Laser Tattoo removal FAQs

Most people compare the sensation of having a tattoo lasered off as being similar to an elastic band being flicked against the skin.

In our experience laser tattoo removal is not as painful as having a tattoo done, so if you were brave enough to get a tattoo in the first place you should be fine getting it removed.

Our lasers are very fast so our tattoo removal usually lasts just a few minutes. At Fade Away we make every effort to make you as comfortable as possible during treatment and provide detailed instructions for aftercare.

Immediately after laser tattoo removal treatment the skin treated will feel hot and turn white. This generally fades very quickly and is completely normal. The area may feel tender and can be red and swollen for a couple of days but this is all part of the process of the skin healing. The tattoo ink will then gradually fade over the next few weeks.

Everybody is different and most side effects are minor and temporary. All of the following side effects are possible with any form of laser tattoo removal.

Temporary side effects can include:

• Localised swelling and bruising: which will feel like a minor sunburn.
• Blistering: this is part of the normal healing process and the skin will heal quickly, care must be taken not to pick or scratch the scab.
• Infection: with all treatments, there is a small risk of infection but this is very small and minimised with good hygiene.
• Scabbing: A scab can form over the treated area, it is important not to pick or scratch as this could impair healing.
• Hypopigmentation: Loss of skin colour may occur, but normal skin tone should return within 6-12 months. Very occasionally the hypopigmentation can be permanent or pigment will return in patches. Increased risk after multiple treatments and on darker skin colours.
• Hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the treated area, this is usually temporary and more common in darker skin types and people with a recent tan.
• Sunburn: After treatment, care must be taken to keep the area treated out of the sun, and when the area is not covered by clothing or a sterile bandage a high-factor sunscreen should be used.
• Lack of complete pigment removal: Some colours and inks do not respond to treatment, and traces of pigmentation may remain after treatment.
• Pin Prick Bleeding or weeping: This is normal and nothing to worry about.
• Allergic reaction: A possible allergic reaction to the tattoo dye as it is released into your system.

Some colours especially lighter colours have a chance of becoming darker when lasered. This is due to ingredients in certain ink colours carbonising. This darkening sometimes affects colours such as white, pink, and fluorescent and also lighter brown colours and red.