Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal uses very short pulses of light to fragment tattoo ink so that the immune system can gradually clear it. Q-switched lasers deliver pulses in nanoseconds; picosecond lasers deliver them a thousand times faster, which can improve clearance of some inks in fewer sessions.

What is involved

• Sessions: multiple sessions are always required, typically spaced six to eight weeks apart to allow clearance between treatments. Professional tattoos generally need more sessions than amateur ones.
• Anaesthetic: topical anaesthetic or cooling; the treatment is uncomfortable.

What affects the result

Ink colour matters considerably. Black and dark blue respond best. Green, yellow and some light blues are difficult to remove and may not clear completely. White and flesh-toned inks can darken irreversibly on treatment because of a chemical change in the pigment. Depth, age of the tattoo, layering and cover-ups all affect outcome.

Risks and limitations

Expected effects include immediate whitening (frosting), swelling, blistering and crusting. Recognised risks include pigment change in the surrounding skin, incomplete clearance leaving a shadow, scarring, and allergic reaction to fragmented ink, which is uncommon but recognised particularly with red pigment.

Complete removal cannot be guaranteed for any tattoo. A realistic expectation is significant fading, with complete clearance more likely for simple black work.

Information on this page reflects NHS and British Association of Dermatologists patient guidance and current UK regulatory position. It is general information, not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for an individual assessment by a qualified clinician.