If you have an unwanted tattoo, we can help you.
We have a state of the art laser machine in our Dublin 7 shop and Jason, owner of Pins n Needles is highly experienced in the laser removal of tattoos of all types and sizes.
We have put together a list of the common questions we get about laser tattoo removal. If you are considering this procedure please read all of the following.
If you still feel unsure or want to get a free consultation, visit our shop (189 Phibsboro Road), or you can phone us on 01 830 84 11.
How long does it take?
Laser tattoo removal is a 4 week process. If having more than one session, you will need to give the treated area a 4 week healing period before undergoing either another laser removal session or a cover-up tattoo.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on several factors, most obvious being the size of the tattoo. It is very important to note that there are 3 colours (red, green and blue) which are extremely difficult to remove. Tattoo’s on the fingers can be easily removed unless they contain red, green or blue ink. Sessions are typically an hour long.
To get the most accurate estimation of time/sessions needed, call into our shop for a consultation with Jason.
Is it painful?
Pain from laser tattoo removal varies from person to person and can also be effected by where the tattoo is located. Most people report however that it is only slightly more painful than getting a tattoo. Also each session is typically an hour or less in duration. There is numbing cream available over the counter from most pharmacies which can be applied to the skin 30 minutes before you undergo your treatment if you are particularly sensitive to pain.
What will my skin be like after the session and during healing?
Aftercare is covered in the next question
During: While you are undergoing laser tattoo removal, you will notice small white dots raised from the skin in the tattoo as the light beams remove the pigments of colour in the tattoo.
After: You may notice the following on the treated area after tattoo laser removal:
- White raised ‘specks’ on the treated area.
- Blood dots on the treated area.
- Blistering in some parts – VERY IMPORTANT: DO NOT BURST THE BLISTER!!
- Minor bruising or redness in/around the treated area.
Healing Process: Over the 4 week period following treatment, the tattoo that was lasered will start to fade.
What aftercare do I need to do?
Most important: PLEASE DO NOT BURST ANY BLISTERS. You must allow any blisters that appear to reduce over time gradually – you risk a bad infection if you burst any blisters. If you do burst the blister, do not remove the skin from the blister. Lightly allow the skin to settle back over the area of the blister. Apply a light covering that is raised just slightly above the blister. This is to protect the burst blister from particles of dust and dirt, whilst allowing it air to heal properly.
On the day of treatment: After you arrive home, very gently wash the treated area with warm, soapy water. Use soap like Dove (non-fragranced). Gently rinse the area with warm water and gently pat dry with a clean towel. Apply Bepanthen cream (available over the counter) by massaging into the area, being careful not to burst any blisters. Do not cover the area with bandages or rough clothing (like wool) or it will become irritated.
Aftercare: Follow these steps three times a day for four weeks:
- Gently wash with clean, warm, soapy water.
- Gently pat dry with a clean towel.
- Apply Bepanthen cream by massaging into the area, be careful not to burst any blisters.
- Do not cover with bandages or rough clothing.
The rules of common sense applies – no picking, scratching, rubbing, swimming or sunbathing. PLEASE KEEP TREATED AREA’S OUT OF SUNLIGHT / SUNBEDS. Do not apply any tanning lotions, ointments or tinted moisturizers. Do not allow it to come into contact with make-up or hair sprays, colourants or styling products/gels.
What do I do if it becomes infected?
An infected tattoo removal will appear with excessive redness, itchiness and discomfort. If you feel your treatment has become infected, visit us immediately and we will take a look and advise you.
How much does it cost?
Start from €20 per session.
To arrange your free consultation and/or laser tattoo removal appointment, call us on 01 830 84 11 -or- 085 100 4626.