Tattoo and lesion removal by laser (dermatology)

Category: Minor Procedures, Injections & Pain Relief · All minor procedures, injections & pain relief

What it is

Laser removal uses short pulses of laser light matched to the target colour to break tattoo pigment (or pigmented lesions) into particles the body clears gradually. It is the standard method for unwanted tattoos and some benign pigmented lesions.

Why it is done

It is used for tattoos that are no longer wanted, and for selected pigmented lesions and birthmarks judged benign by a dermatologist. Suspicious lesions are always biopsied first, never lasered.

How to prepare

Assessment includes skin type (darker skin carries higher pigment-change risk), tattoo age and colours, and previous treatments. Tell the clinic about sun exposure, tanning, pregnancy, keloid tendency and medicines that increase light sensitivity. Avoid tanning before and after sessions.

What happens during the procedure

The laser fires short pulses over the tattoo — each pulse feels like a hot snap. Sessions take minutes to half an hour depending on size, and are spaced six to eight weeks apart. A cooling device and sometimes numbing cream are used.

Afterwards — recovery & results

The area is red, swollen and may blister for a few days; it is dressed and kept clean and sun-protected. Fading is gradual between sessions; most tattoos need six to ten sessions, and some colours (greens, blues) are stubborn. Complete clearance is not guaranteed.

Risks & considerations

Risks include pain, blistering, infection, scarring, and pigment changes (lightening or darkening, sometimes lasting). Your clinician will give realistic expectations for your tattoo's colours and your skin type.

Watch: Tattoo and lesion removal by laser (dermatology) videos

Real procedure videos from the MedicalVideos.com library. Some clinical footage is graphic — that is the nature of a medical video library.

▶ WatchHow laser tattoo removal worksWatch on MedicalVideos.com ▶ WatchLaser tattoo removalWatch on MedicalVideos.com ▶ WatchLaser tattoo removal procedureWatch on MedicalVideos.com

Frequently asked questions

Why so many sessions?

Each session breaks only part of the pigment; the body then clears the fragments slowly. Sessions are spaced to allow this clearance and skin recovery.

Is laser removal painful?

Most people describe it as uncomfortable — snaps of heat. Numbing cream, cooling and breaks help; larger areas may need stronger pain relief.

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Please note: This page is educational information about a medical procedure or test. It does not replace the instructions of your own care team, who know your situation and whose preparation, fasting and medication advice you should follow if it differs from anything here. If you have symptoms that worry you, or an appointment you do not understand, contact your clinical team.