For most people tattoos are meant to last forever. But for others, a tattoo can go from being meaningful to something that they would rather not see again.
The good news is that modern laser technology means that laser tattoo removal can help you get rid of unwanted tattoos in a few short sessions.
If you’re considering having laser tattoo removal, one question you might be asking is: will tattoo removal leave a scar?
This is a question we get a lot at Zapp Laser Studio, and it is a valid concern to have.
After all, you want to say goodbye to a tattoo to see clear skin again, not a poor reminder of what once was.
The answer comes down to finding the right laser treatment, a reputable clinic, and an experienced practitioner. When you combine these three, the risk of scarring is very low.
We are here to help by breaking down how laser tattoo removal works, why following a proper aftercare routine is so important, and why the healing process is integral to stop scars from forming.
If you want to speak to one of our laser tattoo removal experts in-person, why not book an initial consultation to talk about tattoo removal in more depth.
Laser tattoo removal without scarring – it comes down to choosing the right laser technology
If you want to prevent tattoo removal scarring, finding the right laser device for your skin type and tattoo type is the most important step in your tattoo removal journey.
Many older tattoo removal systems rely on heat energy to break down tattoo ink particles, which can cause damage to the skin. This includes increased chances of pigment changes and scar tissue developing.
At Zapp Laser Studio, we use a more modern, leading laser technology – PicoSure laser.
This laser tattoo removal treatment is the most advanced system on the market for removing all types of tattoos, including tattoo ink colours that are often challenging to remove.
Why PicoSure is one of the best tattoo removal treatments
PicoSure laser treatment does not rely on heat energy to target and remove tattoo ink.
Instead, it uses ultra-short bursts of laser light energy at a fast rate (picoseconds). This creates a photo-mechanical effect that breaks tattoo ink down into much smaller ink particles.
Because the laser light energy only targets the tattoo ink, this means:
- Less risk of damaging surrounding healthy skin tissue
- The healing process is quicker compared to traditional laser devices
- There is no heat damage to the skin
- The risk of scarring is significantly reduced
PicoSure laser treatment is also effective at treating many different tattoo characteristics, such as:
- Amateur tattoos
- Red tattoos
- Removes all ink colours on the spectrum including white, yellow, and green
- Ink that sits on the surface and deep in the skin
If you have darker skin types, we also offer the PicoWay laser tattoo removal system at our London studio.
The PicoWay laser device is safe and effective on darker skin tones because it uses a 1064nm wavelength which bypasses the melanin in the skin and only targets the tattoo ink.
This means we can remove tattoos from all skin types safely, effectively, and without causing damage to the surrounding skin.
By using leading laser technology, our tattoo removal experts can ensure that we prevent scars from forming (as long as you follow our guidance).
How does laser tattoo removal work?
To help you understand how PicoSure laser tattoo removal can minimise the risk of scarring, it helps to know how the tattoo removal procedure works.
During your laser treatment, your practitioner will pass the laser device across the treatment area.
It fires ultra-short bursts of laser light energy directly into the tattoo ink. We will use different wavelengths and depths depending on your tattoo ink colours and type of tattoo.
You will need more than one tattoo removal session to fade or completely remove tattoos.
In the early sessions, we will target the ink deeper within the skin. In the later sessions, we will focus on tattoo ink that sits on the skin’s surface.
The PicoSure device shatters the tattoo ink into much smaller particles. This allows your body to flush them out naturally through the lymphatic system.
How many laser tattoo removal treatments will I need?
The number of laser tattoo removal sessions you will need depends on several factors such as tattoo type, location, size of the tattoo, and density of the ink.
How an individual’s skin reacts to treatment and how their skin heals, can also impact how many sessions they will need.
On average, our clients have:
- 2-6 laser tattoo removal sessions to fade a tattoo
- 6-10 laser sessions to completely remove a tattoo
Will tattoo removal hurt?
The honest answer is yes, laser tattoo removal can hurt. Sometimes as much or more than getting the tattoo in the first place.
It can feel like a rubber band constantly snapping against the skin. But the good news is that each laser removal session only lasts a few seconds or minutes (depending on your tattoo).
We do not use a numbing cream first as this can change the texture of the skin and make it harder to remove the tattoo, and even lead to skin reactions.
We do, however, use a cooling device on the treated area to keep your skin cool and comfortable throughout.
What is the healing process like with laser tattoo removal?
The healing process is the most important part of safe and effective laser tattoo removal.
After each treatment session, the treated area may look slightly red and you may have some mild swelling. It can feel very similar to having mild sunburn.
For the first 48 hours, we advise you to apply an ice pack or cold compress to the area to reduce any redness and swelling.
After 48 hours, you can apply a vitamin E or aloe vera gel to soothe and calm the skin.
If your skin develops small blisters or light scabs, you should keep the area clean and avoid exposing it to too much heat for a week.
Small blisters will pop by themselves in a few days, which will then dry out.
If you have larger blisters, you can apply a protective dressing until they heal. This will also stop the blisters rubbing on clothing. Do not rub or pick scabs.
Remember poor aftercare can lead to infection, pigmentation issues, and risk of scarring. Please always follow the aftercare provided by your expert practitioner.
Following proper aftercare after laser tattoo removal treatment
Looking after your skin and allowing it to heal after each treatment session is the best way to prevent scars from forming.
In the first 3-5 days you will likely have quite sensitive skin. Keep the treatment area clean and avoid strenuous exercise to stop any further irritation and swelling.
You should use mild soap and lukewarm water to wash and keep the area clean. Do not expose the treated area to hot water, including baths and hot tubs.
We would also advise not shaving the skin in that area until it is fully healed.
Other aftercare advice to help you skin heal and avoid scarring includes:
- Avoid direct sunlight
- For any sun exposure try to cover the treated area
- Always wear sunscreen (at least factor 50)
- Avoid tight clothing. Loose clothing will prevent friction
The verdict – will laser tattoo removal leave a scar?
Most people who undergo laser tattoo removal do not develop scars.
But you need to remember that as with any laser treatment, finding the right technology for your skin type, an experienced practitioner and following proper aftercare is key.
Compared to other methods of tattoo removal such as tattoo creams and surgical removal, laser tattoo removal is considered the safest and most effective way to get rid of unwanted ink.
Want to ask us a question about tattoo removal?
Laser tattoo removal is a simple process, but it takes time to see great results.
If you want to know more about how the process works, the results we can help you achieve, and how we can keep your skin safe and healthy during and after treatment, book an appointment chat with one of our laser experts.
It’s the best way to answer any questions you might have, and get all the information you need to make the right decision for you.