FAQ

How does laser tattoo removal work?

Using the Quanta Q Switch Studio Laser, the best laser available, a laser pulse is aimed at the tattoo and passes harmlessly through the skin. The laser targets the tattoo pigment, leaving the surrounding skin virtually untouched. The energy from the beam is transferred to the ink which breaks into small particles fading the tattoo, and is removed from the body by the immune system.

Who will do the removal?

The laser tattoo removal will be performed by Heather Creed. Heather is a licensed laser operator who is trained and certified, specifically for this type of procedure.

How many treatments will it take to remove my tattoo?

This is our most commonly asked question and the hardest to answer without seeing the tattoo, that is why we offer a FREE consultation to give you all the information you need to make your decision. There are many factors that contribute to the number of sessions required to remove your tattoo. The factors involved include: skin type, location, colors, amount of ink, scarring and tissue change as well as the layering of tattoos. The range varies from 3-15, but could go higher or lower depending on the factors previously listed. If you would like to get an unofficial estimate, please email [email protected] so Heather can do an online consultation.

How long do I need to wait between treatments?

Generally about 10-12 weeks for the body to remove the ink and to completely heal the area.

Can you remove 100% of every tattoo?

We can remove most tattoos 100%, but unfortunately not all. It depends on many factors (see “How many treatments will it take to remove my tattoo?” answer above). In addition, there are many, many types of tattoo inks in use worldwide today, none of which are regulated by the FDA.

We wish we could, but anyone who tells you otherwise is trying to sell you a service they cannot provide.

This is why we provide a FREE consultation so you know all the facts before you start the process. We want to ensure you have all the information you need to make the right decision for you.

Will it hurt?

Both getting tattoos and having them taken off can be uncomfortable. The impact of the energy from the laser's pulse of light has been described as the same feeling you get when hot specks of bacon grease hit your skin - or being snapped by a rubber band. But don't worry. At Cape Cod Laser, we make sure to make the process is as painless as possible. We use a state-of-the-art Zimmer Cooling machine to cool the skin to 20° C before and during the process, minimizing the discomfort.

Our certified laser operator will make sure that you have the best experience with the removal.

Will it scar?

The chances of scarring are very small (less than 5%) if all the after-care instructions are followed. These include:

For the first 24 hours – Apply ice if you feel discomfort and avoid the sun and swimming.

After the first 24 hours – Keep the area clean and out of the sun for the time while it is healing.