Sometimes, people may come to regret a tattoo for personal reasons. The goal to completely remove the tattoo used to be impossible to achieve, but now, with advanced laser technology, laser tattoo removal is possible. Before undergoing any procedure performed on the skin, it’s common for people to wonder if it’s worth it, particularly when weighing up the pros and cons, including possible risks of the treatment.

Are there any risks to laser tattoo removal?

Laser tattoo removal works by using a high-intensity laser that targets ink particles in the skin and breaks them down. The broken-down ink particles are naturally eliminated by the body’s immune system. The process is not immediate and often requires several sessions to achieve the desired results.

Generally, laser tattoo removal is a reliable method, if performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner and when using advanced technology that has been especially designed for skin treatments. Although, any skin treatment can come with some potential risks, that candidates for the procedure should consider before undergoing their first treatment.

A possible side effect of laser tattoo removal is skin discolouration, which is usually temporary. The skin in the treated area can appear lighter or darker than normal.

Another potential side effect of laser tattoo removal is scarring. Scarring is generally rare but can occur if the procedure is performed incorrectly. To minimise the risk of scarring, it is important to choose a skilled and experienced practitioner who uses the latest technology and techniques. At Begone Skin & Body in Perth, we use the advanced PicoWay laser from Candela, which uses short pulse times and precise wavelengths to make the procedure effective, fast, tolerable and associated with fewer risks than other devices.

Throughout the treatment, laser tattoo removal can also cause pain and discomfort. The level of pain experienced during the procedure varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including the size and location of the tattoo, the type of laser used, and the patient’s pain tolerance. Some patients may also experience swelling and redness in the treated area. However, these side effects are actually quite common for many skin treatments, from laser to microdermabrasion and peels. Generally, any treatment that involves targeting pigments in the skin will trigger the body’s natural healing response, and it is a response that you can expect to subside quite soon after treatment.

How can risks be minimised or avoided?

To prevent side effects associated with laser tattoo removal, you should first be open with your practitioner during your consultation about your medical history, skin health and any medications you are taking. Performing the procedure on suitable candidates only is the first step we take to ensure the best results with minimal complications.

If you’re considered suitable for the procedure, you should follow some preparation and aftercare steps to protect your skin. You will need to avoid sun exposure for about five days after the procedure, as UV rays can increase the risk of skin discolouration and other complications. To minimise swelling, you can use an ice pack for 10 minutes every hour on the day of your treatment. Avoiding strenuous exercise for two days after treatment will also help to reduce swelling and irritation. To help soothe your skin after laser, we’ll recommend a post-laser gel and advise you on how often to apply it.

Does laser tattoo removal ever fail?

Ultimately, the success level of the procedure will largely depend on the details of your tattoo, such as where it is located, the size, and how many laser tattoo removal sessions you will need to remove it according to your desired results.

At Begone, we use the powerful PicoWay laser technology, that can remove colours that are usually hard to target, particularly green and blue. The advanced ability for this laser to target pigments makes the procedure deliver great results after the right number of sessions.

Essentially, for an effective treatment, you will want to choose a skilled and experienced practitioner. Laser tattoo removal can definitely fail with ineffective technology and inexperienced staff.

Is laser tattoo removal worth it?

Overall, that is entirely up to you! If you really want to remove a tattoo and would be willing to undergo the right number of sessions to achieve the best results, laser tattoo removal is absolutely worth it. When it comes to the procedure being worth it in terms of the associated risks, all skin treatments will come with some level of risk, and it’s ultimately about choosing the right clinic and following aftercare steps to minimise risks.

Begone Skin & Body in Perth

Using the most up-to-date technology to deliver the best results, Begone uses the state-of-the-art PicoWay laser, built with the ability to target even the most difficult colours when removing unwanted tattoos.

We strive for minimal downtime and minimal risks, so we aim to perform our procedures in a way that puts the wellbeing of our patients first, while achieving the results you desire.Tired of seeing that unwanted tattoo that you regret? Book your consultation for laser tattoo removal today.