Tattoo removal
Want to get rid of a tattoo?
We pioneered laser tattoo removal as the very first clinic in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg more than 30 years ago. In all these years, our treatments have made a big difference to thousands of clients and tattoo removal has been perfected within our clinic.
But how exactly does treatment take place? What do you all need to consider? And how long does the process take?
Very professional- good explanation - top treatment
Merve
What exactly is a tattoo?
Laser specialist Tanja explains:
A tattoo consists of ink encapsulated (stuck) in the skin. Tattooing involves applying ink just below the epidermis. As the ink is a foreign substance, it is encapsulated by the body on the spot. This ensures that the ink remains permanently visible there.
Tattoos can be done almost anywhere on the body. There is also a choice of different types of ink and colour. For example, tattoos can also be put as permanent make-up on eyebrows. Over time, a tattoo may fade, discolour, or simply go out of style.
Super experience had. Knowledgeable and good practitioner for my pmu removal.
Ellen
Our solution
We can generally treat unwanted permanent tattoos well using our lasers. With a laser, we give an extremely short tap of intense energy on the encapsulated ink, releasing the ink. The released ink can then be disposed of by the body through the lymphatic system.
Several treatments are always needed to optimally remove the ink. The tattoo will fade more after each treatment. Because there are many types of ink in circulation and tattoos can be done in different ways, we can never guarantee that a tattoo will become 100% invisible. What we do see is that tattoos generally fade considerably.
The consultation
As a first step, we always want to see the tattoo and the skin. Because every tattoo is different, we put together a personalised treatment plan during a consultation. So the exact price and number of treatments required also vary from person to person.
During the consultation with one of our experienced skin specialists, your wishes, options and what you can realistically expect from the treatment will be discussed in detail.
With over 30 years of experience, even the most challenging cases are referred to us
A consultation with one of our laser specialists costs € 35,-. These costs will be deducted from the costs of the first treatment, provided the treatment takes place within 6 months of the consultation date. If you are already fairly certain that you wish to be treated, we can usually combine a consultation with an initial treatment on request.
Three reasons to choose us:
Pre-care
Before treatment with lasers, the following is important:
- Sun, sunbed and the use of self-tanning cream (bronzer) should be avoided from 4 weeks before treatment. It is important that the skin is as light as possible (not tanned) before laser treatment.
- If you pregnant are or breastfeeding gives you cannot be treated.
Very good advice received and we were also able to take immediate action - I'm super happy!
Roland
Treatment
During the treatment, the practitioner places the handpiece of the laser on (part of) the tattoo. The laser then emits an intense flash of light (pulse) of one wavelength in a fraction of a second. Each laser pulse treats an area of about 4 mm2. The flash of light is selectively absorbed by the ink particles encapsulated in the skin. The laser energy breaks open the encapsulations, allowing the ink to be removed by the body's immune system.
However, the body cannot break down this released ink all at once. This means that the remaining ink is recapsulated. As a result, several treatments are always needed. If your body responds well to the laser, the tattoo will fade more and more over the months.
Each treatment is tailored to the type of ink, color, skin type and location of the tattoo on the body.
Exactly how your tattoo responds to laser treatment depends on a number of factors. The type of tattoo is important, for example: amateur tattoos generally contain less ink per unit area, and the ink used is usually vegetable-based. Colour also complicates an exact prediction: different colours often need to be treated differently. Finally, it makes a difference whether a tattoo was done in one go or if it has been touched up several times.
The location of the tattoo on the body also determines exactly how the treatment should be deployed - some areas are more sensitive than others. After the first treatment, it will become clear which type of laser the ink in your tattoo reacts best to.
The number of treatments also depends on these factors. The average for amateur tattoos is between 8 to 12 treatments, while professional tattoos need more treatments.
The treatment is not painless, but it can be tolerated even without anaesthesia. Some compare it to the application of the tattoo, others to the slap of a stretched rubber band against the skin. For larger tattoos, we do often choose to use a numbing cream.
Was very well helped and informed in a short consultation. Learned so much. Walked out of the clinic satisfied. Thank you!
Imke
Our experts
Over 30 years of experience
The skin is our largest organ and deserves all our attention and expertise. With more than 30 years of experience, our specialists have treated a wide variety of skin types and tattoos. As a result, they have the knowledge and experience to treat your skin in a safe and effective manner.
The skin is our largest organ. You want the best for that too, don't you?
How can I be sure I am in safe hands?
Choice Guide
- How to choose a good clinic and cosmetic practitioner? Here we'll provide you with some tips
Nowadays we are flooded with cosmetic treatments, trends and hypes. In every neighborhood of the city there are several clinics that offer various types of treatments, each claiming to be better than the other.
But how do you choose a good clinic? And how do you know for sure that you end up with a competent practitioner?
We are happy to help you on your way with our choice guide:
First the basics
- First, check if the clinic has a good reputation or if you know people who can recommend the clinic. A quick Google search for the clinic in question will get you a long way. Now, you don't have to be put off by a few bad reviews, but if a clinic has a lot of negative reviews, it might be smart to look elsewhere.
- Who do you have an appointment with and is that the person who will also treat you? You can ask these questions directly by phone or email at the reception. It is wise to then google that practitioner and see if they have the right certifications and diplomas, regardless of what is stated on the website of the clinic itself. You can search for a skin therapist, cosmetic doctor, or plastic surgeon.
The consultation
Once you have chosen a clinic and practitioner, it is time for a consultation. During this consultation you can ask the following questions:
- How often should I be treated?
- What degrees and certifications do you have?
- How much does a treatment cost?
- What kind of aftercare do you provide and is this included in the price?
- What happens if the result is not good enough?
Lastly…
- Were all your questions answered properly during the consultation? Realize that you have every right to ask questions and that these must be answered clearly.
- Take your time. A practitioner should never force you to undergo a treatment right now. Does it feel pushy? Or do you still have doubts? Then say that you would like to think about it and that you will contact them if you want to start the treatment.
Aftercare
After treatment, the following practical matters apply:
- If we have put bandages over the tattoo, preferably leave it on for 24 hours.
- Some blistering may have occurred.
- The skin may be red, irritated and/or swollen. The skin may also itch and flakes and scabs may form.
- It is important not to scratch! The scabs should come off on their own.
- The healing process takes about 1 to 2 weeks.
- It is important not to expose the treated area to the sun or sunbed for the first 4 weeks after treatment.
- At all times, we recommend the use of sun protection (SPF 30-50) and to reapply it every 2 hours if you go out in the sun.
It is always a pleasure to come and experience your great professionalism!
Kia
Results
During and immediately after the treatment, the skin becomes white and opaque. This effect disappears after 20-30 minutes, after which the tattoo looks like it did before treatment.
Your body will break down the ink released by the laser treatment. This process (and therefore a visible result) takes time, on average about 6 to 8 weeks. During this period, the tattoo will become paler, until the released ink is either broken down or partially recaptured by the body.
The most challenging tattoos are often forwarded to us
In fact, a tattoo almost never disappears after 1 or 2 treatments. The tattoo does slowly lighten after each treatment, until the ink is optimally removed.
After a number of laser treatments, your tattoo will gradually fade. Because every tattoo and skin is different, we can never guarantee a complete removal in advance, or the time frame in which the optimal result will be achieved. This will be discussed in detail during the treatment period.
Very professional, friendly and honest. I feel confident here that I am in good hands with professionals who also tell me honestly what can and cannot be done
Jacqui
Follow-up treatments
On average, we see that amateur tattoos require 8 to 12 treatments, while professional tattoos require more treatments. Between each treatment 6 to 8 weeks sit first to give the body a chance to drain the released ink.
Prices
Laser tattoo removal starts from € 95,-.
The exact price, together with a personalised treatment plan, will be drawn up during the consultation with one of our laser specialists.
A consultation with one of our laser specialists costs € 35,-. These costs will be deducted from the costs of the first treatment, provided that this treatment takes place within 6 months after the consultation date. On request, we can in most cases schedule a consultation with a treatment immediately afterwards.
Q&A
What lasers do you use to remove tattoos?
Laser specialist Tanja explains:
We use the Q-switched Ruby laser, Q-switched Nd YAG laser and KTP laser for tattoo removal. Despite these lasers being of an older generation, our experience is that they are unmatched in strength and energy, even compared to the latest generation of lasers.
Our more than 30 years of experience has the advantage that we know very well how to use the power of our lasers in a safe way.
How long does a treatment take?
Skin therapist Naomi explains:
The duration of a treatment depends entirely on the area to be treated. Treating a 1 cm2 tattoo takes about 10 minutes, while a coloured-in tattoo of 10 by 10 cm takes about 30 minutes.
I would like the same practitioner all the time, is that possible?
Laser specialist Tanja explains:
Of course you can! What's more, you basically enter a treatment programme with one of our practitioners. Follow-up appointments are therefore always booked with the same practitioner. Of course, it is also possible to change practitioners, but we usually see clients staying with the same practitioner.
Does the treatment hurt?
Laser specialist Tanja explains:
The treatment is not painless, but it can be tolerated even without anaesthesia. Some compare it to the application of the tattoo, others to the slap of a stretched rubber band against the skin. For larger tattoos, we do often choose to use a numbing cream.
There are many laser clinics offering this treatment. Why should I choose you?
Skin therapist Naomi explains:
Often clinics rely on 1 type of laser they use to remove tattoos. We have a choice of multiple lasers that react to ink in their own unique way. Is one laser not working well enough? Then we have ample choice to deploy another. This allows us to remove by far the most tattoos effectively.
In addition, we have heart for our customers and our aftercare is second to none. Is something wrong? Or do you still have a question? With us, treatment does not stop as soon as you walk out the door, but you are always welcome for questions or check-ups.
Any doubts? No problem. We are firm believers that you should look around carefully. You can use the Choice Guide we have compiled to make an informed choice wherever you go.
How many treatments do I need?
Skin therapist Naomi explains:
The number of treatments depends on the type of ink, colour, your skin type and the location of the tattoo. The average for amateur tattoos is between 8 to 15 treatments, while professional tattoos require more treatments. For best results, there should be a period of at least 6 to 8 weeks between each treatment.
Permanent make-up removal requires fewer treatments on average and a minimum of six weeks between each appointment.
Can there also be more than 6 to 8 weeks between treatments?
Laser specialist Tanja explains:
Yes, more time is definitely allowed between treatments. There should be a minimum of six to eight weeks between each treatment, but you may therefore wait even longer if it is so convenient due to holidays, for example, or tanned skin.
When can I come for follow-up treatment?
Skin therapist Naomi explains:
There should be six to eight weeks between each treatment. With a shorter period, the body has not finished clearing the ink and a follow-up treatment is not as effective.
Does the tattoo eventually go away completely?
Skin therapist Naomi explains:
After a number of laser treatments, your tattoo will gradually fade away. However, we can never guarantee in advance the complete removal, or the time frame in which the optimal result will be achieved. This is because we can never know exactly what kind of ink was used and how it was set. During the treatment process, however, we keep a close eye on how the ink reacts and adjust our estimate accordingly.
In general, we see that colours are the most difficult to remove completely.
Will I always see the texture of the tattoo?
Laser specialist Tanja explains:
Usually, if a tattoo is set 'properly', you will see almost nothing of it after removal. In some cases, the tattoo is like a scar. You can then already see and feel this as a thickening under the tattoo. We can then remove the colour from the tattoo, but the relief of the tattoo will still be slightly visible. In some cases, we do not succeed in removing all the ink completely. A kind of haze may then remain of the tattoo, like a 'watermark'.
Could I eventually tattoo over the treated skin again?
Skin therapist Naomi explains:
Yes, you can. However, you should wait at least eight weeks after the last treatment before getting a new tattoo.
Can I also have only part of the tattoo removed and leave the rest?
Skin therapist Naomi explains:
Yes, we can also remove part of a tattoo. However, keep in mind that the laser may also clear the ink around the treated area and the tattoo may need to be touched up slightly later.
What will my skin look like after treatment?
Laser specialist Tanja explains:
During and immediately after the treatment, the skin becomes white and opaque. This effect disappears after 20 to 30 minutes, after which the tattoo looks like it did before treatment.
In the days following treatment, the skin may be red, irritated and/or swollen. Flakes and scabs may also form. After 1-2 weeks, the skin is usually back to normal.
Am I forever more susceptible to sunburn after treatment?
Laser specialist Tanja explains:
No, the treated skin is sensitive to the sun only for 4 weeks after treatment. The skin is not permanently more sensitive after that. So after 4 weeks, you can go out in the sun as usual.
We do recommend always using a good SPF (factor 30) when going out in the sun, but that is not necessarily related to this treatment!