In the past, getting a tattoo was often seen as a lifelong decision. Once it was on your skin, there was no turning back but that is no longer the case today. Whether you chose a design you later regretted or your tastes and priorities have simply changed, advances in technology have made it possible to safely remove these unwanted tattoos.

As a medical clinic with professional tattoo removal as one of our specialties, we hear a lot of questions from patients who are considering getting their tattoo removed. To help you make an informed decision, we have put together answers to questions we often hear from our patients, so you can better understand what the procedure involves and what to expect.

How much does laser tattoo removal cost?

This is usually the first question people ask when considering tattoo removal. The truth is, there isn’t “one size fits all” answer. The cost depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of your tattoo, the colours used and even its location on your body. Smaller tattoos are generally quicker and less expensive to treat, while larger or multi-coloured designs take more time and often require multiple sessions. The darker the colour, the quicker it is to remove as darker pigments absorb more laser light energy. This absorption helps break the pigment into smaller particles that can then be naturally cleared by the body.

Speaking of sessions, the number you’ll need follows the same principle. Most tattoos require anywhere from six to twelve treatments, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve noticeable fading or complete removal. Professional tattoos with dense or vibrant inks may take longer, and in addition, each person’s skin responds differently. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to schedule a consultation with a professional who can assess your tattoo and provide a tailored treatment plan.

How much does laser tattoo removal cost?

This is usually the first question people ask when considering tattoo removal. The truth is, there isn’t “one size fits all” answer. The cost depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of your tattoo, the colours used and even its location on your body. Smaller tattoos are generally quicker and less expensive to treat, while larger or multi-coloured designs take more time and often require multiple sessions. The darker the colour, the quicker it is to remove as darker pigments absorb more laser light energy. This absorption helps break the pigment into smaller particles that can then be naturally cleared by the body.

What does the removal process involve?

The procedure itself is fairly straightforward. During a session, a specialised laser emits short pulses of light that break down the ink particles in your skin. Your body’s natural immune system then gradually removes these fragments, causing the tattoo to fade over time. Each session is relatively quick as well, often lasting just a few minutes for smaller tattoos, though larger or more intricate designs may take longer.

Many people worry about discomfort and it’s normal to wonder whether it will hurt. Most describe the sensation as similar to snapping a rubber band against the skin. To make the treatment more comfortable, numbing cream is usually applied to the area beforehand which significantly reduces any pain. It’s also important to note that some areas of the body are more sensitive than others, but with the cream and the laser’s short pulses, most patients find the procedure tolerable.