Today’s laser technology makes it possible to eliminate most tattoos and tattoo removal with laser is by far the safest, most effective, and non-invasive way to remove undesired tattoos, apart from getting a cover-up tattoo. Studies have shown that up to 90% of a tattoo can be removed within 4 to 12 sessions using the method that combines QS PICOsecond laser with Fractional laser, as compared to the traditional QS laser treatment that requires more than 15 sessions for the same effect.
How much does it cost to remove a tattoo in Singapore?
Estimated to cost between S$1000 - S$5000 for smaller tattoos, with each session costing between S$600 - S$1500 per session.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
Tattoos are removed by directing laser energy at the tattooed area that selectively destroys the tattoo ink by passing through the epidermis (topmost layer) of your skin and are absorbed by pigments from your tattoo together with the help of our body’s scavenger cells and immune system, the pigment residues will be flushed away.
Based on our research, the 2 common types of tattoo removal lasers used in Singapore are quality-switch (QS) NANOsecond laser (emerged in the 1980s) and the PICOsecond laser (since 2012). The difference between PICOsecond and NANOsecond lasers for tattoo removal is the pulse speed. The PICOsecond laser produces a pulse duration 100 x shorter than that of a NANOsecond laser. Both are extraordinarily fast, and both shatter the ink and shatter it well. However, some PICOsecond laser machines don’t have enough power, resulting in a NANOsecond laser speed.
There isn’t a perfect solution when it comes to tattoo removal, and it will require a multi-factorial scientific approach. Other factors that may influence the tattoo removal’s effectiveness include the health of the immune system, the placement of the tattoo, the tattoo ink colours used, the depth of ink, the type of ink, and the age of the tattoo.
Which is the most difficult tattoo ink colour to remove?
Green, red, orange, yellow, and just about any other colours but black. The greater the contrast between the colour of the tattoo pigment and your skin, the better the result. This is why black and grey are the hardiest tattoo colours as they are dense, bold and their appearance lasts longest yet easiest to be removed.
Is the tattoo removal process painful?
Yes, but the experience of pain can be better managed with the help of an anesthetic cream. The sessions are generally straightforward and fast, with minimal downtime.
When’s a good time to remove a tattoo?
Ideally, 6-8 weeks after getting a tattoo as your tattoo needs to be fully healed to minimize any adverse side effects.
How long after getting a tattoo removed can you get a new tattoo over it?
6-8 weeks after you’ve fully healed from your laser removal.
Does insurance cover tattoo removal?
Tattoo removal treatment isn’t usually covered by private medical insurance, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure.
What are the risks of tattoo removal?
Potential infection from poor hygiene or healing of the wound
Skin discolouration may be permanent
Suboptimal aesthetic result and unfavourable scarring
As such, it is crucial to do your research before engaging a tattoo removal specialist and follow the aftercare procedure diligently. It is equally important not to get a tattoo on impulse, even though tattoo removal service providers are readily available around you.
So, let us know if you think it is better to remove a tattoo or cover it up in the comment section below.
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