Tattoo Removal: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Tattoo Removal?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a board-certified dermatologist (a skin doctor) for tattoo removal. The lasers are cleared for use by a health care professional, or under their supervision. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Lasers are the most common way health care professionals remove or lighten tattoos. The laser light breaks the ink into small particles, and the immune system clears them over time. The American Academy of Dermatology says lasers have largely replaced other tattoo-removal methods.
Why a doctor might recommend it
People may want a tattoo removed because life changes or the tattoo did not come out as hoped.
How to prepare
A visit comes first because there is a lot to think about before a tattoo is removed.
A dermatologist will think about the following.
- How long you have had the tattoo
- The colors in your tattoo
- The medicines you take
- Whether you have ever had a raised scar
You need a healthy immune system for laser tattoo removal to work. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not be treated. You may want to ask to see before-and-after photos of patients your dermatologist has treated.
What happens during it
The type of laser depends on the tattoo’s colors. A tattoo with many colors may need more than one laser. Laser tattoo removal is like snapping a thin rubber band against the skin. If it is painful, a small amount of numbing cream can be applied to the skin before the procedure. Laser tattoo removal takes several treatments, with a few weeks apart so the skin can heal.
Recovery
After laser tattoo removal, you may see some redness, swelling, and a little blistering. Follow your dermatologist’s instructions for at-home care. Protect your treated skin from the sun for 3 months. Wear clothing that covers the area to protect your skin. Keep all of your appointments for laser tattoo removal.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop, trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, or fainting.
Risks and side effects
Laser tattoo removal can leave skin that is lighter than the skin around it. Some people develop light or dark spots on their skin. These spots tend to disappear within 6 to 12 months. Risks include possible scarring and infection. Side effects are more common when someone lacks medical training.
These more common side effects include the following.
- Scarring
- Changes to the skin’s texture
- Burns and other wounds
A single laser cannot remove all ink colors.
Who performs it
Your results depend almost entirely on who removes the tattoo. The FDA says laser tattoo removal can be safe and work well when a trained health care professional does it.
Common questions
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Laser tattoo removal can feel uncomfortable or painful. It is like snapping a thin rubber band against the skin.
Why do I need more than one laser treatment?
A laser cannot safely break down all the layers of ink in 1 session. Your skin needs time to heal. Your body also needs time to flush out the ink.
Can a tattoo be removed completely?
Removing a tattoo completely can take many treatments, and in some cases it may not be possible.
Do tattoo removal creams work?
The American Academy of Dermatology says no evidence shows that these creams, ointments, or kits remove a tattoo. These products may cause skin rashes, burns, or scars.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology - Tattoo removal: Lasers outshine other methods
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Tattoo Removal: Options and Results
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
