How laser tattoo removal works
Tattoo ink sits in the dermis as particles too large for your body to remove on its own. A tattoo removal laser sends extremely short pulses of light into the skin. The ink absorbs this energy and breaks into smaller fragments, which your immune system gradually clears away over the following weeks.
Because the body needs time to clear the ink, removal happens in stages: each session fades the tattoo a little more.
How many sessions will you need?
There is no exact number. Some tattoos fade well in about five to ten sessions, while many need more, sometimes up to around twenty. Sessions are commonly spaced six to eight weeks apart, so full removal can take a year or longer.
| Factor | Fewer sessions | More sessions |
|---|---|---|
| Ink colour | Black, dark blue | Bright and multiple colours |
| Ink amount | Light line work, amateur tattoos | Dense, saturated professional work |
| Age | Older, already faded tattoos | Newer tattoos |
| Location | Areas with good blood flow, such as the upper body | Hands, feet, lower legs |
| Size | Small | Large |
| Layering | Single tattoo | Cover-ups over old tattoos |
Full removal or fading for a cover-up?
You do not have to remove a tattoo completely. Many people have just a few sessions to lighten it so an artist can cover it with a new design. This usually takes fewer sessions and opens up more design options. Read how tattoo cover-ups work to see if this route suits you.
What happens during a session
- Consultation: the practitioner checks your skin, the tattoo's colours and your medical history, and explains realistic results.
- Protection: you wear protective eye goggles.
- Comfort: the area may be cooled, or a local anaesthetic offered.
- Treatment: the laser passes over the tattoo. Small tattoos take only minutes; larger ones longer.
- Dressing: the area is cleaned, may have ointment applied and is covered.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Most people describe it as a sharp snapping or flicking feeling, like a rubber band against the skin, with heat. Many say it is more intense than getting the tattoo, but much quicker. Bony, thin-skinned areas tend to be more sensitive, just as with tattooing; our tattoo pain chart gives you an idea by body area.
Side effects and risks
Common and usually temporary: redness, swelling, a white frosting on the skin straight after treatment, blistering, pinpoint bleeding, scabbing and tenderness.
Possible longer-term effects:
- Incomplete removal, with faint traces of ink remaining
- Changes in skin colour: lighter or darker patches
- Changes in skin texture or, uncommonly, scarring
- Some white, flesh-toned or bright inks darkening after treatment
Choosing an experienced practitioner and following aftercare reduces the risks. See a doctor if you notice signs of infection, such as spreading redness, pus, increasing pain or fever.
Aftercare after each session
- Keep the area clean and covered with a clean dressing for the first days, as instructed.
- Apply the ointment your practitioner recommends.
- Do not pop blisters or pick scabs.
- Avoid swimming, baths and hot tubs until healed.
- Keep the area out of the sun and use sunscreen once healed.
Many of the same habits apply as when healing a new tattoo; our tattoo aftercare guide explains why.
How much does laser removal cost?
Clinics usually charge per session, priced by tattoo size, and some sell packages. Because you may need many sessions, the total can be several times the price of the original tattoo. Ask for a full estimate at your consultation. Comparing this with a cover-up? See our tattoo cost guide.
How to choose a removal clinic
- Look for qualified practitioners with specific tattoo removal experience.
- Ask which laser they use and whether it suits your ink colours and skin tone.
- Ask to see before-and-after photos across several sessions.
- Expect honest, realistic expectations, not a promise of perfect removal.
Good to know
Recent laser treatment may affect other plans. Some blood services ask about procedures that broke the skin; see donating blood after a tattoo. And if you are planning a new tattoo, the best way to avoid needing removal is careful planning: read 25 things to know before your first tattoo and how to choose a tattoo artist.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions does laser tattoo removal take?
Some tattoos fade well in about five to ten sessions, but many need more, sometimes up to around twenty. Size, colours, ink depth, age of the tattoo, its location and your skin all affect the number.
How far apart are laser removal sessions?
Sessions are commonly spaced about six to eight weeks apart, giving your skin time to heal and your body time to clear the broken-down ink.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Many people find it uncomfortable, often compared to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Sessions are short, and clinics may offer cooling or numbing options.
Can laser remove a tattoo completely?
Sometimes, but not always. Some tattoos, especially multicoloured ones, may leave faint traces even after full treatment. A good clinic will give you realistic expectations at your consultation.
Which tattoo colours are hardest to remove?
Black and dark blue usually respond best. Bright colours such as some greens, light blues and yellows can be harder, and white or flesh-toned inks can sometimes darken after treatment.
