At Oolala Cosmetic & Laser Clinic we offer Tattoo Removal via Laser and Chemical Peel method.
Laser Tattoo Removal
For a permanent tattoo removal procedure, laser tattoo removal has proven to be an effective treatment option. Laser technology utilizes different heat frequencies penetrating at alternate wave lengths and pulse types to create a breakdown, and eventual removal of the tattoo ink.
How does Laser Tattoo Removal work?
The most popular laser technology available for tattoo removal is the Q-switch laser technology. Q-switch lasers utilise a number of alternate wave-lengths to penetrate and attract all colours on the spectrum. Black tattoos, red ink tattoos, tattoos comprised of different colours, the size of the tattoo, the type of ink and the skin tone make a difference in the laser method selected for tattoo removal. The Quanta Q-switch laser technology utilises a unique square flat top applicator tip to easily control the degree of overlapping and reduce the risk of over-treating the skin. The energy from the Q-switch laser is delivered using thermal/heat waves measured in nanoseconds or one billionth of a second. The Quanta Q Plus C has three separate lasers incorporated into the machine including 1064nm, 532nm, and 694nm.
The Quanta Q-switch delivers a photoacoustic effect targeting the ink and pigment with minimal thermal interaction, thus leaving the surrounding skin preserved. These fragmented ink particles are then removed via the phagocytosis process initiated by the body’s response to the laser treatment.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Laser Tattoo Removal painful?
The method of pain maintenance also varies from person-to-person depending on the patient’s level of pain tolerance. Options include no anaesthesia or a topical anaesthetic such as a numbing cream, or simply ice packs and post treatment cooling used to numb the treatment area. Once the method of pain control is chosen and applied, the laser will be held up next to the skin where it will deliver laser energy into the skin via short pulses. This treatment causes the skin to look “frosted”, a side effect of the laser treatment that will only last temporarily. It is not uncommon to experience purpura (bruising under skin from blood vessels) especially if you have a sensitive skin type. You should also be aware that some degree of hair removal will need to occur in the treated area to more fully access the surface area of skin to be treated.
Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare
After completion of your tattoo removal treatment, your Laser technician might choose to apply a soothing ointment, and will then apply a dressing to the treatment area. There are no special instructions to follow before your laser tattoo removal procedure, however, as with all procedures, you will want to stop smoking 4 weeks before and after your treatment to increase wound healing capabilities. It is also important that you avoid excessive sun exposure for 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after your laser treatment as the laser technology will heighten your skin’s sensitivity causing it to be hypersusceptible to adverse side effects. Keep the area clean and dry during the healing process. Your Laser technician may recommend an antibiotic ointment or silicone topical cream to apply to aid in wound healing such as Stratamed. Be careful not to pick at peeling scabbing skin as picking could potentially lead to scarring. Following your laser tattoo removal treatment, you may apply a cold compress to alleviate swelling, bruising, and discomfort during this time.
Successive treatments, however, are not begun until the tattoo is healed. Recovery only takes about a week, but you will likely need to wait a minimum of 8 weeks or until treated area is healed between sessions. This is something you will discuss in more detail with your tattoo removal specialist.
Would I be Considered an Ideal Candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?
Most unwanted tattoos can be removed through laser tattoo removal, but those who have fairer skin and/or an old tattoo already having experienced some degree of fading make ideal candidates for tattoo laser removal. It is also helpful to have a good immune system as the tattoo removal process is lengthy and commonly requires multiple sessions before full removal is complete. Also, the pigment is flushed out through your lymphatic system, meaning that being in good health is highly important to your candidacy.
Unfortunately, laser tattoo removal is more difficult to complete on darker skin tones. Darker skin tones run a greater risk of developing hyper/hypo-pigmentation than those with lighter skin tones. It is also not a recommended procedure for those with a history of skin hypersensitivity, scarring (especially keloids), or skin infections. If you do not believe that you would be an ideal candidate for laser tattoo removal, speak with your Laser Technician about other tattoo removal options.
What are the Pros and Cons of Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser tattoo removal is a highly effective way of non-surgically removing your unwanted tattoo. It also carries minimal side effects making it an ideal way to address your tattoo regret.
Unfortunately, laser tattoo removal is not a quick process. It requires multiple treatments to see results and you risk developing discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and possible scarring as a result of the procedure. To reduce the risk of potential scarring at Oo La La Cosmetic & Laser Clinic we can combine our Q-switch Laser Tattoo Removal treatment with our Quanta You Laser which allows excess heat to escape from the skin and reduce the risk of blistering and scarring.
Side Effects
While the side effects of laser tattoo removal are often very minimal, side effects can include: blisters, bruising, scabbing, scarring, swelling, discomfort, itching, skin discoloration, infection, and tenderness. Dark skin, especially, is prone to discoloration issues as the laser technology is attracted to the darker pigment such as found in tattoos.
How much does Laser Tattoo Removal treatment cost?
Laser tattoo removal prices will vary dependant on the size of the tattoo, prices can start from $120 per treatment and will be priced upon consultation.
Get In Touch
For more information about laser tattoo removal, please call us on (07) 5539 9534 or contact us to arrange a consultation at our Surfers Paradise location.
