The Spring Laser Clinic

River Bourne Health Club, Heriot Road, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 9DR

Email: info@springlaser.com                                          Tel: 0845 226 3299

Introduction

   Dermatologists acknowledge that using an active Q-switched laser is the best way to remove tattoos.

How does the laser work?

   The laser generates a high powered beam of light that is fired onto the tattoo in an extremely short pulse.  The laser light is absorbed by the tattoo ink particles and not the surrounding skin and so there is no cutting or burning of the skin.  The laser breaks down the tattoo particles so that the normal skin defences are able to disperse and absorb the ink.  This happens after every treatment, resulting in the gradual fading of the tattoo.  Blue/ black, red/ orange and green tattoos can usually be treated successfully.

 How is the treatment carried out?

   Both our Doctor and Nurse have many years experience of laser tattoo removal.  In the initial consultation, they will take a medical history to ensure that the individual is suitable for treatment and they will also explain in depth the treatment process, potential side effects and the likely number of treatments that will be required.  A test patch will also be done.

   During treatment, you will be asked to put on goggles to protect against eye damage.  The tattoo area can be cooled with a cold air jet to ease any discomfort during treatment, or you may choose to use an anaesthetic cream which is applied one hour before treatment.  After treatment, a soothing lotion and a light dressing may be applied.

 How does the treatment feel?

   The laser pulse is very short and most patients describe the sensation as bearable and similar to a hot pin prick or the flick of an elastic band.  The cold air jet and/ or anaesthetic cream can reduce discomfort to minimal levels.

 How many treatments are necessary?

   This depends on several factors, including the density and colour of the inks and the age of the tattoo.  Amateur tattoos can be quick to remove, taking 2 to 6 treatments.  Professional tattoos vary considerably and some can take up to 15 treatments.

 How long does each treatment take?

   The initial consultation will take around 30 minutes.  The treatments will take between 10 to 40 minutes depending on the size, colouring and complexity of the tattoo.  Treatments are normally spaced 4 to 10 weeks apart.

 What should I expect after the treatment?

   An instant whitening of the skin is seen after treatment but this generally fades quickly.  The area will feel tender for a few hours and could be red or raised for up to 48 hours.  Some tattoos will form a scab which must be left to heal naturally.

   The tattoo will not look very different initially, but will fade over a period of weeks after each treatment as the body disperses the ink particles.

   It is necessary to avoid sun exposure or to use a high protection sunscreen for two to four weeks after treatment.  The Spring Laser Clinic recommends and supplies sunscreen from Jan Marini for this purpose.

 Are there any side effects?

   In rare cases pigmentation changes can occur leaving the skin whiter or darker.  Sometimes a change in skin texture or scarring can occur, particularly if any scabs are not allowed to heal properly.  Finally, there is the possibility of a loss of the natural tanning ability in the areas treated.  All of these usually improve over time and it is extremely rare for there to be permanent side effects.