Q-Switched Lasers work by producing very short pulses of intense light that pass through the epidermis layer (top layers) of the skin to be selectively absorbed by the tattoo pigment laying in the dermis. This energy, measured in nanoseconds (ns) heats the particles rapidly which causes an explosive fragmentation of the collagen capsule and the ink/pigment. The process is known as the photoacoustic effect.

The laser light penetrates the particles breaking them down. These tiny fragments are then small enough to be recognised by the body as a foreign object and removed through the body’s own immune system over the next 4 to 12 weeks (although can still be for up to a year).

After the 4-to-12-week period, as long as the skin has fully healed the treatment can be repeated to remove further layers of pigment.

How many treatments are needed?

A series of treatments are usually always necessary for the tattoo to progressively fade. This can take anywhere between 3 and 20 treatments, depending on the colour, size and depth of the tattoo. Anti-bacterial ointments are used after the procedure and some continued skin care is necessary until the removal site heals completely. We recommend at least 6 weeks between treatments; however this will be assessed for each individual.

During the latter stages of treatment when only faded remains of the ink/pigment are still visible, we recommend to leave a minimum of 3 to 4 months between treatments.

Are results guaranteed?

There are many factors which can affect the results of successful treatments and complete removal is not always achievable. Clients should be given realistic expectations of treatment results, and complete removal of pigment can never be guaranteed.