Frequently Asked Questions
How much does laser tattoo removal cost?
For many individuals, cost plays a huge role in whether they move forward with their tattoo removal journey. When it comes to pricing in this industry, Ink Free offers the most affordable and competitive prices. We feel as though cost should not be the reason why someone has to live with ink they regret or simply no longer want.
How many sessions does it take to remove a tattoo?
Tattoo removal can be unpredictable. There are several factors to take into account when it comes to laser tattoo removal, such as age and ink density of the tattoo, color of inks used, professional vs homemade and location of the tattoo. The average tattoo removal is 7-15 sessions but this can vary.
Is the procedure painful?
Laser tattoo removal is uncomfortable, but bearable. Most clients will compare the sensation to a rubber band snapping on the skin. Every individual is different. Ink Free uses the Zimmer Cryo, which is the most popular numbing method used when it comes to laser tattoo removal. The Zimmer Cryo is a powerful chilling machine that blows extremely cold air onto the skin before and during the procedure. If you are looking to use a topical numbing cream prior to your appointment, please make sure the technician is aware.
Will there be any skin damage or scarring?
Many clients are concerned about skin damage and/or scarring from laser tattoo removal. The goal is to make the skin look as natural as possible after the removal is complete. If the tattoo is already scarred and raised, expect that to remain. If the tattoo has any textural issues, expect that to remain as well. Scarring that remains after the tattoo removal process derives from when the tattoo was originally applied. Ink Free utilizes the proper laser protocols to ensure that the skin looks as natural as possible after the tattoo is fully removed. Aftercare also plays a big part in unwanted side effects. Picking scabs or not caring properly for blisters can allow scarring to occur. Individuals who have a history of keloids may be predisposed to scarring.
Can my tattoo be lightened up for a coverup?
The answer is yes! Many individuals are not looking for complete removal of their tattoo, but instead are looking to lighten the tattoo enough for a coverup. Ink Free can fade the entire tattoo prior to a coverup or even specific parts of the tattoo you no longer want. Tattoo fading requires fewer sessions than tattoo removal. Often times, two to three sessions is adequate enough to fade the tattoo significantly.
Are there any side effects?
Most individuals can expect some level of side effects, such as:
Tenderness
Swelling
Redness
Bruising
Blistering and scabs
Hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation
Hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation occur when the body's production of melanin becomes unbalanced. With hypopigmentation, the body's melanin is drained by the laser and the treated area appears much lighter in color. With hyperpigmentation, the body overproduces melanin, causing the treated area too appear darker than usual. Both hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation are usually temporary and resolve naturally over time.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
The laser gives off pulses which omit light energy into your skin. Different wavelengths are used depending on the color of the ink. As the light energy hits your skin, it is observed by the tattoo ink particles, which sits in the skins dermis. Once absorbed, the ink then shatters into tiny fragments. From there, the ink particulars are small enough that your bodys immune system flushes it away over the following several weeks. Each laser sessions breaks down more and more ink.