Tattoo Removal

Not all lasers are the same and not just any laser can safely remove tattoos.  DermaZone Aesthetic Skin Laser Clinic in Radlett has the most advanced Active Q-Switch lasers for tattoo removal. This is the only type of laser that is safe and effective for the removal of tattoos. Our lasers can fade away tattoos of various size and colour using dual wavelength 1064nm for Black, brown and blue colours and 832nm for yellow, red, orange and greens.

For best results we combine the treatment with the Fractional 2940nm laser which can help remove any scarring caused by the tattoo and hypo/hyper pigmentation left by the treatment.

Your tattoo will be assessed and, in the majority of cases, laser tattoo removal will be recommended.

This treatment is for you if:

• You wish you never got a tattoo
• You are looking to fade a tattoo for a new design
• You need to remove a tattoo to help pursue your career
• Wish to remove medical tattoos

Common Questions

How is the treatment carried out?

Active Q-Switch Lasers that generate a high powered beam of laser light in an extremely short pulse are the most suitable lasers for tattoo removal treatment.  The light is absorbed by the tattoo ink particles, breaking them down into smaller pieces, enabling your natural immune defences to absorb and disperse the ink.  A gradual fading of the tattoo occurs over a series of treatments.

The skin will be cleaned and the laser applicator is passed over the tattoo releasing quick pulses of light.  An audible clicking noise is often heard as the ink particles shatter.  After treatment a soothing lotion is applied.

Experiencing Tattoo Removal?

Most clients describe the sensation as similar to a hot pin prick or the flick of an elastic band.  Whilst mildly uncomfortable, most people tolerate the treatment well.  A skin cooling device and anaesthetic cream may be utilised to reduce any discomfort.

How does the skin look after treatment?

An instant whitening of the skin is seen but this generally fades quickly.  The area is likely to feel tender for a few hours and can be red and swollen for up to 48 hours.  Some tattoos may form a graze which must be left to heal naturally.  Initially the tattoo is unlikely to look any different but will fade over 4 to 8 weeks as the body disperses it.

What is the recovery period?

Very rarely the skin may become lighter or darker, or a small blister may form.  Change to skin texture and scarring is possible, though very uncommon and is more likely if grazes are not allowed to heal naturally.  There may be loss of natural tanning ability in the area treated which usually improves with time.

How many treatments are recommended?

This depends on a number of factors such as the density and colour of the tattoo and the age of the tattoo.  Amateur tattoos can be quick to remove, taking 1 to 6 treatments, whereas professional tattoos vary considerably and can take up to 15 treatments.  Treatments are spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart and each treatment can take anything from 10 minutes to 30 minutes depending on the size of the tattoo.