Tattoos are a form of self-expression practiced by many. However, they're subject to change as people age, and their skins and bodies change. 

Some of them reach a point where they are no longer satisfied with their tattoos or feel they represent them correctly. This is when they opt for laser tattoo removals.

If you're thinking about having a tattoo removed using laser technology and are wondering how many sessions it takes, this article is for you.

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

Laser tattoo removal uses a process called photothermolysis. This involves using a laser to break the ink inside your tattoo. The light in the laser creates heat that causes the ink to break apart or melt.

This ink has been inserted into your skin's dermal layer, making it quite challenging to remove. The laser beam breaks the ink into particles of a size that can come out of the skin with your body's natural processes.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

The number of treatments you'll require depends on your tattoo and body. Three major factors determine how many sessions are necessary. These factors are:

Tattoo size and location

The bigger the tattoo and the area it covers, the more treatments you're going to need. A large tattoo will also require more time for each treatment, which means more sessions. However, the number of treatments for a smaller tattoo can be determined by the color and ink type.

Tattoo color and ink type

Your tattoo might need more treatments if applied from the beginning using a multiple needle gun. This is because it creates more ink to be broken up, thus requiring more sessions.

Skin type

Your tattoo's ink can also be harder to remove depending on your skin type. Those with thicker skin usually require more treatments.

There are cases where people with sensitive skin complain of skin irritation and pain during the treatment process. The tattoo removal process is invasive and requires concentration, focus, and a delicate touch. 

What to Expect from Laser Tattoo Removal Treatments

As mentioned, removing tattoos with lasers is often four to six weeks apart, and it's common to still see traces of ink on your skin, called ghost tattoos. There are times that you may need more sessions.

Here are the main things you should expect during your sessions:

• The area around the tattoo will be shaved and cleaned to reduce the risk of infection.

• A topical cream containing lidocaine may be applied to the area to numb it.

• A tattoo-removal machine will be used to target and damage the ink in the tattoo.

• Each treatment can last from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the tattoo's size and location.

• The process may cause irritation, redness, a burning sensation, and even pain.

• You may also experience scabbing and blistering. But these will heal within a week or two.

• The laser can also cause some irritation to the skin. This may lead to some scarring.

Conclusion

Laser tattoo removal is a successful procedure that can get rid of your tattoos. So, if you have a tattoo that you're not happy with, you should know that there is a chance that you may need more than one session of laser tattoo removal to get rid of it completely. Be prepared.

Certified Tattoo Studios has made its mark as Colorado's premier tattoo destination, with three locations growing. At Certified, we make it more accessible, cheaper, and convenient to access laser tattoo removal without dealing with oddly medically-based services. We see tattoo fading as an opportunity to move onto some brand new artwork that’s just as timeless as your skin is. So if you’re looking for a tattoo shop in Colorado that offers laser tattoo removal, get in touch with us! Schedule an appointment now.