How Long Does It Take To Completely Remove A Tattoo?

When considering the removal of a tattoo, many factors come into play. The process involves the usage of specific types of lasers to target the tattooed area. As for the amount of time required for a complete removal to occur, that solely depends on the size and design of the tattoo, as well as the colors used, depth of the ink and the type of laser employed for usage.

It's noteworthy that our Laser Tattoo Removal London clinic is one of the only few clinics to possess the exclusive PiocoSure and PicoWay devices.

To achieve a completely removed tattoo, a series of treatment sessions are necessary. The typical range would be anything between 6 - 12 sessions, to be spaced about 8 - 12 weeks apart. However, some tattoos may necessitate more or less treatment sessions, based on its unique characteristics.

During the sessions, our highly specialized Picosecond lasers operate by fragmenting the tattoo ink particles into smaller fragments, which are then flushed out by the body's immune system over a period of time. The Pico lasers produce ultra-short pulses of energy, in the picosecond range, to break down the tattoo ink particles more effectively than traditional Q-switched lasers. With its high frequency of pulse delivery, measured at typically in the trillions per second, the Pico lasers are capable of targeting the tattoo ink particles with great precision and speed, making them much more effective in removing tattoos.

However, the number of sessions needed depends on the individual's skin type and immune system response, as well as the size and color of the tattoo itself. It's necessary that we highlight here that removing a tattoo completely is not always possible, and some residual scarring or skin discoloration may occur. In addition, the process of laser tattoo removal can be uncomfortable, and may require some downtime for healing.

How Much Will It Cost?

Factors to consider when assessing the cost of tattoo removal in the UK include the size, color, and body area of the tattoo, the number of sessions required, and the geographic location of the clinic. The overall cost of the procedure can range anywhere from £50 to £300 per session. Most clinics operate on a per-session pricing model, with the total cost depending on the number of sessions required.

Needless to say, the complexity of the tattoo and the patient’s skin type, among other factors, will determine the cost of treatment. For example, a small, simple tattoo may only require a few sessions, whereas a larger, more complex tattoo may necessitate ten or more sessions. It's important to point out that tattoo removal is not typically covered by NHS, so patients should factor this into their financial planning for the procedure.

It's vital that you select a reputable clinic with qualified and experienced practitioners and a history of numerous successful removals, to ensure a safe and effective treatment. Should you be interested in tattoo removal, we strongly recommend consulting with various clinics and obtaining price and outcome estimates.