What Does Laser Tattoo Removal Feel Like?

What does laser tattoo removal feel like? I searched for that answer before removing mine, and couldn't find it. So, I'll share what it felt like for me. This article is all based off my personal experience, and researched knowledge on the process of tattoo removal with the Fotona QX MAX laser. Seriously Skin is the location doing my removal work, and I highly recommend them. You can find a lot of information on their site explaining more about the removal process.

Body modification, tattoos and tattoo removal is very personal. I have over 5 tattoos and my right leg is in the process of being sleeved. The one I chose to remove not only looks bad, but it has memories associated with it that I no longer want (live and learn). The pain from applying a tattoo vs. removal is not really comparable. They are two very different sensations. Also, expect to pay about 3-10x more for removal than application. It can become a costly venture, but results are amazing, even after the first treatment.

A lot of people describe getting a tattoo as a "pleasure spiked with pain feeling". I've found this to be true. Tattoo application is painful, not unbearable, but also strangely addictive as well.

I didn't think the same would apply for removal until I had a treatment done. But the craving for more treatments is not fueled by the physical sensation, it's fueled by the results. Removal hurts in a way I had never experienced before. The minute you think you can't take anymore, it's over.

Some places offer inject-able numbing, if I ever remove larger tattoos I'd opt for it. They also provide a topical numbing solution, which I found useless. The removal process is very fast, we're talking seconds. Obviously, it's not like applying a piece of artwork, you're literally erasing with a laser eraser! So there is no need for the technician to stay in between the lines.

• Rug burn
• "like having a sunburn, and someone drawing on it"
• Being scratched repeatedly with a pin

• Like a hot splattering grease burn
• Electrical zaps
• Cold zaps
• Being flicked with a rubber band repeatedly

Removing a tattoo is a process. It's just as personal as getting a tattoo. There are risks associated with removal, albeit minimal and it can become expensive. Many people choose removal treatments to lighten a tattoo so that it can be re-worked. Black and red inks tend to remove the easiest. Expect your removal to have 6-12 weeks recovery time before another treatment. The longer you can wait, the longer your body has to remove, fade, and absorb the ink that was disrupted, so don't rush the process. The pain with removal is tolerable, and aftercare is minimal. Keep it iced every 15 min for the first 6-12 hours, and keep it clean. You don't have to apply special ointments or lotion unless you have open skin (or blistering). I'm very happy with my first treatment but pray for my pocketbook to only have maybe 2 more.

Sure it's expensive to remove a tattoo, but if you regret such decisions, or have a job requiring a tattoo to be hidden, then removal may be just what you're looking for.

It's more painful than getting a tattoo applied, but not painful enough to be unbearable.

I'm very happy with my first application, and cannot wait to have this particular tattoo removed. I highly recommend the removal of a tattoo by laser if you can afford to have it done.