Laser Tattoo Removal

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Laser tattoo removal is safe and effective for all skin types and is ideal for individuals who:

• Want to remove or lighten a tattoo for a cover-up.
• Have unwanted, outdated, or regretful tattoos.
• Seek a safe and effective removal option with minimal risk of scarring.
• Have tattoos with stubborn ink colors that traditional lasers struggle to remove. The Enlighten laser targets a full spectrum of ink colors, including black, blue, red, and green, which are often resistant to older laser systems.

While laser tattoo removal is safe and effective for most people, some individuals may not be ideal candidates due to factors that could increase risks or impact results. Medical clearance may be required for certain conditions. Please consult with your healthcare provider if you are unsure. Precautions to consider: 

• Pregnancy.
• Patients who are undergoing treatment for skin cancer.
• Accutane - must wait at least 6 months.
• Gold Therapy - may cause blue-gray discoloration.
• Compromised skin (dermatitis, sunburn, open wounds or sores, infection) in the treatment area.
• Autoimmune conditions that affect skin healing (like lupus or active vitiligo) - consult with your healthcare provider first.  
• History of keloids or poor wound healing.
• Patients with pacemakers, internal defibrillators, or a history of seizure disorders should avoid laser tattoo removal, depending on the area being treated.

Results are gradual, as the body needs time to break down and eliminate the shattered ink particles. Most patients start to see fading after just one to two sessions, but full removal typically takes multiple treatments—usually between 5 to 10 sessions, depending on the tattoo’s size, ink color, and depth. Fading continues over several weeks after each session, with the most noticeable results appearing 8-12 weeks post-treatment as your immune system clears away the ink. Some factors, such as the location of the tattoo, your skin type, and overall health, can affect the speed of ink clearance.

The results of Enlighten laser tattoo removal are permanent once the ink particles are fully broken down and eliminated by the body. Unlike other cosmetic treatments that may require maintenance, tattoo removal is a one-time process—once the ink is gone, it does not return. However, some residual shadowing or mild skin textural changes can occasionally remain, but for most patients, the skin continues to improve over time.

With minimal downtime, most patients are able to resume their daily activities immediately. Mild redness and swelling are common for a few hours to a couple of days post-treatment. Some patients develop small blisters or scabs, which are a normal part of the healing process. These should be left to heal naturally to avoid scarring. The skin may feel sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn, for a few days post-treatment. To support healing, it’s important to follow post-care instructions.

Your treatment starts with a personalized consultation to evaluate your tattoo and skin type. Topical numbing cream may be applied to the treated area to ease any discomfort. This will stay on for approximately 20-30 minutes and be removed prior to treatment. Patients will wear protective eye wear during treatment. The process itself can be described as a rubber band snapping against the skin or small bursts of heat. A cooling system may be used to enhance comfort as the Enlighten™ laser delivers short bursts of energy to the tattooed area. Most sessions take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on tattoo size and complexity. 

• Avoid direct sun exposure, including tanning beds, and artificial tanning (spray tans, tanning lotions, etc.) for at least 2-4 weeks prior to treatment. Use SPF 30+ if sun exposure is unavoidable. Patients with any residual sun tan in the treatment area have a higher risk of pigmentation changes.
• If the tattoo is in a hairy area, shave the skin the night before your appointment.
• Avoid skin irritants (products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide or acne medications, vitamin C if strong or acidic, hydroquinone, AHAs/BHAs, astringents, depilatories, waxing, etc.) or any other exfoliating products in the treatment area for at least 1 week prior to each treatment.
• Avoid blood thinners (including fish oil and vitamin E), NSAIDs, photosensitizing drugs, and certain antibiotics for at least 1 week prior to each treatment as these may increase the risk of bruising or irritation. Consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing.

• Most people can return to their normal activities immediately, however, strenuous exercise, sweating, hot showers, excessive heat, and sauna use should be limited for at least 48 hours.
• Avoid direct sun exposure, including tanning beds, for 2-4 weeks following each treatment. Keep the area covered or apply a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 30+ to prevent hyperpigmentation.
• Avoid swimming, artificial tanning (spray tans, tanning lotions, etc.), and skin irritants (products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide or acne medications, vitamin C if strong or acidic, hydroquinone, AHAs/BHAs, astringents, depilatories, waxing, etc.) or any other exfoliating products in the treatment area for 1-2 weeks or until the skin is fully healed.
• Use a gentle antibiotic ointment or a soothing cream (like Aquaphor or Petroleum) to keep the area hydrated.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy lifestyle – A strong immune system speeds up ink clearance.