Frequently Asked Questions

How many treatments will I need?

Since every tattoo is different and everyone heals at different rates, there is no set number of treatments for laser tattoo removal. The number of treatments needed varies client-to-client based on their tattoo. On average, patients need between 5 to 10 treatments for complete removal and 3 to 4 treatments for significant fading. Bonsai Tattoo Removal can provide a better quote after assessing your tattoo during your free consultation. We use a variety of factors to determine how many treatments you will need, including:

 Age of tattoo

 Size of tattoo

 Location of tattoo

 Tattoo ink colors

 Depth of ink

 Ink density

 Pre-existing scarring

 Individual health

What is discussed during my consultation?

Every client must receive a consultation before proceeding with treatment. During your free consultation, we will discuss your treatment goals – whether you want to completely remove your tattoo, fade it for cover-up, or selectively remove a specific part of your tattoo. The laser technician will review the procedure and explain how our Astanza Trinity laser works to remove the ink in your skin. Aftercare instructions will be discussed to ensure you understand how to care for your skin for the best results.

Which laser do you use?

We use the industry-leading Astanza Trinity laser and Zimmer Cryo cooling machine. Laser tattoo removal is extremely effective when the right technology is used. Our Astanza Trinity laser safely and effectively eliminates unwanted ink with the fewest number of treatments. We’ve invested in the most powerful laser technology to ensure your skin receives the best treatment experience possible.

Is the laser painful? How long do treatments last?

The level of pain you will experience from the laser depends entirely on your personal pain threshold. However, if you can get a tattoo applied, you can definitely tolerate having one removed. Most clients have compared the feeling of the laser to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Fortunately, treatment sessions only take a few minutes! Treatments can last anywhere from 1 to 20 minutes depending on the size of your tattoo. Bonsai Tattoo Removal uses the Zimmer Cryo cooling machine to numb your skin before, DURING, and after treatment, mitigating any pain associated with the laser and also protecting your skin from unwanted thermal injury.

How long will it take to remove my tattoo completely?

Multiple treatments are required to achieve complete tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal is a process that takes both time and commitment. Fewer treatments are needed for clients interested in fading or lightening their tattoo.

A minimum of 6 to 8 weeks is scheduled between each treatment session to give your skin time to heal before the next treatment. Some clients may achieve complete removal within a few months while others may take a year – it all depends on various factors of your tattoo and how quickly your immune system heals. Boosting your immune system will increase the rate at which your tattoo fades.

How does laser tattoo removal help prepare me for a cover-up?

Cover-up tattoos are a great option for dealing with an unwanted tattoo. Cover-ups are exactly what they sound like – tattoos that cover or hide an existing tattoo. Cover-up tattoos are difficult to create if the existing tattoo is very dark and heavily pigmented. Tattoo artists must use double the amount of ink to hide the existing artwork completely. Laser tattoo removal fades an existing tattoo to create a cleaner canvas for your artist to work on.

Are there any side effects?

Laser tattoo removal is the safest solution for getting rid of an unwanted tattoo. With that being said, the most common side effects patients experience are temporary redness, scabbing, blistering, and swelling. Clients with darker skin tones may experience some discoloration of the surrounding skin, however, this will resolve naturally over time.

Bonsai Tattoo Removal provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure you provide proper care for your skin outside our practice.