Most common Tattoo FAQ's		Most common Piercing FAQ's		Most common Laser Removal FAQ's

Q: Why is a tattoo so difficult to remove?
A: A tattoo results when the skin is punctured and pigment is inserted into the lower layer of skin. The body’s own immune system reacts to this “injury” but is unable to cast out the larger particles of pigment.

Q: How do lasers work?
A: Tattoo particles are too large for the body’s immune system to remove naturally. By firing a beam of light through the skin in extremely short pulses the light is absorbed by the tattoo ink creating a reaction, which breaks it down into very small particles. The body’s immune system then gradually removes the pigment.

Q: How many treatments are required to remove a tattoo?
A: The number of treatments required will depend on the body’s immune system and how effective it is. As a guide, most Indian ink amateur tattoos require 2 to 4 treatment sessions at 6 weekly intervals. Most professional tattoos usually require 6—10 (for black/blue tattoos) 8– 15 for full colour tattoos at 6 weekly intervals.

Q: Do all tattoos respond to treatment?
A: Yes in most cases. No one laser can remove all types of tattoo ink so this is why we use 2 different lenses to ensure optimal results.

Q: How long does it take and does it hurt?
A: A typical treatment session can last between 5 minutes to 1 hour depending on the size of the tattoo. The treatment stings and may cause minor discomfort which will start to subside when the session is over. This is tolerated well by most patients but a anaesthetic cream is available if required.

Q: Are there any after-effects following treatment?
A: Redness and swelling may occur, which settles down within a few days. Some patients may blister. This is quite normal and does not indicate potential scarring. By applying pure aloe vera gel will help the healing process. Apart from that no specific treatment is required and it will usually clear within a few days. A dry dressing can be applied to avoid contact with clothes etc. When showering, the area should be patted dry and not rubbed. If blistering occurs, prolonged immersion in water should be avoided e.g. swimming or soaking in a bath, Jacuzzi, Sauna. Between treatment sessions the treated area should be protected from strong sunlight or sunbeds with sun block (SPF 30).

Q: Does the laser treatments scar?
A: Our lasers are Q-switched, which means the lasers deliver high power in a very short pulse (25 billionths of a second!). There is normally no lasting damage to the skin. Very occasionally, mild changes in skin texture may occur which over a period of time will subside.

Q: Will the skin be normal when treatment is finished?
A: During treatment, it is quite normal for the tattooed area to become paler and any freckles may disappear. This is because the lasers are also effective at removing natural skin pigments (depigmentation). Once all the treatments have been completed, the pigment should slowly return. This may take anything from 6 months to several years. A tattooed area which is particularly hairy should be shaved prior to treatment. The hair should grow back normally but in some cases may be slower than expected.

Q: Is laser treatment safe?
A: Yes. There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest that the treatment can lead to skin disorders or an increased risk of cancer. Furthermore, every precaution has been taken to ensure the safety of the patient. Patients are required to wear approved protective goggles at all times.