. Of course, we need a laser device for this, but also a hygiene permit and a lot of experience.

How is tattoo removal done? And how does the laser work?

It's similar to getting a tattoo. You sit in a chair, you get protective glasses, and we may use a numbing cream. After the tattoo is removed, the area is cooled with air or a cooling gel. The laser we use (Q switch ND yag laser – neodymium laser) works by firing its beam at intervals. It penetrates the skin to the pigment without damaging it or leaving scars, and when it comes into contact with the pigment, it explodes. The lymphatic system then carries it away. Healing then takes 6-8 weeks, when the body works to carry the pigment away. After about 2 months, we can continue.

What should the client prepare for before the procedure? Is it similar to before a tattoo?

The client should definitely not come under the influence of alcohol or other addictive substances. Pregnant women should also not come, if it comes to a tattoo on the stomach, as well as epileptics and oncology patients, who should discuss everything with their doctor. The client should definitely be calm, well-fed, and rested. It's actually similar to a tattoo.

Are there any risks, such as burns, etc.?

If someone uses other lasers, of course there is a risk of burns or scars. But you need to use the right laser that will not damage the skin or its pigmentation. A drop of blood may appear, if someone has thin skin, but it will heal and a small scab will form, which also helps remove the pigment. In that case, it is advisable to use healing creams like with tattoos. I recommend aloe vera cream to everyone, which is beneficial for the skin.

Can all tattoos be removed? Regardless of age, color, or location?

Yes. But the older the tattoo, or the amateurish one, the better it is removed. Professional tattoos require more sessions. Amateur tattoos or permanent makeup can be removed in 2-3 sessions. It also depends on the pigment, dark pigments are best removed, i.e. black, brown, etc. Pigments similar to the skin, such as orange/beige, are difficult to remove. Tattoos in critical places, such as the inside of the mouth, can be removed, the exception being the white of the eye, which simply cannot be removed.

Why do people seek laser? 

For example, if they have the names of their former counterparts written on them, or sometimes they just don't agree with the theme of the tattoo. A large group is also those who have their tattoos removed for work. Finally, there are many who want to re-tattoo an old tattoo, and the laser will help them lighten it.

Is it possible to remove a tattoo 100%? And do scars remain after the laser, for example?

Yes, it is possible, but it takes patience and time. Sometimes, when only a shadow of the original tattoo remains, it will even remove itself. Scars will not remain if the correct procedure is followed and an experienced specialist is chosen.

Is it possible that someone cannot (for example, for health reasons) undergo laser tattoo removal? And what should they do in such a case if they really want to remove the tattoo?

I would always recommend consulting a doctor. If there is a possibility that the health condition will improve, it is definitely worth waiting. However, there is an option to remove a tattoo without a laser. In medical facilities, excision can be performed under general anesthesia, but this leaves scars.

Source: casprozeny.cz