Laser Tattoo Removal for a Cover-up
Laser tattoo removal isn’t just for erasing embarrassing ink — in fact, getting laser treatments before covering up or redoing a tattoo is very popular now.
If you’re someone who has run out of space for new ink or you’re interested in updating an old tattoo, laser tattoo removal could help with the process. Here’s everything you need to know about getting laser tattoo removal for cover-up work and why it can help improve the final result of your new ink.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Although many people associate laser tattoo removal with erasing embarrassing ink (like your ex’s name), the truth is we see many people come in because they’re looking to get new ink or want a change, and they’ve found that laser tattoo removal makes the process easier.
Laser tattoo removal is a breeze when left to the professionals. Our team has a combined experience of over 50 years in laser tattoo removal, and in this time, we’ve seen just about every tattoo size, shape, color, and location imaginable. We use a laser that targets the pigment in your skin, delivering light at extremely high energy for just a fraction of a second.
The light from our laser will break up large tattoo pigments that your body will break down and carry out naturally over time. We only use the best technology available to do this, and at present, the Spectra laser system is top-of-the-line. We’re proud to have a 95-98% ink clearance and achieve results without damaging your skin.
Unlike older methods of tattoo removal, like dermabrasion or surgical removal, a laser will remove the colors of your tattoo with little to no scarring or other uncomfortable side effects like bleeding, swelling, infection or permanent scarring. The minimal damage to the skin allows us to quite literally wipe the slate clean for your tattoo artist to do their work with a cover-up.
How long will my laser tattoo removal take?
The number of treatments will always depend on the customer and your artist’s preference. Usually, after 2-3 treatments, we recommend that you start to consult with an artist to get an idea of the new design and to allow the artist to decide if more treatments are needed.
Factors that will impact your laser tattoo removal include the color of the ink, the age of the tattoo, placement, and size. During your free consultation, one of our Certified Laser Specialists will discuss your goals and help set expectations. It’s important to remember that how well you maintain proper aftercare before, after, and between laser tattoo removal sessions will also greatly impact your outcome.
Here are a few pro tips to optimize your laser tattoo removal process and ensure your skin stays healthy:
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- No swimming
- Stay hydrated
- Stick to your laser removal schedule
- No new ink between visits (we recommend that the client wait at least 6-8 weeks before applying the new tattoo)
- Cut back on alcohol and/or smoking
Your Certified Laser Specialist will go over all of the important steps to follow and more in your consultation and after each session to ensure you safely achieve the results you’re after.
How does laser tattoo removal help with cover-ups?
Tattoo cover-ups are often more complex and require much more planning on the artist’s end. Clearing out the canvas as much as possible will help make their job easier and ensure you get the results you’re after. Fading the darkest parts of your existing tattoo can be especially helpful for new tattoos that may include more detailed lines or color ink.
If a cover-up is attempted before any laser treatments, there’s a chance that the new tattoo is going to be much bigger, heavier and not very detailed. Then, if you don’t like how that looks, the removal process will be much more involved in regard to the number of treatments and cost.
As you begin to plan your laser tattoo removal process, we have a few things to keep in mind to guarantee you’re getting the results you’re after.
- Have a clear idea in mind. Cover-ups are complex work, so having a clear idea before beginning the process can help us and your tattoo artist accurately determine how much fading will need to be done.
- Speak with a tattoo artist. Since your tattoo artist will be the one working on the new canvas, it’s important you have their input and understand their expectations. This will also help us guide you on the number of sessions needed.
- Be patient! Just as we recommend with any other laser tattoo removal client, it’s worth the wait. One step in achieving the best results is to give your body time to heal. Follow your aftercare instructions, and don’t rush the process!
MEDermis Laser Clinic Can Help!
Removing your tattoo for a cover-up can be done safely, but be sure you consult the pros! We’re proud to have been serving clients in Austin and San Antonio longer than any other clinic in the entire southwest region of the U.S. Contact us today to schedule your FREE consultation!