Frequently asked questions
How does tattoo removal work?
Laser tattoo removal is the only clinically proven method of removing a tattoo without causing scarring. Q-switched laser technology works by delivering ultra-short nanosecond pulses of light energy that shatter the ink in a tattoo. The short bursts of laser light break down the ink particles in the tattooed skin and over time the immune system gradually absorbs and eliminates the fragmented ink particles through your lymphatic system. Over a series of treatments, more and more of the ink shatters, leaving the skin free of tattoo pigment. By using larger spot sizes at very high energy, deeper-lying pigmented structures can be reached and removed, and laser treatment efficacy and efficiency in a single session are significantly enhanced.
Does tattoo removal hurt?
Tattoo removal is not a pleasant sensation but it is extremely fast. At Swift Tattoo Removal we use the powerful ZIMMER CRYO 6 cold air machine to minimise pain and keep the area as cool as possible before, during and after your removal treatment. The cold air also works to minimise the risk of thermal injury to the treated area. Anaesthetic (numbing) cream is highly effective and recommended for anyone who is extremely worried about the pain level of the treatment. Numbing creams should be applied to the area quite liberally and then wrapped in cling wrap for your technician to remove. Ask your technician what numbing creams they recommend for best results!
How long does the entire removal process take?
A single treatment is booked for 30 minutes but the actual laser treatment only takes a few seconds, for smaller tattoos, and up to a few minutes for larger areas.
For complete removal of a tattoo there are a number of variables such as the age and density of a tattoo that determine the speed of the fading process. Other factors such as your age and health, the types of inks used and the location of the tattoo on the body can factor in to the speed at which a tattoo fades. Generally, a dense black tattoo that is a few years old will take between 7-9 treatments, over the course of a year or so. Fading a tattoo for a cover up generally requires far fewer treatments. Your laser technician and your tattooist can advise on the degree of fading required before beginning a new tattoo.
Do I need to do anything before I come in for my treatment?
If the tattoo is hairy it would be appreciated if you could shave the area clean beforehand. Make sure you’re hydrated and have eaten that day. If you need to bring your child to the appointment they must be old enough to sit in Chapel Tattoo reception down stairs.
What is the aftercare like?
You technician will explain the aftercare in detail during and after your appointment and you will be sent an email outlining the aftercare advice instructions that you should follow. It is important to not swim, surf, soak in baths or hot tubs, use saunas or expose the treated area to sun until the tattoo is full healed (1-2 weeks generally).
How long do I need to wait before I can get a new tattoo on the treated area?
You should generally wait 6 months from your final tattoo removal treatment before you get a cover up over the top. If the cover up is going to be super solid and saturated then 3 months is sometimes enough time. Make sure to chat with your laser technician before booking in for your cover up tattoo.
Can I tan?
Unfortunately we can’t treat you if you are excessively tanned. Try not to apply fake tan over the treated area for the entirety of the removal process and if you do have fake tan on the area you need to wait three weeks from the time of application before we can treat the area.
How much does it cost?
Our minimum charge per treatment is $100 (for something 20c size or smaller) and then we quote based on size and density of your tattoo. For a free no obligation quote please fill in an online consult form and we will get back to you shortly.
Alternatively you can text 0466882965 for a free quote.
