Remove Your Unwanted Tattoos

Laser tattoo removal uses a high-speed laser beam to go through the top layer of skin and target the tattoo ink underneath. This process breaks the tattoot pigment into tiny fragments, which the body's immune system then naturally eliminates.

Many places in London that provide this service use lasers that generate heat. However, we are proud to be the first tattoo studio in London to introduce the PicoWay® laser technology.

Using photoacoustic waves instead of heat, PicoWay® lasers mean faster results, fewer sessions, less pain and more effective breakdown of even stubborn ink.

Learn more about how laser tattoo removal works.

Laser tattoo removal has become the preferred method for removing tattoos due to its safety, effectiveness, and ability to treat various ink colours. It has largely replaced other methods such as excision, dermabrasion, and salabrasion. Here are some key differences between laser tattoo removal and other methods:

a. Safety and minimal side effects: lasers are considered safer than other methods because they selectively target the pigment in the tattoo without damaging the surrounding skin. Other methods, like excision and dermabrasion, can cause more damage to the skin and result in scarring.

b. Effectiveness: Laser tattoo removal can remove or fade tattoos more effectively than other methods. It works by targeting pigment colors in the skin's dermis, breaking up the ink into smaller particles that the immune system can digest and remove. This process requires multiple treatments, but it can successfully remove or fade most tattoos.

c. Ability to treat various ink colors: Lasers can treat a wide range of ink colours, including those that were once difficult to remove, such as greens, yellows, and turquoise. This is due to advancements in laser technology, which allows for the targeting of specific pigment colours.

d. Less invasive: It is a less invasive procedure compared to methods like excision or dermabrasion, which involve removing layers of skin. Laser treatment only treats the pigment in the tattoo, making it a less invasive option.

e. Reduced scarring: The laser removal method typically results in little to no scarring at the tattoo site or on the surrounding skin, unlike other removal methods that can cause more scarring.

Given these advantages, it's clear why laser tattoo removal has emerged as the leading method for removing unwanted tattoos, outperforming traditional techniques in terms of safety, effectiveness, versatility, invasiveness, and minimal scarring.

Tattoo removal has seen significant advancements with the introduction of picosecond lasers, which are considered more effective and faster than the older-style Q-switched lasers. An examples of a picosecond laser is the PicoWay® that we use here at Cloak & Dagger.

The PicoWay® laser can remove any colour ink, utilising different wavelengths for specific colours: 785nm targets green and blue ink, 532nm is effective on red, orange, and yellow, while 1064nm is used for black, brown, purple and other dark shades.

For context, traditional tattoo removal often employs the outdated Q-switched laser technology,. The most common types of Q-switched lasers include the Nd:YAG, ruby laser, and alexandrite laser. The Q-switched ruby and alexandrite lasers are for removing black, blue, and green pigments. The Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, on the other hand, can target a broader range of colours depending on its wavelength.

To prepare for a tattoo removal session, follow these steps:

a. Consult a professional: Speak with a tattoo removal expert to understand the process, risks, and benefits, and to set realistic expectations.

b. Stay out of the sun: Avoid sun excessive exposure.

c. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Stay hydrated, eat healthily.

d. Clean the area: Shower or bathe before the appointment, ensuring the area to be treated is clean and free of lotions, oils, creams, or fragrances.

e. Wear loose clothing: Dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that won't rub against the treated area.

Remember that tattoo removal is a process that requires multiple sessions, and results may not be visible for several weeks. It's essential to stay consistent and persistent throughout the treatment to achieve the best results.