Why use the Enlighten Laser? 

 

To effectively remove a tattoo, the laser energy must be delivered at high power within the right wavelength over an extremely short period of time. It is the world’s first and only dual wavelength (1064 nm + 532 nm) and dual pulse duration (750 ps + 2 ns) laser system that delivers the highest pulse energies in its class. With a precisely adjustable laser energy level, pulse duration, wavelength, and spot-size for depth, speed, power, and safety, the Enlighten Laser has become the world's most advanced laser technology for aesthetic and tattoo removal.

​

The result? Better clearance with fewer treatments leading to less pain and lower costs.

​

What’s the Procedure Like?

 

A laser tattoo removal is an outpatient procedure performed in a doctor’s office. The doctor will numb the area being treated with injectable anesthetic or numbing creams. Patients need to wear protective eye shield during the treatment. The laser beams are emitted from a hand-held wand or device that the doctor passes slowly over the skin. Afterward, surgical grade transparent film dressing will be applied on top of the treated area to accelerate the healing process. These transparent film dressings have several benefits such as water-resistance so they don’t have to be removed while bathing or showering, an antibacterial barrier that prevents pathogens and external contaminants, breathability, which lets oxygen in and allowing excess moisture vapor to be released, and flexibility which allows it to be placed anywhere on the body and will stay put for up to several days. It's advised not to go to the beach, saunas, steam baths, sunbathing, and swimming because the heat can shrink the film.

​

Does Tattoo Removal Hurt?

 

Pain responses to laser tattoo removal are varied and depend on patient’s pain tolerance. Most patients say the procedure feels similar to getting the tattoo, although some say it hurts less and some say it hurts more. The sensation is commonly described as bearable yet uncomfortable and "similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin." Some patients report feeling a pinching or burning sensation during the treatment. The Enlighten laser, due to its cutting edge technology, requires fewer treatments than previous lasers used for tattoo removal and shorter treatments also mean less pain. Lidocaine cream can be applied on the treatment area to reduce discomfort or pain. An ice pack is also applied immediately on top of the treated area after treatment to further reduce discomfort.

 

How Many Treatments Will It Take?

 

Each situation is different. The color of ink, the size of the tattoo, whether the tattoo was professionally applied (which means the ink is likely to penetrate the skin to uniform levels), and the age of the tattoo will all affect the number of treatments. The individual’s skin color can also be a factor, as darker skin tends to absorb laser beams, making tattoo removal more difficult.