604-937-2626
 

Laser Tattoo Removal

Safe, Targeted Pigment Clearing

Understanding Tattoo Removal Outcomes & Planning

Tattoos can lose relevance over time. What once felt meaningful, practical, or aesthetically right may no longer align with how you want your skin to look or feel now.

At Halcyon Cosmetic & Skin Studio, laser tattoo removal is approached as a measured, skin-first process, whether the goal is full removal, partial fading, or preparing the area for correction or redesign. This includes traditional body tattoos, medical tattoos, and permanent makeup — each of which behaves differently and requires a tailored approach.

Clients visit Halcyon from Port Moody, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Greater Vancouver seeking discreet, professional tattoo removal guided by realistic planning rather than rushed promises.

Laser Tattoo Removal Goals

  • Gradual fading of unwanted tattoo pigment
  • Targeted treatment that preserves surrounding skin
  • Safe removal of old permanent makeup pigment for correction

  • Predictable healing between sessions
  • Conservative protocols that minimize skin trauma
  • Discreet, non-judgemental care

How Laser Tattoo Removal Works

Laser tattoo removal works by sending powerful pulses of energy into the white blood cells (macrophages) in your skin that hold the tattoo ink. This energy causes the cells to burst, releasing the pigment into the extracellular space, where your body’s lymphatic system gradually clears it. This process is cumulative and depends on factors such as ink type, colour, depth, skin tone, and how the tattoo was originally applied.

Because pigment behaviour varies — especially between traditional body tattoos and permanent makeup — treatments are spaced intentionally to allow full healing between sessions. Over-treatment can increase inflammation, scarring risk, or pigment alteration, particularly with cosmetic tattoo inks.

At Halcyon, energy levels and session timing are selected conservatively to support safe fading, predictable healing, and protection of future treatment options. Most tattoos require multiple sessions, and timelines vary based on individual response.

Duration

15 – 60 minutes per session.

Sessions

Optimal results in 3 – 5 sessions or more, spaced 10+ weeks apart.

Results

Permanent lightening and removal of amateur or professional tattoos.

Price Range

$195 – $650+ depending on size of tattoo.

Have questions about this treatment?

604-937-2626

Book Now
Book a Consultation

Related Treatments

    Ask a Question


    Characters remaining: 350

    Laser Tattoo Removal FAQ

    How many laser tattoo removal sessions will I need?

    It depends on the tattoo’s size, depth, ink saturation, and colour. Most traditional tattoos fade significantly within 3–8 sessions; some may require more. We assess your tattoo carefully and provide a realistic plan — never inflated estimates or unnecessary treatments.

    Does laser tattoo removal hurt?

    It certainly can, but treatments are brief, and we use topical numbing and cooling when appropriate. Our goal is to keep you as comfortable as possible while protecting your skin.

    What kind of laser do you use?

    We use a medical-grade, Health Canada–approved Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, considered a gold standard for tattoo removal.
    Not all lasers on the market are regulated or appropriate for pigment removal — device quality directly affects both safety and results.
    Your skin deserves technology that is proven, safe, and evidence-based.

    Are all providers trained the same way?

    No. Laser tattoo removal is offered by people with very different training backgrounds.
    At Halcyon, treatments are performed by experienced, medically trained professionals with advanced laser physics and pigment science knowledge. Technique, judgment, and proper laser settings are essential to achieving good results while protecting your skin.
    We believe this is work that requires both training and care — never guesswork.

    Should I buy an “unlimited sessions” package from other clinics?

    Be cautious.
    Unlimited-session packages often encourage far more treatments than your skin actually needs, which can overstress tissue and increase risks like hypopigmentation or textural changes.
    We space sessions intentionally and treat only when your skin is ready — not according to a sales package.
    More treatments are not better treatments.

    More FAQ

    Can you remove coloured ink?

    We can effectively treat black and other dark pigments, which respond very well to Q-switched Nd:YAG technology.
    Lighter pigments — such as red, orange, yellow, and some pastels — are more resistant and may not respond predictably to this type of laser. During your consultation, we’ll assess your tattoo and explain what level of fading is realistic for its specific colours.
    Our priority is honesty and safe expectations — we’ll never promise fading that isn’t achievable with our equipment.

    Is laser tattoo removal safe for darker or melanin-rich skin tones?

    Yes — with the correct technology and settings.
    Health Canada–approved Nd:YAG lasers are among the safest options for melanin-rich skin because they can target ink selectively while minimizing risk to surrounding tissue.

    Will laser removal damage my skin?

    When performed with proper training and conservative settings, laser removal is safe.
    Poorly trained providers, overly aggressive settings, or unregulated lasers increase the risk of scarring or pigment changes. Our approach is slower, measured, and grounded in skin health — not speed.

    How long does it take to see results?

    Most tattoos begin to fade within 1 or 2 sessions, with results building gradually as your immune system clears the ink. Sessions are spaced 8-12 weeks apart to protect your skin.

    Can laser tattoo removal help prepare a tattoo for a cover-up?

    Absolutely. Lightening a tattoo first gives your artist more flexibility and allows for a cleaner, more modern cover-up. We can time your sessions to align with your artist’s recommendations.

    Can you remove or lighten permanent makeup (old brows, eyeliner, lips)?

    Yes. We safely lighten or remove old cosmetic tattoos, especially brows that need correction before redesign. Some pigments respond differently, so we assess depth, colour, and undertones first.

    Is laser tattoo removal safe for older or thinner skin?

    Yes. Mature skin can be treated safely with correctly adjusted energy settings and thoughtful spacing. We take special care to avoid overstressing delicate areas.

    Is there downtime?

    Minimal. Expect mild redness, swelling, or flaking for 3–7 days. Proper aftercare ensures the best healing and fading.

    How should I prepare for my appointment?

    • Avoid sun exposure and self-tanner
    • Arrive with clean, lotion-free skin
    • Pause retinol and exfoliants
    • Stay hydrated

    Good preparation leads to smoother treatments and better outcomes.

    How should I care for my skin afterward?

    • Keep the area clean and dry
    • Apply the recommended ointment
    • Avoid picking or rubbing
    • Protect from sun exposure
    • Avoid heat, hot tubs, or intense exercise for 24–48 hours

    Proper aftercare supports fading and minimizes risk.

    Are there tattoos that can’t be fully removed?

    Some inks — such as dense non-regulated pigments or PMU containing titanium dioxide — may respond more slowly or only lighten partially. If complete removal isn’t realistic, we will always be honest and offer alternative options.

    X