Treatments/Tattooing/Removal of Tattoo

A tattoo can be cherished forever, however for some they are seeking to have their tattoo removed. This may be because it has faded or has become illegible, or simply due to no longer liking the design.

At The London Scar Clinic we provide an effective method for tattoo removal. We use the Cynosure PicoSure® laser, a highly respected medical device seen as the gold standard for tattoo removal. This laser uses less heat than alternative devices and is often recognised as being less painful too.

The PicoSure laser is highly versatile and customisable ensuring the device can be used on Caucasian, Mediterranean and Light Asian skin types, and successfully removes most commonly used inks. Using the comprehensive range of setting, PicoSure can successfully remove even the deepest tattoo. The PicoSure laser can also be highly effective in reducing pigmentation, scarring and wrinkles.

During an initial consultation with an expert consultant, they will explore the treatment options available, and how many sessions will be required before preparing a personal care plan. Typically six to ten sessions are needed, and visible results after the third session. Every treatment, generally around 6-8 weeks apart to allow for healing, will go deeper into the skin and remove the layers of ink. The PicoSure laser is known for its ability to remove ink, including recalcitrant tattoos which are stubborn to eradicate.

During a laser tattoo removal session, the laser will break down the ink into small fragments that are so little they can be disposed naturally through the bloodstream. The laser stimulates an increase in blood flow too which helps the body to eliminate the ink particles as once the ink has been broken down, it is then transported out of the body by immune cells. This process contributes to the gradual fading and removal of the tattoo.

The PicoSure laser is very accurate, ensuring that only the tattooed area is affected during the treatment, and thus ensures the surrounding skin remains preserved. Following a laser session, you may see temporary redness or swelling, however this typically reduces within 24 hours.

Why should I consider laser tattoo removal?

Laser tattoo removal is recognised the most effective way to reduce / remove a tattoo. Using the gold standard PicoSure laser, which is both highly versatile and customisable, the laser can be used on most skin types to remove all the various ink colours.

Cosmetologist removing tattoo with laser device

What happens during tattoo treatment?

Initially the area to be treated is anesthetised using numbing cream. During a tattoo removal treatment, a laser is placed over the tattoo and breaks down the ink into small fragments that are so small, they can be disposed naturally through the bloodstream. This process contributes to the gradual fading and removal of the tattoo. Each session typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on the tattoo being treated. Following each treatment, the consultant will explain the skin care required to prevent scarring, and this may include applying aloe vera gel or Vaseline, and to avoid sun exposure for at least a week.

How many treatments do I need to see an improvement?

Removal of a tattoo using a laser typically takes place over six to ten sessions, with each session going deeper into the skin layer to break down the ink. Patient can expect visible improvements after three treatments.

Cosmetologist doing laser tattoo removal from woman hand

Will the tattoo be completely removed with laser treatment?

Completely removing a tattoo is dependent on the size of the tattoo, and how deep the ink has penetrated the skin. Following a series of laser treatments, the tattoo can significantly fade and thus making them less visible, however we are unable to guarantee the tattoo will completely disappear. In some instances, following tattoo removal, there may be a scar or an area of skin that appears slightly different in colour compared to the surrounding skin.

How much does it cost to have a tattoo removed?

The price for tattoo removal is dependent on the size of the tattoo, the density of the ink and the location on the body. Following your initial consultation with one of our skin specialists, you will receive a quotation detailing the options available to you.

Tattoos can be removed using laser irrespective of their age, however older tattoos are typically easier to remove than new tattoos, and therefore require fewer treatments.

Tattoo removal is nothing like the pain experienced when getting the tattoo done in the first place. Prior to any treatment, a numbing cream is applied to the area to be treated, but this may not penetrate deep into the skin so some pain, similar to the feeling of bad sunburn, may be experienced.

Yes, as the laser breaks down the tattoo ink before the body naturally disposes the fragments of ink.

Treatment Overview

  • Remove or reduce the appearance of unwanted tattoos
  • Treatment with the PicoSure laser, the gold standard laser for tattoo removal
  • Unique treatment pathway tailored to an individual’s specific needs
  • Treatment costs depend upon the size of the tattoo, the density of the ink and location on the body
  • Initial consultation with an expert consultant will help to determine the best treatment plan

 

"I had a skin graft 5 years ago and have been really self conscious about the skin colour difference of the graft skin. I found Rae online and from our first consultation I knew I was in safe hands. She has always been incredibly honest about the results I can expect and has constantly adapted to the particular way my skin has responded to the treatment. I'm so pleased that I decided on medical tattooing with Rae and already feel more complete and self confident, knowing that Rae will do all she can to meet my expectations, without promising unrealistic results. I wholeheartedly recommend Rae to anyone considering medical tattooing, she has been so supportive, considerate and understanding of my needs."

"Rae did an incredible job with medical tattooing a scar that had troubled me for some time. After being told by many that nothing could be done, Rae was confident she could help and it was a pleasant experience overall. Highly recommend."

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