Overview
What is Laser Tattoo Removal and who is it for?
Tattoo ink sits in the dermis, the deeper layer of skin, in particles too large for your body to remove. A Q-switched laser delivers extremely short, high-energy pulses that shatter these particles. Over the following weeks, the immune system carries away the smaller fragments through the lymphatic system, and the tattoo fades. Each session breaks down a little more of the remaining ink.
How fast a tattoo fades depends on several factors. Black and dark blue ink usually respond best. Red responds to certain wavelengths, while green, light blue, yellow and white are harder to clear and may not fade fully. Professional tattoos tend to have denser ink than amateur ones, and tattoos on the hands and feet often take longer because circulation there is lower.
Tattoo removal is a slow process. Many tattoos need 6 to 12 sessions or more, spaced at least 6 to 8 weeks apart, and some leave a faint shadow. In Indian skin, the laser can also affect natural pigment, leading to temporary lightening or darkening. Dr. Shilpa adjusts settings and spacing to reduce this, and you should plan for patience rather than quick results.
The procedure
What happens during the treatment?
- 1
Tattoo assessment
Dr. Shilpa looks at the colours, size, location and age of your tattoo and gives you a realistic idea of sessions and likely result.
- 2
Test and numbing
A test spot may be done first. Numbing cream is applied for about 45 minutes before each session.
- 3
Laser session
With protective eyewear on, short laser pulses are fired over the ink. It feels like hot grease spatter or rubber band snaps, and the skin turns white briefly.
- 4
Dressing and healing
The area is cooled and dressed with ointment. Mild swelling, pinpoint bleeding or blisters can occur and settle within 1-2 weeks.
Benefits
What are the benefits?
- Fades tattoos without cutting or skin grafts.
- Ink is targeted while most surrounding skin is left intact.
- Can lighten a tattoo enough for a cleaner cover-up.
- Settings are adjusted to lower pigment changes in Indian skin.
- Works on professional, amateur and cosmetic tattoos.
Is it right for you?
Laser tattoo removal suits most adults who want a tattoo faded or removed and can commit to a long course. It is postponed during pregnancy, with skin infection or a fresh tan. Colourful tattoos may not clear fully, and some leave a faint ghost image or texture change. A history of keloids should be discussed first.
Aftercare
How should you care for your skin afterwards?
- 01Keep the area clean and apply the prescribed ointment for a few days.
- 02Do not pop blisters or pick at scabs.
- 03Avoid swimming pools, saunas and hot baths until healed.
- 04Protect the area from sun with clothing or sunscreen.
- 05Wait for full healing before your next session.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Most tattoos need 6 to 12 sessions, and some need more. Dense professional tattoos, multi-coloured designs and tattoos on hands or feet usually take longer. Sessions are spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart, so complete fading can take a year or more.
This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary from person to person.
