Laser Tattoo Removal
Book Now View PricingAt Halcyon Cosmetic Clinic we specialize in the removal of amateur and professional body tattoos, medical tattoos and cosmetic tattoos. Although we’re located in Port Moody, clients come to us from Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and other parts of the Lower Mainland for laser tattoo removal treatments.
Our state-of-the-art Lumenis M22 Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser – considered by many to be the best tattoo removal laser – safely and effectively eliminates tattoo pigment by pulsing powerful laser energy into pigment molecules. This breaks them into smaller fragments that can be absorbed and cleared by your lymphatic system.
Tattoos must be at least 6 weeks old to undergo laser tattoo removal (for tattoos requiring removal within 48 hours, please see our emergency saline removal options) and treatments must be spaced a minimum of 8 weeks apart.
Your specific treatment plan, and the success of your treatments will depend upon many factors, including:
- Size of tattoo
- Age of tattoo
- Depth of tattoo
- Location of tattoo
- Type of pigment used
- Pigment density
- Pigment colour
- Your skin type
If you’re unsure if laser tattoo removal is right for you, please book a complimentary consultation.
Laser Tattoo Removal FAQ
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
In most cases, topical anaesthetic makes the procedure quite tolerable. Should your tattoo be large, we will refer you to a physician for treatment using an injectable anaesthetic.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
Laser energy targets and breaks up molecules of pigment and disrupts the cells in your skin that hold onto pigment. Once these molecules are fragmented and released by the cells, they are cleared from the area via your lymphatic system.
How many sessions will it take?
Tattoos are meant to be permanent, so lightening and removal take patience. It is common to take at least 5 sessions and, in some cases, many more.
How often can I have laser tattoo removal?
We recommend 8 weeks between sessions to ensure your skin has time to fully recover. This minimizes the chance of forming scar tissue and gives your lymphatic system time to clear treated pigment from the area.
When will I see results?
Results take time but changes can usually be seen after one or two treatments.
Does the colour of my tattoo matter?
Yes. Black tattoos will respond the best and light colours that contain titanium dioxide (white pigment) will rarely respond.
How soon can I remove my tattoo?
If you have instant tattoo regret, call us right away! Although we cannot do laser removal until your tattoo is at least 6 weeks old we can do emergency saline removal within the first 48 hours to help you get a head start.
What should I expect after treatment?
During treatment, the water within your skin cells is heated rapidly, causing steam and a frosted white look on the surface of your tattoo. Over several minutes this subsides, and the treated area may appear reddened and develop almost a blood-blistered look. In some cases, blistering may occur.
What will it feel like after treatment?
As your anaesthetic wears off, the area will feel very similar to a burn.
How should I take care of the area?
Treat the area as you would an open wound. Keep it clean and dry, except for any healing ointment we may give you. You must apply and reapply SPF to any tattoo that will be exposed to the sun. This should be continued between treatments until your tattoo removal treatments are complete.