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How Long Does it Take to Remove a Tattoo?

Do you have a tattoo that has stopped making you happy? You can erase it with laser tattoo removal. While laser tattoo removal is very effective, it usually takes multiple sessions to achieve full results. Each tattoo is unique, so the removal timeline will vary, but you can expect satisfying results.

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

Tattoos last because the body cannot remove the large pigment particles used to create them. Laser tattoo removal works by targeting these pigments and breaking them apart. We use the Enlighten™ laser, a customizable system that can target even the most stubborn ink colors. The laser energy does not affect your skin, but the pigments absorb heat, breaking them into pieces. Your body will then filter away the pieces to remove the color.

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How Long Does it Take to Remove a Tattoo?

Tattoos will begin to fade after as little as one session. Most people need between two and eight treatments to achieve the removal they want. The number of treatments depends on several factors, including:

The size of your tattoo
The density of the ink
The age of your tattoo
Whether an amateur or professional created your tattoo

With our Tattoo Removal Guarantee, if your tattoo is not gone within eight sessions, we will not charge you for further treatments. We are committed to removing your tattoo as quickly and efficiently as possible.

After each session, your skin will need at least four to six weeks to heal. This recovery time makes tattoo removal a journey that can last a year or more. Fortunately, the pigments have been removed, not hidden, so they will never reappear.

If you do not mind having a tattoo but would prefer a different one, fading a tattoo takes fewer sessions than removal and lets your tattoo artist work more freely when creating a cover-up. Consider this option if you already have plans for another tattoo, but the ideal spot is already occupied.

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

The Enlighten™ laser causes much less heat and discomfort than older, less efficient lasers. We use numbing cream and cooling to ensure you do not feel any pain. We can also inject a topical anesthetic if needed for maximum comfort.

Laser Tattoo Removal Consultations Available

What is Recovery Like From Laser Tattoo Removal?

You can return to your usual activities after treatment, but the treated area will require aftercare. How well you follow instructions will determine how you heal. You will have an antibiotic cream to apply to the area several times a day, and we will instruct you to avoid sun exposure while your skin heals.

Am I a Candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?

If you have a tattoo you want to fade or remove, you most likely make a good candidate for laser skin removal. The skin above and around your tattoo should be generally healthy. Good candidates have reasonable expectations about their final results.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

We love hearing from our patients!

Read some of our reviews below to see why we are the most trusted authority in laser tattoo removal services.

☆☆☆☆☆ 5/5

Customer service was outstanding, Lisa was extremely professional, informative, understanding and easy to talk to. I will definitely be back....

Always courteous and professional. Goes out of their way to help with health concerns other than what you went there for....

Great office! everyone was very pleasant. The front desk alone is 5 stars! Look forward to going to my next appointment....

Elizabeth is extremely professional and very kind. I give all of the staff 5 stars....

Take the Next Step

To schedule your in-person laser tattoo removal consultation, call New York Skin & Vein Centers at (607) 431-2525 or simply fill out the form on this page. We look forward to working with you.