Laser Tattoo Removal

Free Consultation: Call us at 210-494-SKIN (7546)

The freedom to express ourselves with a tattoo was a gift we had in our youth. Many people come to regret this decision later or some may wish to just clear a tattoo for another. Tattoo removal has become a very popular and mainstream aesthetic procedure. Early attempts to remove tattoos have had less than desirable results. The use of dermabrasion, saltabrasion and Argon or CO2 have left behind scarring. Today’s technology uses Q-switched lasers that permit the removal of many tattoo inks with very low risk of scarring. However, not all Q-switched lasers are created equal. Most tattoo removing lasers in the industry only have one wavelength, which can cause scarring and can only effectively remove blacks and blues. Our new Q-switch C6 laser is a multiple wavelength laser that can effectively treat ALL COLORS safely and with very little risk of scarring.

Skin Concepts Laser Center has the most technologically advanced laser tattoo removal system available and the only one in San Antonio!

MedLite Laser Tattoo Removal Delivery System

Our Q-switched laser permits the removal of most tattoo inks with a very low risk of scarring

The MedLite laser can significantly lighten or remove a wide variety of tattoo inks

These laser handpieces allow conversion of the different wavelengths in order to treat different colors. This helps expand different treatment options for our clients.

Laser Tattoo Removal FAQ'S

1. How does Laser Tattoo removal work?

The Laser is used to selectively target and destroy the tattoo pigment without damaging the surrounding tissue. The tattoo ink pigment is removed by absorbing the specific wavelength of Laser light energy which passes through the skin. The rapid absorption of light energy causes the ink pigment to break into tiny particles which can then be removed by the body's natural filtering system. Our advanced Laser system can effectively treat the following colors:

Wavelength Color targeted

1064nm Black & Dark Blue

585nm Sky Blue

650nm Green, Turquoise & some Yellows

532nm Red & Orange

2. Why SCLC for Tattoo Removal?

Simply put, because our Q-switched multiple wavelength Nd:YAG laser is the laser of choice in the medical field. Our personnel are highly trained insuring you the best treatment with the most effective and safest results possible.

3. What type of Tattoos can be removed?

Our laser can remove professional, amateur (homemade), traumatic and surgical tattoos. All skin types are amenable to tattoo removal, even very dark skin.

4. What is the cost for Laser Tattoo removal?

This will depend of the size of the Tattoo. The charge for the first 2 square inches is $100 (minimum). There is an additional charge for each additional inch, HOWEVER, the price per inch decreases proportionately with increasing Tattoo size. The applicable charge can really only be accessed during a consultation due to the tremendous diversity and geometry of tattoos. Larger Tattoos that are not completely filled in will be price adjusted accordingly. As always, consultations are always FREE!

5. How many treatments will it take to remove a tattoo?

On average, professional tattoos require approximately 8 treatments while amateur tattoos require 6-8 treatments, spaced approximately 4 weeks apart. The number of treatments depends on the amount and type of ink used, color, as well as the depth of the ink in the skin.

6. Are all colors removed equally?

Black, Dark Blue and Red will resolve the best. Oranges, Purples and Sky Blue may take additional treatments. Green, turquoise and especially Yellow inks are the most difficult to remove and additional treatments are needed to produce near total fading.

7. Will the Tattoo completely disappear?

In many cases, yes. Greater than 95% fading of the tattoo may be accomplished. However, it is important to know that there are many types of tattoo inks in use worldwide today, none of which are regulated by the FDA. Not knowing which tattoo ink was used, or how deeply it was applied, makes it impossible to predict the degree of removal on any given tattoo.

8. Is the process painful?

The laser emits light in very short pulses. The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light can be uncomfortable. At SCLC we apply a cold airflow application during the process that markedly reduces the discomfort - usually to a mild level. Everyone has a different pain tolerance but most will find the procedure tolerable. Anesthesia creams are available but there effectiveness is very limited. For small tattoos, the procedure can be performed under local Anesthesia.

9. What will my skin look like after treatment?

Immediately after a treatment, there will be a white discoloration of the skin over the tattoo which then becomes slightly red with a minimal amount of swelling. Occasionally, there may be pinpoint bleeding. An antibacterial ointment and a dressing will be applied to the area after the procedure. The treated area should be kept clean. A shower can be taken the next day, although the treated area should never be scrubbed. If a scab forms, leave it alone. It is essential that sun exposure be limited during treatment. It is important to note that the tattoo may actually appear darker for the first few days following the procedure.

10. Are there any side effects?

Occasionally , hypo-pigmentation (lightening of the skin) may occur. But normal skin color should return within 6-12 months following your last treatment session. Rarely, hyper-pigmentation (darkening of the skin) can occur which usually also resolves over time. Scarring has been an issue until now - with our new C6 Q-switch laser, scarring is virtually eliminated.

Free Consultation: Call us at 210-494-SKIN (7546)