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.

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.

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.

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 may be utilised to reduce any discomfort.

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.