FAQ
Your Questions
Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you may have queries and concerns about the process, safety, and outcomes of tattoo removal. Here, we aim to provide you with clear and informative responses to help you make well-informed decisions. Browse through the FAQs below to find the information you need.
If you have any additional inquiries, feel free to reach out to our friendly team.
How laser tattoo
removal works
How does laser tattoo removal work?
Laser tattoo removal works by delivering highly concentrated laser light into the skin, which breaks down the tattoo ink particles. The laser targets the pigment in the tattoo, causing it to fragment into smaller particles that can be naturally eliminated by the body's immune system.
IMPORTANT: It is a condition of Radiation Health Use Licenses that a knowledgeable Medical Operator supervises (be consulted before commencing treatment) all stages of treatments involving the use of a laser apparatus. Please see your doctor/GP before your first appointment so they’re aware you are planning on getting lasered and to discuss any potential risks.
What factors can affect the number of tattoo removal sessions required?
The number of tattoo removal sessions required can vary depending on various factors, including the size, colour, depth, and age of the tattoo. Additionally, individual factors like skin type, tattoo location, and ink density can impact the number of sessions needed for complete removal. Your general health, such as the function of your immune and lymphatic systems, are also among the biggest factors in determining how many sessions you will need.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with laser tattoo removal?
Laser tattoo removal is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified professional. However, some potential risks and side effects may include temporary skin irritation, redness, swelling, blistering, or changes in skin pigmentation. These effects are typically mild and subside over time.
Can all tattoo ink colours be effectively removed?
Most tattoo ink colours can be effectively removed using laser tattoo removal. However, certain colours like black, dark blue, and red tend to respond best to laser treatment. Lighter colours, like yellow, green, and white, may require additional sessions or specialised laser systems for optimal results.
Will the tattoo completely disappear after laser removal?
In many cases, laser tattoo removal can significantly fade or completely remove a tattoo. Complete removal is possible for tattoos with dense or resistant ink, but it may take quite a few sessions. The level of removal depends on several factors, including the size, colour, depth, and type of ink used in the tattoo, along with your general health.
Are there any limitations on the size or location of tattoos that can be treated?
Laser tattoo removal can be performed on tattoos of various sizes and locations. However, the treatment area should be evaluated by a qualified professional to determine the feasibility and safety of the procedure based on factors such as skin type, tattoo characteristics, and the surrounding anatomy.
Can you remove tattoos on sensitive areas, such as the face or neck?
Yes, laser tattoo removal can be performed on sensitive areas, like the face or neck. However, these areas may require additional care and caution during the treatment process. A skilled operator will take necessary precautions to ensure safety and minimise discomfort in sensitive areas.
What should I expect during a tattoo removal session?
During a tattoo removal session, a licenced professional will use a specialised laser device to deliver short pulses of laser light to the tattooed area. You may experience a sensation similar to the snap of a rubber band or the feeling of a warm, tingling sensation. The duration of each session can vary depending on the size and complexity of the tattoo.
Are the results of laser tattoo removal permanent?
The results of laser tattoo removal are considered permanent once the tattoo ink has been effectively fragmented and eliminated from the body. However, it is important to note that individual factors like the type of tattoo, skin characteristics, and the tattoo's location may influence the final outcome. Some individuals may experience residual pigmentation or faint traces of the tattoo even after multiple sessions.
What happens if I have a tattoo with multiple colours or layers of ink?
Laser tattoo removal can effectively target and break down multiple colours and layers of ink. However, the removal process may require additional sessions or specialised techniques to address different pigments or depths of ink. A personalised treatment plan will be created based on the specific characteristics of your tattoo.
Can I undergo laser tattoo removal if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
The suitability of laser tattoo removal for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions may vary depending on the condition and its impact on the skin's healing process. It is important to disclose any medical conditions or concerns to your operator during the consultation to ensure your safety and determine the best course of action.
How much does tattoo removal hurt?
Everyone has a different pain tolerance, so we can't give an exact answer. What makes the process tolerable is that tattoo removal is fast, significantly faster than getting the tattoo. You know the saying, “No Pain, No Gain,” right?
What does tattoo removal feel like?
"Tattoo removal feels like getting flicked by a big rubber band" is the response we most commonly hear from our clients, and we 100% agree with this statement.
Can I use numbing cream for tattoo removal?
Yes, you can, although the effectiveness of numbing creams varies from client to client. Numbing creams can be purchased from a pharmacy and applied before treatment as directed by your pharmacist.
Is tattoo removal safe?
Tattoo removal IS safe, but like any treatment performed using a laser, there are risks involved. Clean Skin Laser Tattoo Removal has taken every precaution possible and has implemented multiple control measures to ensure the highest levels of safety during treatments.
Can I get tattoo removal while PREGNANT, TRYING TO CONCEIVE (including IVF) OR BREASTFEEDING?
The short answer is NO! There hasn't been enough research done to determine whether laser tattoo removal is or isn't harmful to unborn babies.
Can tattoo removal cause scarring?
Being shot with a laser involves a lot of heat being absorbed by the skin. This heat can sometimes cause small blisters. If these blisters aren’t cared for properly, they can burst and become infected. This is the most common way any type of scar tissue would develop from tattoo removal treatments. Obviously, if scar tissue develops during the healing process of the tattoo (which is super common), this scar tissue will remain once the ink is gone. At Clean Skin Laser Tattoo Removal, no unnecessary shortcuts are taken to get your tattoo removed quickly at the expense of your body.
Can I get a tattoo over skin I've had laser treatments on?
YES! Tattoos can be completely removed or lightened to be tattooed over.
What is a tattoo removal vs a cover-up?
Too often, we see clients with a cover-up tattoo over an unwanted tattoo. Usually, the original tattoo is very small, while the cover-up is significantly bigger and, usually, really dark to cover the original tattoo. If we're ever asked, "Should I get a tattoo removal or a cover-up?" our response is ALWAYS, “BOTH!” We always recommend getting a tattoo you'd like covered up lightened first, as this then allows you many more options for the cover-up tattoo.
How soon after getting a new tattoo can I get it removed?
Before laser tattoo removal can begin, the tattoo must be 100% healed (healing takes between eight and 12 weeks). Starting laser tattoo removal too soon can lead to scarring and skin pigmentation issues, so we have adopted the approach of requiring a longer period of 12 weeks before starting treatment.
What is Saline tattoo removal vs laser tattoo removal?
Saline tattoo removal is often used for the removal of cosmetic tattoos, like eyebrows. We have a strong relationship with an extremely reputable eyebrow technician who is also one of our clients and who has told us saline tattoo removal is only successful on very shallow ink, and it’s very hard to know just how deep ink is. Therefore, tattoo removal of eyebrows is far more successful with a laser rather than a saline solution. Typically, it takes two to three treatments to remove eyebrow tattoos.
What tattoo removal laser does Clean Skin Laser Tattoo Removal use?
The machine is called a "Clinical Lucas Plus", which is a Q-Switched Laser with a high powered 2 wavelength Nd:YAG Q-Switched system. If you would like more information on this laser, please click the link below.
Check out the Clinical Lucas Plus Laser
Do you treat all skin types?
In reference to the Fitzpatrick Skin Scale, we treat skin types 1 to 4. Treatment of skin types 5 and 6 is very unpredictable, with the risk of keloid scarring, hyperpigmentation, and hypopigmentation significantly increased. Therefore, we do not treat skin types 5 or 6. You can find more information on the Fitzpatrick Scale here.
Can I bring a friend or partner or my kids with me?
Yes, you can. However, we require everyone in the clinic to wear protective glasses during treatment.
Do you provide tattoo removal training?
Yes, we do! Once you have completed the required competencies and have obtained your Queensland Radiation Health Trainee Use License, you can then start your 100 hours of practical training under the supervision of our Radiation Safety Officer.
We also offer a two to three-day Laser Foundation course ideal for interstate laser tattoo businesses that don’t require any formal training or laser operators in Qld who simply want to refresh their skills.
How many sessions
will tattoo
removal take?
This is the million-dollar question! 😊
Here’s the TL:DR answer:
This depends entirely on factors like the size of your tattoo, where it is on your body, and what ink it’s made from. We never promise an exact number of sessions prior to a detailed consultation because it depends on so many factors, including your physical health, the size and colour of your tattoo, your skin characteristics, and the tattoo's location.
What we can tell you upfront is that we never lure potential clients in with dishonest guarantees about removing tattoos in ‘X’ number of sessions just to make a sale.
Here’s why, fully explained:
When it comes to answering how many treatments are required to achieve a desired result, only broad (but accurate) information can (and should) be provided to give the best understanding of what to expect - and sorry, it’s a bit of a read.
Unfortunately some clinics use answering this question as a sales tactic by providing a “personalized” treatment range based simply on what a tattoo looks like and in the process set misleading & unrealistic expectations just to make themselves sound knowledgeable and make a sale.
From our years of experience what we’ve learnt is that you cannot predict how a tattoo is going to respond to treatment based on past results of a tattoo that looks similar! Each tattoo is 100% unique, there’s no “one size fits all” answer to the question and sometimes “how long’s a piece of string” is the best answer…
There’s a long list of factors that effect how well ink is moved from the treated area with one of the biggest being how well the clients immune & lymphatic systems function or put simply, the clients general health. Why? Because once the laser has done its job of breaking the ink down the body then has to be able to efficiently heal the broken down ink away.
We base our honest indication of what to expect on nearly 3000 treatments on 650+ clients performed in our clinic plus a study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. That study revealed that 100 patient/client achieved complete removal in the range of 3 to 20 treatments. From results we’ve seen in our clinic our clients have achieved complete removal of their tattoos in 7 to 17 treatments. With this information we say allow for an AVERAGE of 12 treatments to completely remove your tattoo.
Laser tattoo
removal cost
and pricing
How much does laser tattoo removal cost?
We pride ourselves on providing affordable tattoo removal and believe we are one of the most competitively priced clinics in Brisbane. Tattoo removal prices are based predominantly on the size of the tattoo. If you want a number of tattoos removed at the same appointment, we can “package” them together or offer an hourly rate to keep the process as economical as possible. If you'd like a quick quote to get your tattoos removed, hit THIS LINK to fill out our Quick Quote form.
Do you offer any financing options for tattoo removal treatments?
Yes, we offer flexible financing options to help make tattoo removal treatments more affordable for our clients. Our team will provide information about the available financing options and guide you through the process, ensuring that you can access the treatments you need.
Is there a consultation fee for discussing tattoo removal options?
No, we offer complimentary consultations to discuss your tattoo removal options. During the consultation, our experienced team will evaluate your tattoo, assess your unique requirements, and provide you with personalised information and recommendations tailored to your specific situation.
Tattoo removal pre-treatment tips
Please inform your Laser Operator of any medications you’re taking prior to beginning treatment to reduce any risk of photosensitivity.
TELL YOUR LASER OPERATOR BEFORE TREATMENT IF YOUR MEDICAL CONDITIONS CHANGE OR IF YOU START TAKING ANY ADDITIONAL MEDICATIONS THROUGHOUT YOUR TREATMENT PLAN.
Are there any specific aftercare instructions I need to follow after a tattoo removal treatment?
After a tattoo removal treatment, it is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your operator. This may include keeping the treated area clean, applying prescribed ointments or creams, avoiding sun exposure, wearing sunscreen, and avoiding activities that can irritate the treated skin.
Are there any restrictions on sun exposure before or after tattoo removal treatments?
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Tattoo removal and sun exposure do not mix! This can increase the risk of complications and interfere with the healing process. Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and fake tanning for four weeks before treatment and refrain from using these products and exposing your tattoo to the sun throughout the course of your treatments. It is advisable to wear sunscreen with a high SPF to minimise potential side effects.
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If you are having treatment on an area with body hair, you may shave the area two to three days prior to treatment. This is optional, but note that if unshaven, the hair may turn white during treatment due to the absorption of the pigment in the hair but will return to its original colour as the hair re-grows.
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DO NOT shave on the treatment day to reduce any risk of cuts, open wounds, or sensitivity to the skin. We have clippers in our clinic to shave the treatment area.
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If you don’t deal with any kind of sunburn-type heat sensation very well, always tell our laser operator prior to treatment. If you experience any discomfort during treatment, please let us know asap so the energy can be adjusted to your individual pain tolerance. As you progress through your treatments, your tolerance to the discomfort will increase, allowing us to gradually increase the setting we laser you on.
Tattoo Removal
POST-TREATMENT
ADVICE
What can I expect my skin to look and feel like after a laser tattoo removal treatment?
There will be redness, sensitivity, soreness, and swelling, as well as potential bruising, small blood blister, and blistering after each treatment. This is normal, but please touch the treated area as little as possible except to cool it with an ice pack.
Blistering is always a possibility – however, these are superficial and rarely result in any scarring. They should be treated like sunburn or any other blister. Keep the area clean & DO NOT burst blisters or pick at the scab, as this may cause infection and/or scars to form.
What is the recovery time after a laser tattoo removal session?
The recovery time after a laser tattoo removal session can vary depending on the individual and the size of the treated area. Typically, there may be some redness and mild discomfort immediately after the session, which subsides within a few hours to a few days. It is important to follow post-treatment care instructions provided by your operator.
Can I resume my regular activities immediately after a tattoo removal session?
Most individuals can resume their regular activities immediately after a tattoo removal session. However, it is important to follow any specific post-treatment instructions provided by your operator, including:
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Apply ice packs, if necessary, in the first two hours to reduce discomfort and minimise the risk of blistering.
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Avoid exercise for 24 hours after treatment (especially in summer) to avoid excess temperature in the treated area.
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Do not swim for three days after treatment, as chlorine and salt can aggravate treatment areas and increase sensitivity.
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Apply a high-potency Vitamin E cream to the treated area as often as possible.
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Keep the treated area completely covered from the sun throughout your entire treatment plan, but if sun exposure is unavoidable, apply the previously mentioned Vitamin E and a minimum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
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Sun exposure must be avoided for preferably at least two months after treatment as exposure to the sun may intensify lighter pigmentation.
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In the unlikely event of the skin being broken during treatment, purchasing an antiseptic powder is recommended to help accelerate the healing process. It is also handy to have in your first aid kit at home.
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The skin is fragile after treatment. If applying makeup, pat gently. Makeup can be applied immediately after treatment if the skin is not broken. If the skin is broken, apply the previously mentioned antiseptic powder.
How long do I need to wait between treatments?
We require a minimum of six weeks between treatments to allow your skin to heal sufficiently. This is the absolute minimum. If you allow for more time between treatments, that’s okay; it won’t negatively affect the removal process at all.
At the six-week mark, the ink doesn’t just stop fading; it will continue to be removed from the area for months to come. The six-week period is just to allow the treated area to heal.
Cancellation and rescheduling
What is your cancellation policy?
At Clean Skin Laser Tattoo Removal, we require a minimum of 24 hours notice for all cancellations and/or changes of appointments; this allows enough time for your appointment to be reallocated to other clients. We also understand that situations can arise where 24 hours notice is not possible to give; therefore, we allow the cancellation and/or change of appointments with less than 24 hours notice ONCE ONLY with a fee of 20% of the quoted treatment price incurred for each appointment cancelled and/or changed thereafter.
We trust that the fairness of this policy is evident and that you understand that it applies to every client every time. This policy is important for us to continue to provide our usual high level of care and timely service.