Getting a tattoo might feel like a great idea at the time. But fast-forward a few years later and that same tattoo does mean what it used to.
Maybe you are thinking about removing your unwanted tattoo with laser tattoo removal because it no longer suits your style, the artwork has faded, it is linked to an ex, or you want a fresh start.
Whatever your reason, laser treatment for tattoo removal is one of the safest and most effective methods to fully remove tattoos or fade them for a cover up.
One of the biggest questions we get asked at the start of every tattoo removal journey is: how much does laser tattoo removal generally cost?
Yes, it does cost more than using other methods such as tattoo removal creams. But those methods do not provide consistent results and often cause damage to the skin, including scarring.
To help you understand the cost of laser tattoo removal treatment, we break down how the advanced technology works. We will also talk about the factors that influence the cost, and of course, the results.
If you want to chat in-person, why not book an initial consultation and patch test today at one of our studios.
What is laser tattoo removal?
Let’s start at the beginning by explaining what laser tattoo removal is and what it does.
Laser tattoo removal is a gold standard laser treatment to remove unwanted tattoos from the skin.
It uses ultra-short bursts of laser light energy to break down tattoo ink into much smaller particles. The tiny particles are then flushed out naturally through your body’s immune system.
Unlike chemical peels or tattoo removal creams, which do not reach the deeper layers of ink in the skin, laser light targets all ink particles, at every level.
This means the removal process is far more successful and results are more consistent.
The right laser technology makes all the difference
Not all laser tattoo removal treatments are created equally.
It is important that you choose the right laser technology for your skin type and tattoo type.
At Zapp Laser Studio, you will benefit from the use of advanced laser technology, which includes:
PicoSure laser treatment – PicoSure is one of the most precise and powerful lasers for removing dark ink and coloured inks. In fact, it successfully removes all colours on the spectrum.
PicoWay – We offer PicoWay laser treatment at our London studio. It is just as precise as PicoSure in breaking all types of tattoo ink, but with the added benefit of being suitable for darker skin tones.
During your consultation, our tattoo removal experts will talk to you about both pico lasers.
We will also assess your tattoo, skin type and medical history to build a personalised treatment plan that will deliver optimal results.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
The good news about laser tattoo removal is that each removal session is simple and straightforward.
We will pass the laser device across the treatment area, which sends ultra-short bursts of laser light energy directly into the tattoo ink.
Because pico lasers focus on the tattoo ink instead of your skin pigment, there is no damage to the healthy surrounding skin.
The laser breaks down the tattoo ink into tiny particles. After each session, your body will process these particles through the immune system.
Different ink colours and depths of ink require different wavelets of laser energy.
With PicoSure and PicoWay, we can target multiple colours, including some of the hardest colours to remove such as green and blue ink.
Is laser tattoo removal painful?
While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, laser tattoo removal can hurt. In fact, it can be as painful, or more than getting the tattoo in the first place.
Some clients describe the treatment feeling like a heavy elastic band snapping against the skin. Whereas others say it feels like a warm, picking sensation.
Even though it can hurt, each session is much shorter than having a tattoo. For small tattoos it can be a few seconds. Larger tattoos can take up to ten minutes a session.
We do not use numbing cream before tattoo removal as it can change the texture of the skin and actually prolong your tattoo removal journey.
Instead, we use a cryo machine that blows extremely cold air onto the treated area. This helps to make you feel more comfortable throughout and protect your skin.
How much does laser tattoo removal cost?
Final tattoo removal prices will be different from person to person. This is because there are several factors that can impact how many sessions you will need to fully remove or fade your tattoo.
With PicoSure and PicoWay you will need fewer sessions than using older laser technology such as Q-switch lasers.
At Zapp Laser Studio, one laser tattoo removal session starts at £90.
Our laser technicians will work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that will give you great results and suit your budget.
To make laser tattoo removal cost more manageable, we do offer several payment plans that help to spread the cost. You can find more information on our treatment pricing page.
How many laser removal treatments will I need?
The number of sessions you will depend on factors such as the age, type, and location of your tattoo.
You will also need more sessions for complete removal of a tattoo than you will to fade a tattoo.
The average number of sessions are:
- 2-6 sessions to fade unwanted tattoos
- 6-10 to fully remove a tattoo
We will do a patch test during your consultation and build a more accurate removal plan based on your tattoo.
What factors affect how much laser tattoo removal costs?
Let’s break down which factors can impact your tattoo removal journey, so we can help give you realistic expectations.
Tattoo size and tattoo location
Larger tattoos will require more sessions and longer sessions than small tattoos.
If your tattoo is closer to your heart, it will fade faster because there is better circulation. Tattoos on your feet or hands, for example, will need more sessions.
Ink type and ink colour
Professional tattoos are much harder to remove than amateur tattoos. This is because professional tattoo ink is injected into the deeper layers of the dermis.
Ink colours:
- Black ink is generally the easiest to remove
- Coloured ink – including green, blue and white, are more challenging to remove and require more sessions and the right laser
Skin tone and skin type
Laser tattoo removal is generally faster on lighter skin tones. Darker skin tones tend to require more sessions and a more tailored approach to laser treatment.
At Zapp Laser Studio, we use both PicoSure and PicoWay to ensure laser tattoo removal is suitable for a wide range of skin tones.
Tattoo age
Many people think that new tattoos are the easiest to remove. In fact, a new tattoo may need more sessions, as older tattoos often fade over time.
Immune system response
The laser light helps break down the tattoo ink, but your immune system does the hard work of getting rid of the ink from your body.
If you have a healthy immune system, it is more likely that your body will process the ink much quicker.
Sun exposure
What you do before and in-between your laser tattoo removal sessions is very important.
To help support the tattoo removal process, you should avoid UV rays for a few weeks before your treatment.
You should also avoid sun exposure during your treatment sessions, and always wear sun protection after to ensure you support the healing process and reduce the chances of hyperpigmentation.
Talk to Zapp Laser Studio about laser treatment for tattoo removal
If you want to know – is laser tattoo removal suitable for you, please get in touch with our laser experts at Zapp Laser Studio.
We offer professional guidance and friendly support, so that you have all the information you need to make a confident and informed decision.
Book your consultation today and get ready to say goodbye to your unwanted tattoos.