We’ve been there—staring at a tattoo that seemed like a great idea at the time, which now feels like art that no longer represents you. Whether it’s the name of a long-gone lover, a flash design that’s lost its charm, or an impulsive design choice from your younger years, tattoo regret is real.
Luckily, today’s advanced laser technology makes laser tattoo removal a safe, effective, and affordable option. In this guide, we dive into everything you need to know about shedding old ink.
Removing a tattoo takes a year or more
First things first: Getting rid of tattoos takes a year or more. Most patients need at least 8-12 sessions, and you’ll require at least 8 weeks between each session. So, expect to wait for the results; you’ll see them show bit by bit after each session.
Your tattoo’s colors, location, & age can affect how long it takes
Not all tattoos are created equal, especially when it comes to removing them. Several factors can affect the ease or difficulty of the process. Older, faded tattoos tend to be treated more easily than newer, more saturated ones. The color of your ink also plays a significant role; black and darker colors tend to be easier to remove, while brighter colors like green and red might require a few extra sessions. The size and location of your tattoo are also likely to affect the removal process. Larger tattoos or those located in areas with less circulation (like your ankles or fingers) typically take longer to fade.
Understand the financial commitment beforehand
Let’s talk money. Laser tattoo removal is an investment in yourself, and the cost can vary widely depending on the size, color, and complexity of your tattoo, as well as the number of sessions needed. At Mountain Radiance in Asheville, a single session ranges from $150 to $900 based on the size of the tattoo. Most patients require at least 8-12 treatment sessions.
While it might be tempting to look for the cheapest deal, remember that expertise and safety should be your top priorities. A trusted and qualified provider will offer a clear breakdown of the costs involved; stepping into a well-equipped office led by medical professionals helps most of our patients to immediately understand the value of receiving this service from the best providers with the most advanced technology.
The pain is real, but manageable
We use a picosecond Nd:YAG laser to target unwanted tattoo ink beneath the skin. The process of passing the laser over the skin is uncomfortable, to be sure, but we will give you a numbing cream to apply to your skin 30 minutes before we begin (so it can take full effect) to keep pain to a minimum.
To help put the pain level in context, know that we use similar lasers for facial skin resurfacing to target cosmetic concerns like wrinkles and dark spots, and despite the discomfort, this treatment has remained popular for decades.
Moisturize and protect skin from the sun after treatment
Caring for your skin after your session will help prevent side effects and support your tattoo removal results. We recommend keeping the treated area clean and moisturized, avoiding direct sunlight, and applying a cool compress (as needed) to alleviate discomfort.
Lifestyle factors influence tattoo removal success
Believe it or not, your lifestyle choices can play a big part in the success of your tattoo removal journey. Smoking, for example, can hinder the healing process by slowing circulation and thus making it harder for your body to clear the treated pigments between sessions. A healthy diet and staying hydrated can support your skin’s ability to heal. And when it comes to the sun, slathering on sunscreen is non-negotiable; UV exposure can not only slow down the removal process but also increase the risk of scarring.
Find a medical team for your tattoo removal
Deciding to remove a tattoo is a big step, and finding the right provider is crucial. Look for a medical spa that specializes in laser tattoo removal and has a strong track record of success. It’s not just about zapping away ink; it’s about trusting someone with your skin’s health and appearance, so read reviews and ask about medical credentials (our medical spa is led by a board-certified physician, who is present onsite to oversee treatments!).
Further, before you commit, make sure you have a clear understanding of the process and set realistic expectations for how well you can expect to fade your unwanted ink.
Real Patient Testimonials After Laser Tattoo Removal
“I can’t be more pleased with my first session for tattoo removal. Mark was very professional and friendly. Pain was minimal thanks to the numbing cream.”
5-Star Google Review
“Mark and his staff are amazing. They’re consummate professionals that will answer any question you may have. They provide great tattoo removal. Very happy that I decided to go to Mountain Radiance!”
5-Star Google Review
Schedule your appointment today!“Consultation with Sarah Armstrong for tattoo removal. Facility was clean, up to date office technology… Sarah was informative, to the point, with no hard sell or “fluff”. Answered the few questions I had intelligently.”
5-Star Google Review
Ready to take the next step? If you’re in the area, our Asheville med spa boasts a team of qualified providers who can guide you through the process with care and expertise—call (828) 627-2711 or fill out our contact form below!
