Tattooing the body is a beautiful form of art that is highly popular. But sometimes, you decide to remove the tattoo on your body. Tattoos are a form of self-expression and commemorating special moments or memories.
Tattoos can be beautiful, meaningful, and a great form of self-expression. But what if you’ve grown tired of your tattoo or regret getting it in the first place? You may wonder what it involves and if it is even possible to remove your tattoo completely.
Fortunately, laser tattoo removal is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted ink. In the UK, laser tattoo removal is a popular method for removing unwanted tattoos.
But, many people are curious about the cost associated with this procedure. We will look at how much laser tattoo removal costs in the UK and what factors can affect the price of tattoo removal.
We’ll also discuss alternative tattoo removal options that may be more budget-friendly. We will also look at reasons why people decide to remove their tattoos. Whether you want to remove a small tattoo or a large piece of ink, this guide will help you understand the costs and options available.
Factors To Consider Before Choosing To Remove Your Tattoo
When considering tattoo removal, there are several factors to consider before going on with the procedure. Some of the most important ones to consider include the following:
Size And Location of the tattoo: The size and location will affect the cost and number of laser tattoo removal sessions required. Larger tattoos and tattoos in areas with thin skin (like the fingers and wrists) can be more difficult to remove and may require additional sessions.
Color Of The Tattoo: Different ink colors absorb different wavelengths of laser light, so different colors may require different laser settings. Black and dark blue inks are the easiest to remove, while light colors like yellow, green, and pink can be more difficult.
Age Of The Tattoo: Older tattoos are easier to remove than newer ones. This is because the ink particles are larger, which allows the laser to target them more easily.
Your Skin Type: Laser tattoo removal is less effective on dark skin, as melanin can absorb the laser energy and cause burns or discoloration.
Your Expectations: Having realistic expectations regarding laser tattoo removal is important. The procedure can take multiple sessions; even after that, some residual ink or discoloration may occur. Also, the final results can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Your Budget: Laser tattoo removal can be costly, so it is important to consider the cost before deciding whether to keep or remove the tattoo. It’s a good idea to have a consultation with a licensed professional to understand the cost and to have realistic expectations of the results.
The Type Of Laser Used: Different lasers are used for different ink colors. Researching and finding a practitioner with experience with the specific type of laser used for your tattoo is important.
The Practitioner’s Experience: It is important to find a practitioner who has the experience and is qualified to perform laser tattoo removal. This will ensure that the procedure is performed safely and effectively.
Aftercare: Proper aftercare is very important to ensure that the tattoo removal process is successful. It is important to follow the practitioner’s aftercare instructions to avoid complications.
Number Of Sessions Required: The number of sessions required to remove a tattoo can also affect the cost. More sessions will result in a higher cost.
Insurance Coverage: Some insurance plans may cover the cost of laser tattoo removal, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to see if the procedure is covered.
It is important to remember that laser tattoo removal is not a one-time process, and multiple treatments may be required to achieve the desired result. Therefore, it is important to consider the above factors and to have realistic expectations before deciding to remove a tattoo.
What is The Cost of Laser Tattoo Removal In The UK
The cost of laser tattoo removal in the UK can vary depending on the factors discussed above, such as the size and location of the tattoo, the color of the ink, the type of laser used, the practitioner’s experience, the number of sessions required, etc. On average, you can expect to pay between £50-£500 per session.
However, some sessions can cost as much as £1000. The total cost of the treatment will depend on the size and complexity of the tattoo and the number of sessions required to achieve the desired result.
Getting a quote from a qualified practitioner before starting the laser tattoo removal procedure is important to know the total cost. It is also worth noting that some insurance plans may cover the cost of laser tattoo removal, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to see if the procedure is covered.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Laser tattoo removal is a procedure that uses pulses of laser light to break down the ink particles in a tattoo, allowing the body to remove them naturally. The process works by targeting the tattoo ink with a specific wavelength of laser light absorbed by the ink particles. This causes the ink particles to break down into smaller, more easily absorbed particles that the body’s immune system can remove.
Several types of laser technology are used in tattoo removal, including Q-switched, picosecond, and alexandrite lasers. The type of laser used will depend on the color and size of the tattoo, as well as the patient’s skin type.
Today, tattoos can be removed after a series of laser treatments. In the United Kingdom, facilities charge between £100 and £800 per session on average, so if you want to remove a larger ink, you may spend up to £6,000.
Remember that tattoos can be fully removed through laser procedures. If you try the laser tattoo removal method, you will still see patchy fragments on your skin.
People with dark skin are advised not to take this treatment as the skin where the tattoo was located may develop a permanent scar afterward or even become paler and darker than other areas.
During the procedure, the laser is directed at the tattooed area, and the ink particles absorb the laser energy, causing them to break down. The tattoo may darken or change color during the treatment, and there may be some mild discomfort or pain, which can be managed with a local anesthetic cream or cooling gel.
Multiple treatments are typically required for optimal results, as the body needs time to remove the broken-down ink particles. The number of treatments needed will depend on the size and color of the tattoo, the patient’s immune system, and overall health.
It’s important to note that laser tattoo removal is not always successful and may not remove all the ink. Some patients may be left with a faint outline or shadow of the original tattoo. Also, scarring or skin discoloration is risky, so choosing a professional and experienced practitioner is important.
How Many Sessions Does The Laser Tattoo Removal Procedure Require?
The number of sessions required for laser tattoo removal can vary depending on factors such as the size, color, and location of the tattoo and the individual’s skin type. On average, most tattoos require between 5 and 10 sessions to completely remove a tattoo.
Some tattoos may require additional sessions, especially tattoos with many different colors. It is best to consult with a dermatologist or a licensed tattoo removal specialist to determine the number of sessions needed for a specific tattoo.
Other Ways Of Tattoo Removal in the UK And Their Cost
There are other ways of removing tattoos in the UK, including:
Surgical Excision
Surgical excision is a surgical method of tattoo removal where the tattooed area is cut out of the skin, and the surrounding skin is sewn together.
This method is typically used for small tattoos, and it is not very common due to the potential for scarring and the need for general anesthesia. The surgical excision method of tattoo removal is often used when laser removal does not completely remove a tattoo.
The tattooed skin is first numbed with a local anesthetic during the procedure. Then, using a scalpel, the tattooed skin is cut out, and the edges of the surrounding skin are sewn together. The area may need to be dressed and bandaged to promote healing.
It’s important to note that surgical excision carries certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, and scarring. The scarring may be more visible than the original tattoo, especially if the tattoo was in an area where the skin is tight, such as the face or fingers.
The cost of surgical excision varies depending on the size, location, and complexity of the tattoo, as well as the surgeon’s experience and location. On average, surgical excision cost starts from £1,000 and above. It is always best to consult with a qualified tattoo removal specialist to get an estimate of the cost for your specific case.
It’s worth noting that surgical excision is not a very popular tattoo removal method because it is invasive and carries risks such as scarring and infection. Non-invasive methods such as laser tattoo removal are becoming more popular as they are less painful and have a lower risk of complications.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a procedure that uses a rapidly rotating device to sand the top layers of skin off, effectively removing the tattoo.
This method is less invasive than surgical excision but can still leave scarring and requires local anesthesia. Dermabrasion is not typically used to remove tattoos but to treat acne scars, wrinkles, and other skin imperfections.
During the procedure, the tattooed skin is numbed with a local anesthetic. Then a device with a rapidly rotating wire brush or diamond fraise rubs the skin’s surface, removing the top layers. The area may need to be dressed and bandaged to promote healing.
It’s important to note that dermabrasion carries certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, and scarring. The scarring may be more visible than the original tattoo, especially if the tattoo was in an area where the skin is tight, such as the face or fingers.
The cost of dermabrasion varies depending on the size, location, and complexity of the tattoo, as well as the surgeon’s experience and location.
On average, dermabrasion may cost from £200 to £1000 or more. It is always best to consult with a qualified tattoo removal specialist to get an estimate of the cost for your specific case.
Why Do People Decide to Remove Their Tattoos?
There are many reasons why people may decide to remove a tattoo or tattoos on their body. Some of the common reasons why people decide to remove their tattoo(s) include:
Regret: One of the most common reasons people remove their tattoos is regret. They may have gotten a tattoo on a whim or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and later decide that it doesn’t reflect their true self or current values.
Change In Personal Taste: As people grow and change, their tastes and preferences change. A tattoo that once held significant meaning may no longer be relevant or desirable, and they may choose to remove it.
Professional Reasons: Many people find tattoos can hinder their professional lives, especially if visible. They may remove tattoos to increase their chances of getting a job or a promotion.
Medical Reasons: Tattoos can sometimes interfere with medical procedures, such as MRI scans, and may need to be removed for the patient’s safety.
Cultural Or Religious Reasons: Some people may remove tattoos as a symbol of rejecting their past or to show respect for their culture and religion.
Cover-up: Some people may remove their tattoos to cover them up with new ones.
Wear And Tear: Time and sun exposure can cause tattoos to fade and blur, making them less appealing. People may decide to remove them and get new tattoos.
Relationship: A tattoo meant to symbolize a relationship may become a reminder of a past relationship that is better left behind.
Self-Improvement: Some people may remove their tattoos as a symbol of self-improvement or a new beginning.
Ultimately, the decision to remove a tattoo is personal and can be influenced by various factors. People have different reasons to remove their tattoos, which are valid and important to them.
FAQs
How much does laser tattoo removal cost in the UK?
The cost of laser tattoo removal in the UK varies depending on several factors, including the size and location of the tattoo, the number of sessions required, and the practitioner performing the procedure. On average, the cost can range from £50 to £500 per session, with most people requiring several sessions to remove a tattoo fully.
Is laser tattoo removal safe?
Laser tattoo removal is generally considered safe by a trained and licensed practitioner. However, as with any medical procedure, there is a small risk of side effects such as changes in skin pigmentation.
Are there any financing options available for laser tattoo removal?
Some laser tattoo removal clinics may offer financing options such as payment plans or credit. It is best to check with the clinic you are interested in for more information.
Does health insurance cover laser tattoo removal in the UK?
Generally, laser tattoo removal is not covered by health insurance in the UK, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Some cases may be covered if it is deemed medically necessary.
How many sessions are required for laser tattoo removal in the UK?
The number of sessions required for laser tattoo removal in the UK can vary depending on the size and location of the tattoo and the type of ink used. Most people require several sessions to fully remove a tattoo, with the number of sessions ranging from 5 to 10.
Are there any risks associated with laser tattoo removal in the UK?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with laser tattoo removals in the UK, such as skin color or texture changes. However, these risks are generally considered low and can be minimized by following the aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner.
Conclusion
In rounding up, the cost of laser tattoo removal in the UK varies greatly depending on several factors, such as the size, location, and color of the tattoo and the practitioner performing the procedure.
On average, prices can range from £50 to £500 per session, with multiple sessions often required for the complete laser removal of tattoos. It is important to consider different practitioners to have a consultation to get a better idea of the cost of your specific tattoo.
