What should you know about laser tattoo removal?

Laser tattoo removal uses carefully selected light pulses to break tattoo pigment into smaller particles over a planned series of sessions. A clinician chooses the device and settings according to ink colour, depth, location, skin tone, and the tattoo's response.

The laser targets pigment while limiting exposure of surrounding skin. A picosecond laser delivers very short pulses that create a photoacoustic effect, while a Q-switched laser uses high-energy pulses selected for particular pigment wavelengths. Different inks may require different settings or devices. Some colours respond more readily than others, and complete clearing cannot be promised.

During consultation, disclose recent tanning, a history of abnormal scars, medicines, and any skin condition near the tattoo. Protect the area from sun before and after treatment as directed. The treated skin may feel hot, look red, swell, blister, or form a crust. Do not pick blisters or scabs; keep the area clean, use the recommended dressing, and return at the interval advised so the skin can recover.

Contact the treating clinic if pain or swelling is worsening rather than settling, redness spreads beyond the treated area, drainage becomes thick or foul-smelling, or you develop fever. Urgent assessment is appropriate for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a widespread allergic reaction after treatment.

Ask which wavelengths match your ink colours, how your skin tone affects settings, what changes are expected during healing, how to protect the area, and whether any pigment may remain.