How Does Tattoo Removal Feel?

Tattoos are as popular as ever, with 30% of Americans sporting at least one tattoo. But a lot of people get tattoos they later regret, whether it’s the name of your ex (or worse — their nickname) or a tattoo that just no longer makes sense. 

At least you have the option of getting that tattoo removed. But what’s the procedure for tattoo removal? How much is it going to hurt?

Whatever the reason for wanting to have your tattoo removed, laser tattoo removal is a safe and common method of getting the job done. Peach Skin & Laser uses a new laser technology for safe, precise tattoo removal.

How does laser tattoo removal work?

Tattoos are made of particles of ink that are suspended in a layer of skin. 

Typically, your body removes foreign particles from your skin, but in the tattooing process, the ink that’s applied has particles that are too big for the body’s immune system to remove. That’s why the process is usually permanent.

For laser tattoo removal, we use a new laser technology called the PiQo4 laser. This type of laser emits a high-intensity pulse of light that breaks up ink particles in the skin into smaller particles. 

This allows your body’s immune system to clear the ink from your system. The amount of treatments needed depends on the size and type of your tattoo, but multiple treatments are common. 

What does laser tattoo removal feel like?

The sensations you feel during laser tattoo removal largely depend on the size of the tattoo you need to have removed and how many colors are involved. 

We use topical medications to ease the procedure, and the feeling of having a tattoo removed is often compared to the feeling of snapping a heavy rubber band against your skin multiple times. 

Laser tattoo removal is a safe, outpatient method of removing unwanted tattoos without scarring. The PiQo4 offers four wavelengths to effectively remove tattoos with a lot of different colors. 

What happens after?

The skin may bleed, blister, and swell once the treatment is done, and an antibacterial ointment will need to be applied for several days after to reduce risk of infection. 

Patients will be advised to wear loose clothing over the treated area, keep the area clean and dry, avoid direct sunlight, and leave scabs or blisters alone to avoid scarring. It is best to wait at least six to eight weeks between sessions.

If you want to get rid of that unfortunate tattoo that seemed like a good idea at the time, call one of our two Arizona locations or book an appointment online with Peach Skin & Laser.