Tattoo Removal & Reduction

Most tattoos can be removed,​​​​​ ​although some colours may be harder than others. Black, red, and dark blue inks are typically easier to remove, while green, yellow, and light blue can be more difficult. White is a definite no, as it reflects the laser, so any shading using white ink can be challenging.

The duration of a laser tattoo removal session depends on the size and complexity of the tattoo. Small tattoos can be treated in as little as 15 minutes, while larger or more intricate designs may take longer. Simple black, or dark blue tattoos are also a little quicker to treat than ones with multiple colours. Generally, allow 30 minutes for a treatment session.

Every tattoo removal session breaks down around 15% of the ink. Every session gets deeper into the skin, as the ink is removed. Once a tattoo fades to about 80% less and less ink gets reached by the laser. Lack of pigment contrast and depth of the remaining ink is responsible for this slowing down of the final stages of removal. This is why multiple sessions, somewhere between 6 to 10 treatments, are needed to reduce a tattoo to near 100% clearance.

The removal of the ink particles from your skin is done by your lymphatic system. Once the ink is shattered into tiny pieces the body can carry them away, hence your tattoo gradually fades. After each session your skin is traumatised and needs time to heal, rebuild its natural defence barrier. Although the minimum stated time between treatments is 6 weeks, new guidance has emerged that the ink body is still working on removing the ink. To get the maximum benefit and to reduce your number of sessions and cost the advice is now to leave between 8 to 12 weeks before returning to the clinic.

Tattoo removal by a trained professional using a high-quality approved laser device ensures that the procedure is safe. At Bare UK, we believe that all health and safety protocols must be adhered to, and a decision to place client safety and care before commercial gain is our primary focus. Our philosophy of ‘progression over aggression’ means we start treatments cautiously and build on our parameters as we move through the process of removal. At every stage we seek to ensure you are happy with your progress and that you fully understand progress and timeframes.

There are some risks associated with any laser based aesthetic procedure, and we aim to constantly make you aware of these before you sign your consent, every time you visit us. The actual treatment can give rise to swelling, redness, scabbing and blistering. These natural body reactions reduce and go away after a few days to a couple of weeks. We help you with post care advice to reduce any discomfort you may experience during this time. Following the advice will reduce and minimise the chances of serious complications. In rare cases, the skin may become infected, and this can lead to scarring. Damaged traumatised skin is also prone to pigmentation, and it is possible for hypo or hyper pigmentation to occur which is mostly temporary for a few months however there is a risk it can be permanent.

As part of our consultation process and reconsent procedures we will communicate with about how best to prepare for your up-and-coming appointment. The important advice for you to know is to keep sunshine off your tattoo area for at least one month prior to your session. This also goes for any UV emitting sun bed or tanning devices. The use of self-tanning products must be stopped at least 2 weeks pre-treatment as should any other aesthetic procedures you may be having on the removal area. Post care is equally important for your skin health and the advice we give should be followed closely to help avoid complications, specifically scarring and pigmentation issues. But don’t worry, all of this is easy to understand and we will be there all the way should you wish to check on anything.