How does laser tattoo removal work?

By design, tattoos are meant to be permanent. The ink sits deep in the second layer of skin (called the dermis), where the body can’t break it down on its own. 

But that doesn’t always mean the tattoo still feels right once you’ve gotten it or even later in life. No matter the reason, you might want to remove it, lighten it before a cover-up, or simply understand what your options are before committing to treatment.

Laser tattoo removal works by sending highly targeted pulses of light energy into the skin, which shatter the ink particles into fragments small enough for your body’s immune system to gradually clear away over a series of sessions. 

At Victorian Dermal Group, we use the PicoWay laser because it allows for a precise, tailored approach to tattoo removal across a range of tattoo types and colours. But the technology is only one part of the process. In this guide, we’ll explain what we consider when planning treatment, from your tattoo and skin type to the number of sessions, expected cost, and aftercare.

 

Why we use PicoWay for laser tattoo removal

Tattoo removal lasers fall into two main types: nanosecond and picosecond. This describes the speed of their energy pulses.

Q-switched nanosecond lasers have long been the standard technology used in laser tattoo removal. They deliver pulses of energy in billionths of a second and use heat to help break down tattoo ink. They are commonly used for darker pigments, although some colours can be more complex to target.

PicoWay is a picosecond laser system, which means it delivers energy in trillionths of a second. These ultra-short bursts create a photoacoustic effect, using pressure rather than relying primarily on heat to fragment tattoo pigment. This may help reduce heat-related impact on the surrounding skin.

It also uses multiple wavelengths to treat a range of shades, from dense blacks to brighter, traditionally more challenging tones.

PicoWay laser tattoo removal before and after

What affects laser tattoo removal results?

No two tattoos are the same. The ink colour, depth, technique, and your skin’s response can all influence your treatment plan and how many sessions you might need. 

Tattoo size matters because larger tattoos cover more skin and usually take longer to treat. They may also need to be treated in sections, depending on the area and your skin’s response.

Age of the tattoo can also make a difference. Older tattoos are often already faded, which may make them easier to treat than fresh or heavily saturated ink.

Ink colour affects how the pigment absorbs laser energy. Black ink is often easier to target, while lighter, brighter, or more complex colours may take longer to break down.

Ink depth and density are important because professional tattoos often use more pigment and place it more evenly and deeply within the skin when compared to amateur tattoos.

Skin type helps determine the safest and most appropriate laser settings, as well as how treatments should be spaced. Your clinician will consider this during your consultation.

The area of the body can influence how quickly the tattoo clears. Areas with lower circulation, such as the hands, feet, or ankles, may take longer, while more sensitive areas, such as the face, may require a more cautious treatment approach.

Health and lifestyle also play a role. Your immune system helps clear fragmented ink, so general health, circulation, hydration, and habits like smoking can affect how your body responds between sessions.

 

Which tattoo colours are hardest to remove?

Colour is one of the biggest factors in tattoo removal because different ink colours absorb different wavelengths of light. Black ink is often more responsive because it absorbs a broad range of wavelengths, while blues and greens are the hardest tattoo colours to remove. 

Picosecond laser tattoo removal uses a multi-wavelength approach to target pigment:

• 532 nm targets superficial pigment, including red-toned tattoo ink.
• 730-785 nm targets blue and green tattoo pigments.
• 1064 nm targets deeper pigment and darker tattoo colours.

Your clinician will select the right wavelength and settings based on your skin tone, the type and depth of pigment, the colour of the tattoo, and the area being treated.

 

How many sessions does tattoo removal take?

Most tattoos need more than one laser treatment session because the ink can’t be cleared all at once. After each session, your body then needs time to process and clear the fragmented ink particles before the next treatment.

The number of sessions can vary significantly from person to person. A small cosmetic tattoo on the face is approached very differently from a large coloured tattoo on the body, or a dense black tattoo on the hands or feet.

Your clinician will assess your tattoo itself, your skin type and sensitivity, and your medical history before recommending a treatment plan. 

 

How much does tattoo removal cost?

Laser tattoo removal cost depends on the amount of treatment involved. A small, simple tattoo may take fewer sessions to treat than a larger piece, while dense ink, multiple colours, or areas that need a more cautious approach can require a more tailored plan.

Because every tattoo is different, there is no fixed price. The most accurate way to understand the cost of tattoo removal is through a consultation, where your clinician can assess the tattoo and estimate what treatment may involve. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 Does laser tattoo removal hurt?

Laser tattoo removal can feel uncomfortable, but most people find the sensation tolerable. It is often compared to a small rubber band snapping rapidly against the skin. Cooling and comfort measures may be used during treatment to help manage sensitivity when required.

Can a tattoo be removed in one session?

In almost all cases, no. Tattoos need multiple sessions so the ink can be broken down gradually and the skin can heal in between. The exact number depends on the individual tattoo.

Is laser tattoo removal safe?

Laser tattoo removal is a widely used treatment, but like any laser procedure, it carries potential risks. These can include temporary redness, swelling, blistering, pigment changes, or scarring.

At Victorian Dermal Group, treatment is performed by accredited dermal clinicians using appropriate laser settings for your tattoo and skin type. Before starting a full treatment plan, we may also patch test the laser on a small area to assess how your skin responds. Your consultation will help determine whether treatment is suitable for you.

 

Book a laser tattoo removal consultation with Victorian Dermal Group

Tattoo removal is a gradual process, and the right approach depends on the tattoo and how your body responds over time. At Victorian Dermal Group, we take a personalised, clinically guided approach, thoroughly assessing your skin before recommending a treatment plan.

Book a consultation to understand what laser tattoo removal could involve for you, including suitability, expected sessions, aftercare, and cost.