How many sessions does it take to remove a tattoo?

Laser tattoo removal is proven to be effective and safe but in most situations, we need more than 1 session to remove the tattoo. Generally speaking, it takes around 10-12 sessions to see complete removal results. However, many factors play into the overall outcome of each client’s tattoo.

Typically, you will start to see tattoo fading around sessions 3-5 which is optimal for people who are seeking removal for a cover-up, but it will likely take 10-12 sessions to see complete removal results. Just like any other procedure, results will vary depending on you.

Everyone is different and will have various outcomes on their tattoo removal based on the factors listed, but in general, we have seen that most tattoos can be removed around 10-12 sessions spaced every 6-8 weeks apart. Learn more about how long it takes to remove a tattoo in this article.

  • What is a tattoo

What affects the sessions for laser tattoo removal?

  • Skin type
  • Tattoo layering i.e touchups and cover-ups
  • Tattoo placement 
  • Ink colors and the type of ink applied
  • Pre-existing scarring from the tattoo process
  • Immune system function
  • Tobacco use
  • Aftercare compliance
  • Laser technology used 
  • Experience and skill of the laser technician
  • Tattoo depth
  • Tattoo size

Read More: What Type of Tattoo Is Easier to Remove? Old or New

How Long Will Each Session Take?

The size of the tattoo depends on how long each session takes. 

If you are trying to remove an unwanted tattoo that is roughly four square inches, your session will only take 10 to 15 minutes. If your unwanted tattoo is only slightly larger, your session may take up to 20 minutes.

If you are trying to remove a large tattoo, each removal session can take an hour or slightly longer.

After the Session

Once your session is complete, there is no downtime to worry about, but you will want to avoid activities that can cause you to sweat for about 24 hours. Additionally, avoid excessively hot water, high-pressure showers, and lakes for one to two weeks following treatment.

Avoid shaving the treated area until it is completely healed. Complete healing can take four to six weeks, but this varies. Treatments are typically scheduled four to eight weeks apart, depending on how long it takes to heal from the previous treatment.

The lightening of your tattoo will be most noticeable after the first treatment. Each subsequent treatment will further lighten the tattoo, but the result will not be as drastic as it was after the initial session. However, there is no need to despair; your before and after pictures will make the overall difference evident.

Read More: Will My Skin Go Hack to Normal After Laser Tattoo Removal?