Laser Tattoo Removal
Consultations offered at our seven convenient locations in Brea, Costa Mesa, Glendora, Lancaster, Rancho Cucamonga, Whittier and West Hollywood
Tattooing is both a cultural practice and an art form that dates back to the beginnings of modern civilization. (1) In the United States, hundreds of thousands of people have tattoos, with that number continuing to trend upward. Tattoos are permanent markings on the body, made with inks injected into layers of the skin. For many people, these markings can be an exciting way to express themselves, but over time, it is not uncommon for some to begin to dislike their tattoos or regret getting tattooed altogether. For these patients, laser tattoo removal provides a safe and effective option for removing old, unwanted ink.
At Skin Perfect, our team of experts is dedicated to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals through treatments like laser tattoo removal. We offer personalized plans with a wide range of treatments, blending trusted techniques and advanced technological solutions.
If you are ready to explore your tattoo removal options, please schedule a consultation online or call the office closest to you:
- Whittier: (562) 278-3202
- Rancho Cucamonga: (909) 281-9020
- Glendora: (626) 360-3499
- Brea: (714) 278-3501
- Costa Mesa: (714) 278-3506
- Lancaster: (661) 382-3311
- West Hollywood: (323) 373-3149
Contents
Before and After Photos
About Laser Tattoo Removal with the Spectra Laser
Laser tattoo removal is a widely performed treatment that uses laser energy to clear away old or unwanted ink pigment in the skin. At Skin Perfect, we use the Spectra laser, featuring Q-switched Nd:YAG technology. This leading tattoo removal laser’s Q-switched technology removes pigmented tattoo ink by administering ultra-short, high-intensity energy pulses into the skin, which are absorbed by the tattoo ink, ultimately leading its pigments to break apart. This treatment utilizes specific light wavelengths to target the pigments in tattoos, minimizing damage and preserving the health of the surrounding skin. (2) After a session, the body naturally removes the pigments through the lymphatic system. Several sessions are needed for effective removal. (3)
Benefits
With the expertise of the Skin Perfect specialists, our laser tattoo removal patients see advantages like:
- Non-Surgical Treatment: This treatment offers significant results without requiring a lengthy recovery, general anesthesia, or the use of unsightly incisions.
- Safe for Different Skin Tones: The Spectra laser can be adjusted to address a range of different skin tones, offering safe and effective removal for diverse complexions.
- Versatile Treatment: The Spectra laser can address tattoos of essentially any color, size, or placement, including professional, amateur, and cosmetic tattoos.
- Permanent Results: Laser tattoo removal is a permanent solution for getting rid of unwanted ink pigment.
- High Safety Profile: Laser tattoo removal has a high safety and efficacy rate when performed by a qualified professional, such as the experts at Skin Perfect.
Candidates
Candidates for laser tattoo removal include most patients interested in removing an old or unwanted tattoo. Unlike more conventional lasers, the Spectra laser is safe and effective for most skin types, tattoo colors, and tattoo depths.
Interested candidates should be in good general health and have realistic expectations regarding what this treatment can achieve. It is important to keep in mind that tattoo removal requires multiple treatment sessions. Patients who are pregnant, have an active skin infection, or have skin injuries may not be recommended for immediate treatment. Our team of specialists will determine each patient’s candidacy during their personal consultation.
Personal Consultation
The first step to clearer skin is attending a personal consultation at one of our Southern California locations. During this consultation, you will meet with one of our experienced specialists to discuss your goals, medical history, and more. They will also examine your tattoo and begin planning your treatment with the Spectra laser.
They will tailor certain aspects of your treatment plan based on the details of your tattoo, as well as your skin tone. Throughout the consultation, the specialist will also answer any questions you may have.
To schedule this consultation and receive your tailored treatment plan, please contact us online or call the office most convenient to you:
- Whittier: (562) 278-3202
- Rancho Cucamonga: (909) 281-9020
- Glendora: (626) 360-3499
- Brea: (714) 278-3501
- Costa Mesa: (714) 278-3506
- Lancaster: (661) 382-3311
- West Hollywood: (323) 373-3149
Preparation
To prepare for your laser tattoo removal, you will receive a set of customized preparation instructions before your appointment. These instructions will vary depending on the details of your treatment plan, but following them closely will optimize your results.
- Refrain from taking any blood-thinning medications or supplements before your appointment.
- Cease nicotine use and alcohol consumption in the days leading up to your appointment.
- Avoid direct, excessive, or unprotected sun exposure.
- Arrange transportation home if necessary.
- Keep the treatment area free of lotions, makeup, or skincare products on the day of your appointment.
- Wear loose clothing to your appointment to prevent irritation.
Procedure
When you arrive at your appointment, we will lead you to a private treatment room where you will recline comfortably. We will clean and sanitize the tattooed skin and apply a topical or local anesthetic to minimize any potential discomfort.
Your laser specialist will pass the handheld Spectra laser device over your skin; the device will emit pulses of laser energy into the skin, with each pulse lasting only a minuscule fraction of a second. Patients may see a white layer of “frosting” over the treated skin as the laser energy is absorbed, indicating that the laser energy is being successfully absorbed by the ink particles. Once the targeted area has been treated, your specialist will apply an antibacterial ointment and the appropriate dressings.
Laser tattoo removal is a gradual process; this process will be repeated during follow-up sessions as needed.
Recovery
One of the many perks of laser tattoo removal is that there is essentially no downtime. This means that you will be able to return to your routine after your appointment, but you should avoid direct or excessive sunlight—including tanning—and always make sure to protect the treated area with SPF or loose clothing.
It is normal to experience flaking, redness, or tenderness in the treated area during the first few days of recovery. These effects are temporary and will subside on their own within several days to a week. Your specialist will provide and discuss further recovery information during your consultation, including how to wash the area with gentle, non-scented soap, what products to avoid, and more.
Results
Most patients experience the best results after a series of regular treatment sessions spaced 4-8 weeks apart. The exact number of treatment sessions needed will be highly dependent on the size, composition, and quality and strength of the tattoo. Many patients notice significant results by their third or fourth treatment session, and final results after about 6-12 sessions total.
Cost of Laser Tattoo Removal in Southern California
The cost of laser tattoo removal can vary depending on the removal techniques used, the number of treatment sessions, as well as the quality, color, size, and placement of the tattoo. Older, faded tattoos tend to require fewer treatment sessions compared to newer or darker tattoos. After evaluating your ink and creating your treatment plan, your specialist will provide a personalized cost estimate for your treatment.
Skin Perfect also offers financing plans. Our patient coordinators will help you to explore your options during your consultation if you are interested.
To schedule a consultation and learn more about the costs associated with laser tattoo removal, please contact us online.
FAQ
Do some tattoos respond better to laser tattoo removal than others?
Yes. Even though modern laser removal technology can address essentially any type of tattoo, older tattoos that have already started to fade tend to require fewer removal sessions. In any case, the laser tattoo removal process requires patience; most patients who stick to a consistent treatment session plan are able to see amazing results!
Can I get a fresh tattoo in an area where I previously got laser tattoo removal?
Yes, once your skin has fully healed, you may receive a new tattoo in that same area. Some patients even choose to undergo laser tattoo removal to clear space for new tattoos, especially if the current tattoo is too complex to cover with a new one.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
The Spectra laser tattoo we use implements Q-switched Nd:YAG technology. This technology administers quick bursts of laser energy into the skin, which is absorbed by the pigments in the tattoo ink. This process causes the pigments in the laser to break apart. After a laser tattoo removal session, the body is able to process and remove these pigments through the lymphatic system.
How long does it take to see results with laser tattoo removal?
Most patients can see substantial results after about 6-12 treatment sessions, each spaced 4-8 weeks apart.
References
- Bernstein E. Laser Tattoo Removal. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2007;21(3):175-192. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2007-991186
- Hohman MH, Ramsey ML. Laser Tattoo Removal. Nih.gov. Published February 6, 2025. Accessed September 15, 2025. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK442007/#article-29882.s11
- Goh C, Ho S. Laser tattoo removal: A clinical update. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. 2015;8(1):9. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2077.155066