Enlighten Tattoo Removal
Bellevue & Seattle WA
Recent studies have shown that about a quarter of the United States population has at least one tattoo. While some people are completely content with their tattoos, other people experience tattoo regret. Many people having experienced this regret have undergone some form of tattoo removal treatment, or at least have thought about getting their ink removed or lightened.
What is Laser Tattoo Removal?
Tattoo removal has become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments. Independent research shows that laser tattoo removal is the safest and quickest treatment to remove unwanted tattoos. It is also the least likely to damage your skin. In fact, some say it’s less painful than getting a tattoo.
Lasers for tattoo removal are highly specialized. A tattoo laser is designed specifically to penetrate deeply enough to attack the color particles of the ink, but not so deeply as to create permanent tissue damage or other residual reminders of the tattoo you are trying to remove.
Enlighten Laser For Tattoo Removal
At Kristin J. Tarbet, MD, we use the enlighten laser for tattoo removal, which is the leader in the industry. As the world’s first, and only, dual wavelength (1064 nm + 532 nm) and dual pulse duration (picosecond + nanosecond) laser system, Enlighten offers removal options that traditional lasers could never do! This laser is safe for all skin colors and skin types. It has shown exceptional clearance of all ink colors and in shorter and fewer sessions.
How Does Tattoo Removal Work?
Laser technology produces short pulses of light which penetrate the upper layers of the skin to reach the embedded ink. The tattoo ink is disintegrated into smaller particles through the absorption of light into the skin’s pigment. These smaller, broken up particles are then able to be removed by the body’s immune system. Externally, you will be able to see your tattoo gradually fading – it will become lighter and lighter after every treatment.
Preparing For Laser Tattoo Removal
In preparation for your laser tattoo removal treatment, you should avoid sun exposure, use sunscreen, and cover up for four weeks prior to your first laser tattoo removal session. Tanned skin looks great, but it is more prone to adverse reactions. Wear loose fitting clothing over the area to be treated.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Painful?
Laser tattoo removal is generally not painful at all. Some people liken the pulsing sensation to the mild snap of a rubber band on the skin. Most patients don’t experience any significant discomfort during the removal process, but topical anesthetic is available to minimize any discomfort if needed. Ice packs can be applied after the treatment to help minimize any mild soreness that may occur in the treatment area.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Safe?
Laser treatment is often safer than many other tattoo removal methods, such as excision or dermabrasion because laser treatment selectively treats the pigment in the tattoo.
If you are interested in removing your unwanted tattoos, contact the office of Kristin J. Tarbet, MD. Call us at 425-455-2131 to schedule a consultation with one of our laser specialists. Our practice serves Bellevue, Seattle, and surrounding areas in Washington.
What Our Patients Have to Say
“Dr. Tarbet and staff very professional. Dr. Tarbet listened to what I wanted, made notes, took pictures, and more importantly patiently explained everything. Next Nancy sent me an email attachment with all the things that were required for me to do before surgery. The rest is history! Successful surgery and I’m very pleased with the results. Top-notch team!” -Donald H
How Many Laser Treatments Will I Need To Remove My Tattoo?
A laser specialist at our office will work with you to assess your tattoo and review a treatment plan of how many sessions would be needed for removal. While many tattoos appear significantly lighter after a few treatments, several visits are usually required to completely remove your tattoo. Tattoos fade after each treatment as the laser breaks down and removes the ink.
Over the course of a short series of sessions, the targeted tattoo will gradually fade. Once the tattoo has been successfully removed the result is permanent. Typically with the Enlighten system, your tattoo will be removed in half the number of sessions compared to traditional lasers.
Tattoo Removal Before & After
Aftercare Process Following Tattoo Removal
After tattoo removal, it is very important to follow all the instructions provided. Patients should avoid the sun, tanning beds, and lotions. Keeping the treatment area moist is important, so patients are advised to use a topical antibiotic cream and wear a bandage to keep the area clean. Patients must avoid any other aesthetic treatments in the treatment area until given the go-ahead by the physician.