Laser Face Lift
A non-surgical combination of resurfacing and tightening for early facial ageing.
Laser Tattoo Removal
Overview
Tattoo removal uses very short laser pulses to shatter ink particles into fragments small enough for the body to clear. The number of sessions depends on ink colour, density, depth and how long the tattoo has been there — black and dark blue clear most readily, while green, yellow and some cosmetic pigments are considerably more stubborn.
Benefits of this treatment
Treats tattoos of any age
Older, faded tattoos and newer, vibrant ones can both be treated, though they respond at different rates.
No surgery or incisions
A non-invasive alternative to surgical excision, which leaves a scar.
Short sessions
Most sessions take well under 30 minutes even for larger tattoos.
Minimal disruption to surrounding skin
Modern picosecond and Q-switched lasers target ink specifically, sparing the surrounding tissue.
How the procedure is performed
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1
10 minutes
Assessment
Ink colour, density and depth are assessed to estimate the likely number of sessions.
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2
10 minutes
Test spot
A small patch may be treated first to confirm how your skin and ink respond.
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3
5–30 minutes depending on size
Laser treatment
The laser passes over the tattoo, shattering ink particles into fragments small enough for the body to clear naturally.
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4
5 minutes
Aftercare
A cooling gel and dressing are applied, with instructions for the following days.
Recovery and aftercare
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Immediately after
Frosting
The tattoo temporarily turns white (“frosting”) as gases release from the ink — this settles within 20–30 minutes.
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Days 1–3
Redness and swelling
Similar to a mild burn; the area is kept covered and protected.
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Days 4–14
Scabbing and fading
Light scabbing may form and shed, taking some ink with it — picking at it should be avoided.
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Weeks 6–8
Ready for next session
The skin fully heals and ink continues to fade before the next treatment.
Risks and side effects
Temporary skin lightening or darkening
Pigment changes around the treated area are common and usually resolve over months.
Incomplete clearance
Certain ink colours and professional tattoos with dense ink can require many more sessions than amateur tattoos.
Scarring
Uncommon with correct technique and aftercare, but a risk of picking at scabs or incorrect settings.
Rarer complications
- Blistering — Can occur if settings are too aggressive for the skin type — a reason patch testing and gradual escalation matter.
- Allergic reaction — Rarely, breaking down certain ink pigments can trigger a reaction — discussed as part of assessment.
What it costs
What affects the price
Tattoo size
Larger tattoos take longer per session and cost more than small ones.
Ink colours
Multi-coloured tattoos, especially with green or yellow ink, need more sessions than simple black tattoos.
Number of sessions
A full removal course (often 6–12 sessions) is usually quoted as a package.
Frequently asked questions
This varies widely with ink colour, density and depth — anywhere from 6 to 12 or more sessions, spaced 6–8 weeks apart.
Most describe it as a rubber band snapping against the skin; cooling is used throughout for comfort.
Black ink responds best. Green, yellow and some cosmetic tattoo pigments are more resistant and may never fully clear.
Scarring is uncommon with correct technique, but the skin may show some texture change, particularly with older or amateur tattoos that were applied more traumatically.
Related
Treatments patients also consider
Laser Acne Treatment
Light and laser treatment for active inflammatory acne, alongside medical management.
Pigmentation Treatment
Comprehensive assessment and treatment planning for all forms of facial and body pigmentation.
Laser for Non-Healing Wounds
Low-level laser therapy as an adjunct in the management of chronic, slow-healing wounds.
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Next step
Considering Laser Tattoo Removal?
Book a consultation and get a straight answer on whether this is right for you, what it involves, and what it will cost. No obligation to proceed.
- A private, unhurried assessment with the surgeon
- An honest view of what is realistically achievable
- A written quote with no hidden costs
- Complete confidentiality