So you have finally decided to get rid of that pesky tattoo. If you are considering undergoing a laser tattoo removal procedure, you likely have a number of questions on your mind. One of the most common questions that people have is how long the procedure will take? Fortunately, a tattoo removal session happens faster than you may think.

When it comes to the length of time that a tattoo removal session will take, there is no simple answer that applies to everyone. The good news is that tattoo removal is significantly faster than the time it originally took to tattoo it. Sessions may last only a few seconds, but can also last an hour or more when you are dealing with a very large tattoo.

Let’s examine a few considerations when it comes to tattoo removal. These factors will add up to determining how long your laser tattoo removal session will take.

Pain Tolerance

When a professional is removing your tattoo, your comfort is their number one priority. This is the main factor influencing how long your tattoo removal session will take. In cases of those who have a healthy tolerance for pain, a tattoo removal session can move along fairly quickly. For those who are a bit more squeamish, the process can take a bit longer. Ultimately, how long your tattoo removal session takes comes down to you and your pain tolerance. It can go as quickly or slowly as you wish. You will never be rushed through a tattoo removal session.

Tattoo Location

The location of your tattoo on the body is also a good predictor of the level of pain that you will be experiencing, as well as the length of the laser session. In most cases, parts of the body that were tender during the original tattoo session will also lead to more pain during the tattoo removal. When it comes to removing smaller tattoos, the process can proceed according to your pain tolerance, but in cases of larger tattoos, time constraints may lead to a necessity for multiple treatment sessions to treat the entire tattoo area. Cold air can be directed into the area of treatment so that the laser treatment process is as comfortable as possible.

Tattoo Size

Naturally, when a tattoo is larger in size, it will take longer to remove. When removing very large tattoos, the tattoo may need to be divided into ‘smaller chunks’ that require multiple treatment sessions. In addition to pain tolerance considerations, this method makes it easier on your body.

Tattoo Type

The style of the tattoo that you want removed is also a consideration when it comes to how long your tattoo removal session will take. Thick or extremely dark tattoos contain much more ink, so this type of session will take longer than other types of work.

Tattoo Colors

Tattoos that are made up of multiple colors, as opposed to plain black tattoos, can lead to a longer treatment session. The individual laser settings required for your tattoo removal will be impacted by tattoos that contain black ink and other colors. Specific wavelengths of light are used to treat specific colors. Adjusting the equipment to account for these factors will take additional time.

Bottom Line

Getting that pesky tattoo removed will take more time, depending upon the location, size, type, and color of your tattoo. Asking for a consultation before undergoing your tattoo removal session can give you a better idea of approximately how long it will take to remove your tattoo.