It is estimated that about 1 in 5 Australians are looking to get their tattoo removed.

Laser tattoo removal is a non-surgical procedure, usually referring to the non-invasive removal of tattoo pigments via a process called photothermolysis. Lasers work by emitting enough light and energy to break down the tattoo ink so that the body can absorb it, and a natural fading of the tattoo happens each time the tattooed area is treated. You will usually have to have several treatments in order for the tattoo to fade completely, however, it depends on the size, colours and area of the tattoo being treated. Lasers such as the Enlighten or Pastelle Q have adjustable settings and modes for the spot-size, wavelength and repetition rate, which enables individualised treatments for each patient.

Whilst there have been various types of lasers introduced and trialled since the early 1960s, the Pastelle Q-Switch laser and Enlighten pico and nano technology laser are heralded as being the most successful. These recent technology innovations have seen continually impressive results, with most tattoos able to be almost entirely removed.

The Procedure

For the actual procedure, you may be asked to wear a protective eye shield, and your skin will usually be tested to identify its reaction to the intensity of the laser. You may or may not be offered a topical anaesthetic, but if you are worried about the pain factor, you can ask the practitioner for it.

The treatment itself involves the laser’s handpiece being placed on your skin, and the laser light is emitted from this handpiece, with the settings determined by the practitioner doing the treatment.

The light is emitted in stop-start pulses and feels like a burning sensation. You will receive an ice pack or some sort of cooling system to place on the area after the treatment. You are usually given a topical antibiotic cream along with some sort of coverage, such as a bandage to protect your exposed area, especially from the sun.