FAQs

How does the laser tattoo removal treatment work?
Selective absorption of very high peak power laser light pulses by the tattoo ink in the skin causes the targeted ink particles to breakdown mechanically while significantly decreasing potential damage to surrounding tissues. The fragmented particles are then removed from the skin by the bodies immune or lymphatic system.
How many treatments are required?
The number of required treatments is dependent on several factors, including depth of ink penetration, age of the tattoo & colour intensity- that is, lighter versus darker colours. Generally some colours are removed easier than others. All tattoos are different and will require a different numbers of treatments, however you will begin seeing results after only one or two sessions.
For tattoo fading, a few treatments might lighten a tattoo enough for a replacement to be applied over top.
How much time do you leave between treatments?
Even though most people find the area usually heals within a couple weeks, treatments are scheduled 6 to 8 weeks apart (sometimes longer) to allow your body to absorb the pigment residue completely. Some places may tell you its fine to come sooner, however rushing the process can cause more negative effects.
How is the healing process?
Healing for tattoo removal when done properly is usually much easier and faster than healing from the original tattoo.
Is any recovery time needed between treatment sessions?

Although treatment sessions are scheduled approximately six to eight weeks apart, no rest or recuperation time is required after each visit. It is advised to avoid contact sports or any other activity that could cause bruising of the treated area. As well, do not go swimming or use hot tubs/whirlpools. If you are going to be in the sun, the area should be covered until completely healed to prevent damage to the skin.

What types of tattoos can be removed?
While certain pigments & inks are harder to remove than others, the majority of colours can be removed including black, blue, green, brown and even red. Lighter colours are more difficult to remove than darker ones, with white being the most difficult. Homemade tattoos tend to come off easily.
Does it hurt?
Everyone has a different pain threshold. The degree is similar to the discomfort can feel slightly more intense then receiving a tattoo but that discomfort subsides much quicker than tattooing pain. Many people say it feels like an elastic band snapped on the skin. However, we utilize the SmartCool6TM cooling system to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
Are there any side effects to the treatment?
Overall, treatments are gentle and mild, causing only slight discomfort with minimal side effects. However, infection possibly can occur if proper aftercare is not followed.
Scarring from our work is rare however no technician can predict for sure if any will occur. Proper aftercare of the treated area will significantly reduce the chances of scarring.

Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, a darkening or lightening of the skin in the area being treated, may occur however this is usually temporary.

Can I have only part of a tattoo removed?
Yes, we are able to remove unwanted parts of a tattoo for removal or cover up purposes. We are very accurate with the laser. The spot size of the laser is much bigger then a needle, so there is only so tight of an area we can get into without affecting the other parts of the tattoo.
How does pricing work?
Pricing is based on size, colour, saturation and number of treatments. For an accurate quote we need to see it in person. There are things we need to see that pictures are unlikely to show about the tattoo. You are able to pay per session, however packages are available at a discounted price. Come in for a Free Consultation.
What to expect:
  • Multiple treatments are necessary. Everyone is unique and responds differently.
  • Complete removal of all tattoos is not always possible. However, you will notice a dramatic lightening of the treated area.
  • For the best results, follow the technician’s pre & post treatment care instructions. Come in For a Free Consultation.
What Laser do You Use?/ Do You Use the Picosure?

We often are asked if we use the Picosure laser. There is a lot of marketing rhetoric out there about less sessions and quicker healing with the Picosure. However, please do your research.

We use the Quanta Q-plus C. The reason why we chose the Quanta Q-plus C is it is the only three true wavelength machine that will target all tattoo colours. These wavelengths are Nd:Yag 1064, KTP 532, and Ruby 694. The energy of these wavelengths represent the depth at which the laser targets the ink. They are very specific. Different colour ink settles at different depths in the skin. Black sits the deepest and is easiest to remove. It is targeted by 1064. Red/orange settle at the surface and is targeted by 532. Blue and green, though sometimes harder to remove, can be removed with the Ruby 694 wavelength.

The PicoSure uses a 755 wavelength. This was one of the first wavelengths used for tattoo removal. It falls right between 694 and 1064. Essentially the reactions happens past the 694 (blue/green) wavelength and stops before 1064 (black) wavelength. Yes it may work on some tattoos, but it doesn’t go deep enough into the black and it bypasses the blue and green. And it is completely ineffective on reds/oranges. Even though some colours are effected by the wavelength it does not hit any specifically, nor at the correct depth.

A couple other advantages to the Quanta Q-plus C is it has the highest fluencies, out of any laser, in all wavelengths. (Strongest ink breaking ability). And it uses a square, flat topped beam rather than a round beam as used by the Picosure and other lasers. The square beam results in an even distribution of energy to the treated area and eliminates the laser pulse from overlapping while treating. Overlapping treatments result in skin damage that can be permanent. The result of the Quanta Q-plus C is a stronger, more precise and safer treatment. The laser uses a non- ionizing radiation, meaning it does not change any cell structure. Depending on the wavelength used by the laser, different pigments of ink in the skin are targeted and broken down into smaller particles using a thermal acoustic wavelength. Over the next several weeks, your body’s lymphatic system will slowly clean away the ink particles, expelling by the body.

We also use a Zimmer Chiller which blows cold air on the skin during treatment which reduces discomfort and helps

The Quanta Q-Plus C laser removes tattoos quicker than other Q-Switched lasers and the healing time is the fastest on the market…which by the way, has more to do with technique then anything.

Keep in mind that it’s not only the laser that you need to look at when researching laser tattoo removal. The knowledge and skill of the laser tattoo removal technician is key to a successful treatment, quick healing time. Anyone can turn on a laser, however in the wrong hands, you can be left with irrepairable damage.

We prefer to live off reviews and reputation for great results opposed to advertising with marketing rhetoric. Book a complimentary consultation today to see the difference at Fading Fast.

Still considering the PicoSure? A current Class Action Law suit is being conducted in the United States against the Manufacturer.

Read the full document here:
https://www.truthinadvertising.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/LDGP-v-Cynosure-complaint.pdf