EP 01 • How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
FADED Podcast
Have you ever found yourself staring at an old tattoo, wondering what possessed you to get that particular design? Maybe it’s that ex’s name, or perhaps that design that seemed like a brilliant idea at 2 AM.
You’re not alone.
Many of us look back on our choices and wish we could hit an undo button. Luckily, laser tattoo removal offers just that. An eraser for past decisions inked on our skin. But how exactly does this process work, and what can you do to ensure you get the best results? In this article, I’m going to walk you through how we do it here at Studio Kiku, and what you can expect.
First, let’s talk about how tattoos stick around in the first place
When you get tattooed, that needle is depositing ink particles deep into your dermis (the second layer of your skin). These particles are actually too big for your body’s immune system to cart away, so they just stay put. That’s why your tattoo doesn’t disappear after a few weeks like a bruise would.
Over time, sun exposure can naturally break down some of these particles, which is why old tattoos often look faded. But your body needs help to tackle the bigger chunks.
Enter the laser
Laser tattoo removal works by hitting those ink particles with incredibly short bursts of intense light. We’re talking nanoseconds here. The laser energy shatters the pigment into tiny fragments. Think of it like breaking a rock into pebbles, then into sand.
Once the particles are small enough, your immune system can finally do its job. Your white blood cells sweep in, grab these microscopic pieces, and carry them away through your lymphatic system.
Why it takes multiple sessions (and why that's actually a good thing)
Your body can only process so much at once. After each session, you need to give your immune system time to clear out all those broken-down particles before hitting the tattoo again. This is why spacing sessions 6-8 weeks apart (sometimes longer) actually gets better results than rushing through treatments every few weeks.
What affects how well it works?
Several factors influence how your tattoo responds:
- Your immune system: The healthier you are, the better your body can process those broken-down particles
- The tattoo itself: Professional tattoos with quality ink often respond better than amateur ones with inconsistent pigment
- Colors matter: Black and red typically respond well, while yellows and greens can be stubborn
- Age and depth: Older tattoos are often easier to remove, and surface-level tattoos respond better than deep ones
- Scar tissue: If your tattoo has raised areas or scar tissue, it creates a barrier that makes the process more time-consuming.
Let’s be honest about the pain
Yeah, it hurts. People often describe it as a rubber band snapping against your skin repeatedly, or like bacon grease splattering on you. The good news? Each session is relatively quick depending on the size of the tattoo being removed.
There are ways to manage the discomfort: numbing creams, ice packs, and making sure your skin isn’t already irritated from sun exposure or other treatments.
The reality of results
Here’s the thing nobody likes to talk about: complete removal isn’t always possible. Some tattoos fade to barely visible, others might leave a ghost image, and some respond better than others.
The process typically takes anywhere from 6-12 sessions, sometimes more for complex pieces. Your skin type, the tattoo’s characteristics, and your body’s response all play a role.
Taking care of yourself during the process
Since your immune system is doing the heavy lifting, keeping yourself healthy makes a real difference. Stay hydrated, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking if possible. Your body will thank you with better results.
Laser tattoo removal is a legitimate process backed by solid science, but it’s not magic. It takes time, patience, and realistic expectations. If you’re considering it, do your research and reach out to us at Studio Kiku if you’d like to work with us.