Tattoo Removal
Picosecond laser tattoo removal uses ultra-short pulses of light to break tattoo ink into smaller particles that your body gradually clears. Whether you want to remove an unwanted tattoo or lighten it for a future cover-up, treatment works progressively over a series of appointments.
- Picosecond technology
- Targeted ink breakdown
- Gradual fading
- Removal or lightening
- Time varies by size
- Small tattoos may take just minutes to treat; larger designs take longer
- A planned series
- The number of sessions depends on your tattoo and its response
- Fading between visits
- Your body continues clearing fragmented ink after treatment
- Healing time matters
- Appointments are spaced to allow skin recovery and ink clearance
Tattoo Removal results
1 before-and-after set from Relax Med patients, published with their consent, are in the results gallery.
How it works
Breaking down the ink, one treatment at a time
Tattoo ink sits beneath the skin’s surface. Picosecond lasers deliver extremely short pulses of energy that create a rapid pressure effect, breaking ink particles into smaller fragments. Your body’s immune system then gradually clears some of these fragments, allowing the tattoo to fade.
What makes picosecond technology different?
A picosecond is one trillionth of a second. These ultra-short pulses help fragment pigment while limiting the time available for heat to spread into surrounding tissue.
That precision does not mean every tattoo responds equally. Ink colour, depth, density and your skin all influence the treatment approach and outcome.
What happens during treatment
We assess the tattoo and your skin, discuss your goals and explain comfort measures before starting. Protective eyewear is worn throughout treatment.
You may feel a sharp snapping or stinging sensation as the laser passes over the tattoo. Appointment length depends on its size and the preparation needed.
What it treats
Tattoos you no longer want
Treatment can progressively fade unwanted tattoo ink. We assess the design, colours, location and any existing scarring before explaining the likely possibilities.
Lightening before a cover-up
You may want to fade a tattoo rather than remove it completely. Lightening can give your tattoo artist more flexibility when planning a new design. The skin must fully heal before being tattooed again.
Previously treated tattoos
If you have already started removal elsewhere, we assess the remaining pigment and your skin’s condition before recommending further treatment. Tell us which treatments you’ve had and how your skin responded.
Sessions & results
How many sessions you’ll need
Tattoo removal is a process rather than a single appointment. The number of treatments depends on ink colour, density, depth, tattoo size and location, along with your skin and response.
We discuss an estimated course at consultation and review progress as treatment continues. Complete removal cannot be guaranteed.
Why appointments are spaced apart
Your skin needs time to heal, and your body needs time to clear fragmented pigment. Scheduling sessions closer together does not necessarily produce faster results.
We recommend the interval according to your recovery and the tattoo’s response.
As the tattoo fades
Fading develops between appointments and may be uneven, with some areas or colours responding sooner than others. Some tattoos retain residual pigment or a faint outline after treatment.
Prep & aftercare
Before your appointment
Avoid tanning and protect the area from sun exposure. Tell us about medications, scarring tendencies, previous removal treatments and any itching, swelling or reaction within the tattoo.
Arrive with clean skin and follow any preparation instructions from our team.
What recovery may look like
Redness, swelling and tenderness can occur after treatment. Blistering or crusting may also develop. We’ll explain the expected recovery so you can plan around clothing, work and activities.
Caring for the area
- Follow our instructions on cleansing, dressings and recommended ointments.
- Do not pick crusts, scratch the area or burst blisters.
- Avoid swimming and soaking until the skin has healed.
- Check with our team before resuming strenuous exercise or activities that rub the area.
- Protect treated skin from the sun with clothing and shade. Apply sunscreen once the skin has healed, as advised.
- Check with us before applying active skincare products or booking another treatment over the area.
When to contact us
Contact our team if you experience worsening pain, spreading redness, increasing swelling, discharge or difficulty healing. Seek prompt medical advice if you develop fever or feel unwell.
Frequently asked questions
Can every ink colour be removed?
Different colours respond to different laser wavelengths. Black ink generally responds well, while other colours can be more challenging. We assess your tattoo against the capabilities of our device before recommending treatment.
Is treatment suitable for darker skin tones?
It may be, but careful assessment and appropriate settings are essential. Darker skin can be more susceptible to pigment changes, so treatment may require a more cautious approach and longer course.
Does tattoo removal leave scars?
Scarring is possible, along with lighter or darker skin changes. Appropriate treatment and aftercare help reduce these risks. Existing scars beneath a tattoo may remain visible as the ink fades.
Can you remove eyebrow tattoos or permanent makeup?
These require separate assessment. Some cosmetic pigments can darken after laser exposure, and treatment near the eyes needs specific precautions. We’ll explain whether treatment is appropriate.
Can I have treatment while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Tattoo removal is generally deferred during pregnancy and breastfeeding because safety information is limited.
Ready to move on from your tattoo?
Whether you want removal or enough fading for a new design, we’ll assess your tattoo, explain what treatment can realistically achieve and help you plan the next step.