Short answerQ-Switch laser shatters tattoo ink into particles your immune system gradually clears. Black and dark blue fade fastest, and some colours need more sessions. Most tattoos need several sessions 6 – 8 weeks apart. Amateur and older tattoos usually clear faster than new, professional ones.
What affects the number of sessions
- Ink colour: black responds best, while green, yellow and light blue are more stubborn
- Ink density and depth: professional tattoos have more ink
- Age of tattoo: older tattoos have partly faded already
- Location: areas with better circulation clear faster
Does it hurt?
It feels like a rubber band snapping on the skin. A numbing cream and cooling make it tolerable, and sessions are short.
Aftercare
Expect whitening, redness and sometimes blistering for a few days. Keep the area clean, apply the prescribed ointment, don't pick at it, and protect it from sun.
You can also lighten a tattoo for a better cover-up, or correct permanent eyebrow and lip tattoos.
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This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Results vary from person to person.