Regret your tattoo, have a cover-up that didn't turn out quite right, or just want a fresh start? A tattoo you're no longer happy with can be a nuisance, but luckily, you can easily have it removed with a laser.
At New Skin Laserclinic in Amsterdam, we use modern laser technology designed to break down ink particles in the skin without leaving scars. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about laser tattoo removal: how it works, how many treatments you’ll typically need, how much it costs, what results you can expect, and what aftercare is important.
What do you find out?
- 1 How does laser tattoo removal work?
- 2 How long does it take to remove a tattoo?
- 3 Experiences and Results of Tattoo Removal
- 4 Possible Side Effects After Laser Tattoo Removal
- 5 Preparing for Laser Tattoo Removal: What Should You Do Beforehand?
- 6 Costs of Laser Tattoo Removal
- 7 Can You Remove a Tattoo in the Summer?
- 8 Myths About Removing Tattoos Yourself
- 9 Why Remove a Tattoo with a Laser?
- 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Tattoo Removal:
- 10.1 How long does a laser treatment take?
- 10.2 Does it hurt to have a tattoo removed with a laser?
- 10.3 Can I remove a tattoo that was just done?
- 10.4 Can I have a tattoo removed with a laser if I have dark skin?
- 10.5 What if my tattoo has a lot of colors?
- 10.6 Can I exercise after treatment?
- 10.7 Can I get reimbursement for tattoo removal?
- 11 Want to have a tattoo removed by laser in Amsterdam?
How does laser tattoo removal work?
When removing a tattoo with a laser, short, rapid pulses of light are directed at the tattoo. This laser light is absorbed by the tattoo ink, causing the ink to break down into tiny particles. These tiny ink particles can then be eliminated as waste, causing the tattoo to fade little by little and eventually disappear completely.
Important to know:
- The results are not immediate after a single treatment. The fading occurs gradually and is usually visible after a few weeks.
- Tattoo removal is done in sessions, with breaks in between to allow the skin to heal.
- Different colors react differently to laser energy.
Tattoo Removal in Amsterdam? Stop by New Skin Laserclinic for a free consultation.
Tattoo Removal Using FracTAT® Technology and the Nd:YAG Laser
At New Skin Laserclinic, we use the latest techniques and equipment to remove your tattoo, namely FracTAT® technology and the Nd:YAG laser. The Nd:YAG laser is ideal for the safe and effective removal of tattoos. Thanks to the FracTAT® technique, the laser is precisely targeted at the ink, ensuring that the surrounding skin remains undamaged. This results in a smoother recovery, a shorter healing period, and a lower risk of side effects. This allows tattoos to be removed in a controlled and responsible manner.
How long does it take to remove a tattoo?
How many tattoo removal sessions are needed?
The number of treatments needed to remove a tattoo depends on a number of factors. On average, it takes 5 to 10 laser treatments to completely remove a tattoo. With some small, black tattoos, you’ll see results quickly; large, colorful tattoos usually require more treatments.
The number of sessions you'll need to remove your tattoo depends on the following factors:
- Color(s) and type of ink
- Size and Coverage
- Location on the body
- Skin Type and Recovery Rate
- Personal Immune System
- The age of the tattoo
Break between sessions
There is often a break of 8 to 12 weeks between sessions. How quickly the body eliminates the released ink particles varies from person to person. On average, this process takes about 8 weeks, which means the results of a treatment are only clearly visible after that period. That is why we ideally schedule laser treatments with an interval of 8 to 12 weeks. Treating sooner offers no added benefit, because the body has not yet fully processed the ink.
In our other article, we explain in detail how long it takes to remove a tattoo.
Experiences and Results of Tattoo Removal
Are you curious about what to expect from a laser treatment for your tattoo? After the session, the tattoo may temporarily appear darker or have a “chalky” appearance (depending on the ink). The tattoo will gradually fade in the weeks that follow and eventually disappear completely with multiple treatments. Read our customers’ stories here or view the results of tattoo removal at New Skin Laserclinic right away.
Possible side effects after laser tattoo removal
After having a tattoo removed, you may experience some side effects. These side effects are normal and often go away within a few days.
Possible side effects after tattoo removal include:
- Redness and swelling
- Sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Scabs or small blisters (don't scratch them)
- Itching
- Temporary darkening or lightening of the skin
Proper Aftercare Following Tattoo Removal
Proper aftercare following laser tattoo removal is crucial for a successful recovery and optimal results. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Don't scratch the scabs
- Keep the area dry and clean
- Avoid the sauna, the pool, excessive sweating during exercise, and taking a shower that's too hot immediately after the treatment.
- Protect your skin from the sun with a good SPF and cover it with clothing throughout the entire treatment period (and do not use a tanning bed).
In our other article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the proper aftercare following tattoo removal. In addition, our experienced skin therapists will explain everything you need to know about aftercare following your treatment, and you’re always welcome to ask any questions you may have.
Preparing for Tattoo Removal: What Should You Do Beforehand?
To ensure the best results and minimize risks, there are a few things you should do before your laser treatment:
- Avoid the sun and tanning beds (preferably for several weeks beforehand; follow your protocol)
- Do not use self-tanner right before the treatment
- Please arrive with clean skin (no body lotion or perfume on the treatment area)
- Wear clothing that makes it easy to expose the area
- Always report any medications or skin conditions in advance
Tattoo Removal Costs
How much does it cost to have a tattoo removed with a laser? For many people, the cost of laser tattoo removal is an important consideration. With laser tattoo removal, you pay per session, so the cost of completely removing a tattoo depends on the number of treatments required. In addition, the cost of laser tattoo removal also depends on the size of the tattoo. View the prices for tattoo removal here.
Wondering how much it will cost to remove your tattoo? Easily calculate the cost of completely removing your tattoo using our cost estimate tool.
Can you get a tattoo removed in the summer?
It’s often thought that laser tattoo removal isn’t possible in the summer. Fortunately, it is definitely possible to remove a tattoo in the summer, so you don’t have to hide your tattoo all summer long. However, it’s important to be extra careful in the summer and to protect your tattoo well from the sun. You can easily do this by covering your tattoo with clothing or taping it over with a band-aid.
In our other article, we'll tell you more about getting a tattoo removed in the summer and everything you need to keep in mind.
Myths About Removing Tattoos Yourself
There are many myths circulating about removing a tattoo yourself, such as:
- Removing a Tattoo with Lemon
- Removing a Tattoo with Salt
- Tattoo Removal with Lactic Acid
- Removing a Tattoo with a Scrub
In reality, these methods do not penetrate deep enough into the ink layer in the skin and therefore cannot remove the tattoo. What they do cause, however, is skin irritation, burns, or scarring. It is therefore very important not to try to remove your tattoo yourself, because this will only cause more problems
Tattoo removal with cream
In addition, many people believe that you can remove a tattoo with a cream. The only temporary way to remove a tattoo with a cream is by using something like foundation. There is no cream that can permanently remove a tattoo.
Why Remove a Tattoo with a Laser?
Are you unsure about having your tattoo removed with a laser? Laser treatment is the most effective and safest way to remove your tattoo. Discover the benefits of laser tattoo removal below:
- Most Effective and Safest Treatment
- Tattoo Removal Without Scars
- Targets specifically the ink particles in the skin, without causing unnecessary damage to the surrounding skin
- Suitable for both small and large tattoos
- Treatment is quick and controlled
- Suitable for all skin types and ink colors
Frequently Asked Questions About Tattoo Removal:
How long does a laser treatment take?
A laser treatment session is usually fairly short; it can range from a few minutes for a small treatment to a little longer for a large tattoo.
Does it hurt to have a tattoo removed with a laser?
Tattoo removal is usually not considered painful. You can compare it to small rubber bands snapping against the skin. At New Skin Laserclinic, we use a Zimmer Cool device that makes the treatment up to 75% less sensitive.
Can I remove a tattoo that was just done?
A freshly inked tattoo usually cannot be lasered right away. The skin first needs time to fully recover from the tattooing process. Only once the skin has healed—usually after a few weeks—can laser treatment safely begin. During an initial consultation, we assess the condition of the skin and advise you on when it is safe to begin removal.
Can I have a tattoo removed with a laser if I have dark skin?
Yes, at New Skin Laserclinic, we can safely treat any skin type.
What if my tattoo has a lot of colors?
Colors react differently. Black is often the easiest; some colors are more stubborn. We’ll create a personalized treatment plan for you in advance so you know exactly what to expect.
Can I exercise after the treatment?
It is often advisable to avoid intense exercise for a short time immediately after treatment due to sweating and friction.
Can I get reimbursement for tattoo removal?
In most cases, tattoo removal is not covered by health insurance because it is considered a cosmetic procedure.
Do you want to get rid of your tattoo quickly and safely? Have your tattoo professionally removed with a laser by experienced skin therapists at New Skin Laserclinic
Want to have a tattoo removed by laser in Amsterdam?
Would you like to have your tattoo removed in Amsterdam? At New Skin Laserclinic, we specialize in laser tattoo removal and work exclusively with certified skin therapists and specialists. During a free initial consultation, we’ll tell you everything about the treatment and always create a personalized treatment plan just for you. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect from us and can ask any questions you may have. Curious about how we can best help you? Schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation.