How laser tattoo removal works
Laser tattoo removal is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused light energy to break tattoo ink into particles small enough for your body to clear. Your immune system then removes those particles gradually, so the tattoo fades over a series of sessions.
We use a Q-switched laser system with two wavelengths, 1064 nm and 532 nm. Its rapid pulses target the ink while sparing the surrounding tissue, and it treats tattoos on all areas of the body, including detailed forearm tattoos.
Sessions and spacing
Most tattoos need 6 to 10 sessions for full removal, spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. That gap gives your body time to clear the broken-down ink and your skin time to heal before the next treatment.
Every tattoo fades at its own pace, so the plan is customized to:
- Ink color and density
- Tattoo age and size
- Layering, cover-ups or touch-ups
- Ink depth and placement on the body
- Your skin type
Older, smaller tattoos in black ink tend to fade fastest. Dense, multicolor professional work usually takes longer than amateur tattoos.
Which ink colors respond
The two wavelengths cover a broad range of ink. 1064 nm targets black and dark blue, and 532 nm targets red and other warm tones, so multicolor and layered tattoos can be treated in one plan. The system is effective on black, red, green and blue inks.
To be honest about the limits: green and lighter blue inks are often the slowest to fade with these wavelengths and may need extra sessions, and some may not clear completely. Black ink responds best. Dr. Pabona will tell you what to expect for your colors before you start.
Skin types
Our Q-switched system is calibrated to treat all skin types, including Fitzpatrick types IV–VI. For deeper skin tones, the 1064 nm wavelength is typically used because it passes through the skin’s natural pigment more safely.
Fading for a cover-up
You don’t have to remove a tattoo completely. If you’re planning new work, a few sessions can lighten the old design enough for an artist to cover it cleanly, with more freedom in color and design. Fading for a cover-up typically takes fewer sessions than full removal.
Tell us your goal at your skin consultation, and the plan, session count and package will match it. If you already have an artist, bring their input.
What to expect and aftercare
During
Most clients compare the feeling to a rubber band snap. Sessions are quick, and numbing options are available.
Right after
The area often turns briefly white, then looks red and swollen. Blistering or scabbing can happen as it heals, and most people return to daily activities the same day.
While it heals
Keep the area clean, don’t pick at blisters or scabs, and protect it from the sun. Skip hot tubs, baths, pools and bathhouse soaks until the skin is fully healed. Scarring is rare when treatment is performed properly and aftercare instructions are followed.
Results, and what else this laser treats
Our tattoo removal before-and-after photos show a wrist tattoo fading over multiple sessions, early fading of a small black tattoo after one session, and black linework that looks lighter and more fragmented. Patient results vary.
The same Q-switched laser also treats sunspots, freckles, melasma and age spots; see laser melasma and dark spot treatment. You might also explore laser vein reduction for visible veins, a Hydroderm Facial to cleanse and hydrate, or laser skin resurfacing to refine texture.
Dr. Pabona tailors every session to your skin and ink, for patients from Hot Springs and across Central Arkansas.
Tattoo removal pricing
Pricing is based on tattoo size, and six-session packages are discounted for progressive fading. Your skin consultation is complimentary with the purchase of a treatment or skincare product, and CareCredit financing is accepted.
Single sessions
- Extra small (postage stamp size): $149
- Small (business card size): $199
- Medium (size of one hand): $249
- Large (size of two hands): $449
Six-session packages
- Extra small: $799
- Small: $999
- Medium: $1,399
- Large: $2,499
Dermis
- Epidermis
- Dermis
- Deep dermis
- Fat pads
- Muscle
Questions
Common questions about tattoo removal
How much does laser tattoo removal cost in Hot Springs?
Cost depends on the tattoo’s size, colors and ink depth. At Embrace Eternal Beauty in Hot Springs, single sessions start at $149 for an extra small, postage stamp–sized tattoo and reach $449 for a tattoo the size of two hands. Discounted six-session packages run from $799 to $2,499, for full removal or for fading before a cover-up.
How many sessions does laser tattoo removal take?
Most tattoos need 6 to 10 sessions for full removal, spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. The number depends on ink color, how old the tattoo is, its size and whether it’s been layered or touched up. Lightening a tattoo for a cover-up usually takes fewer sessions. Dr. Pabona will estimate your plan after seeing the tattoo in person.
Where is the hardest place to remove a tattoo?
Tattoos on the hands, fingers, feet and ankles are often the slowest to fade. Those areas are farther from the heart and have less circulation and lymphatic drainage, so the body clears broken-down ink more slowly. Tattoos on the torso, upper arms and neck usually fade faster. Placement is one reason two similar tattoos can need a different number of sessions.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Clients often compare it to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Each pulse is very quick and sessions are short, so most people tolerate treatment well, and numbing options are available if you’d like them. Afterward, the area may feel like a mild sunburn for a day or so while it starts to heal.
Will laser tattoo removal leave a scar?
Scarring is rare when treatment is performed properly and you follow your aftercare instructions. Blistering and scabbing can be part of normal healing, so avoid picking, keep the area clean and protect it from the sun. Temporary lightening or darkening of the skin can also happen and usually fades. If a tattoo already left scarring when it was done, that texture may remain.
Can darker skin tones get laser tattoo removal?
Yes. Our Q-switched system is calibrated to treat all skin types, including Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI. For deeper skin tones, the 1064 nm wavelength is typically used because it passes through the skin’s natural pigment more safely. Darker skin can be more prone to temporary pigment changes, so Dr. Pabona adjusts settings and spacing to your skin.
When can I use a hot tub after tattoo removal?
Wait until the treated skin has fully healed, with no blisters, scabs or open areas, which typically takes one to two weeks. Hot tubs, baths, pools and bathhouse soaks can soften healing skin and expose it to bacteria, raising the risk of infection and scarring. Showers are fine. Plan bathhouse visits for the weeks between sessions, once your skin has settled.
