Laser tattoo removal works by targeting tattoo ink particles embedded in your skin with highly concentrated pulses of light energy. The laser beam penetrates the outer skin layer and is absorbed specifically by the tattoo pigment without damaging surrounding tissue. When the ink particles absorb this intense light energy, they heat up rapidly and shatter into tiny fragments through a process called photoacoustic disruption. Once the ink particles are broken into smaller pieces, your body’s immune system recognizes them as foreign materials and gradually removes them through the lymphatic system over the weeks following treatment. This natural elimination process causes the tattoo to progressively fade with each session. At Estelaza Clinic, we use advanced Q-switched and picosecond lasers that deliver energy in billionths or trillionths of a second, creating maximum ink fragmentation while minimizing heat damage to surrounding skin. Different laser wavelengths target different ink colors, which is why we use multi-wavelength systems to effectively address all colors in your tattoo.

The number of sessions required for complete tattoo removal varies significantly based on multiple factors. Most professional tattoos require 6-12 treatment sessions for complete or near-complete removal, though some stubborn tattoos may need 15 or more sessions. Amateur tattoos sometimes respond more quickly, potentially clearing in 4-8 sessions. Factors affecting session requirements include ink colors (black and dark blue remove fastest, while colors like green, purple, and white require more treatments), tattoo age (older tattoos often fade faster), ink quality and density (professional tattoos are denser and require more sessions), tattoo size and location (extremities may require more treatments due to slower circulation), and your skin type and immune response. At Estelaza Clinic, we provide personalized estimates during your consultation after thoroughly assessing your tattoo. Sessions must be spaced at least 6-8 weeks apart to allow complete healing and maximum fading, meaning the entire removal process typically spans 12-24 months. Patience is essential for optimal results.

Tattoo removal does involve some discomfort, though most patients find it very tolerable, especially with the pain management measures we provide. Many people compare the sensation to getting the original tattoo, though removal sessions are typically much shorter. The feeling is often described as similar to a rubber band snapping against skin repeatedly, hot grease splattering on skin, or intense heat with each laser pulse. At Estelaza Clinic, we make every effort to ensure your comfort through topical numbing cream applied 30-45 minutes before treatment, integrated cooling systems that deliver cold air with each laser pulse, ice packs applied before and after treatment, and breaks during longer sessions for larger tattoos. For particularly sensitive areas or anxious patients, we can discuss additional comfort options including injectable local anesthesia. Pain levels vary by location, with areas like ribs, feet, hands, spine, and neck being more sensitive, while outer arms, thighs, and buttocks typically cause less discomfort. Most patients report that the results are well worth the temporary discomfort.

Complete tattoo removal is possible for many tattoos, but several factors influence whether yours will disappear entirely. Black and dark blue tattoos often achieve complete or near-complete clearance with the skin returning to its natural state. Multi-colored tattoos can usually be removed completely, though stubborn colors like purple, white, and certain greens may leave faint traces. Professional tattoos using high-quality inks can be completely removed but require more sessions than amateur work. At Estelaza Clinic, we provide honest assessments during consultation about your specific tattoo’s removal potential. Some tattoos fade to the point where they’re essentially invisible to others even if you can still detect very faint shadowing up close. For patients seeking tattoo removal for cover-up purposes rather than complete elimination, we can typically fade tattoos to a level where skilled artists can work over them effectively. It’s important to have realistic expectations. While modern laser technology is remarkably effective, complete 100% removal without any trace isn’t guaranteed for every tattoo, particularly those with problematic colors or very deep ink placement.

Modern laser technology can address virtually all tattoo colors, though some remove more easily than others. Black and dark blue inks respond best to laser treatment and typically require the fewest sessions for complete removal. Red, orange, and yellow pigments respond well with appropriate laser wavelengths (532nm). Green and blue inks can be effectively treated with specialized wavelengths. Purple, white, and pastel colors are most challenging and may never completely disappear, though significant fading is usually achievable. At Estelaza Clinic, we use multi-wavelength laser systems that include 1064nm for black and dark inks, 532nm for red, orange, and yellow pigments, 694nm for blue and green inks, and picosecond technology for stubborn colors. Some cosmetic tattoo pigments containing metallic compounds require special consideration as they may darken initially when treated with certain wavelengths before eventually fading. Multi-colored tattoos require systematic treatment addressing each color with appropriate wavelengths, which is why they typically require more sessions than single-color tattoos. During your consultation, we assess your specific ink colors and explain expected removal outcomes for each.

Tattoo removal cost in Dubai varies based on several factors, making it difficult to provide a single price without assessment. At Estelaza Clinic, pricing depends on tattoo size measured in square centimeters or inches (larger tattoos cost more per session), color complexity (black-only tattoos cost less than multi-colored pieces requiring multiple wavelengths), number of sessions required (varies by tattoo characteristics), and whether you choose per-session pricing or package deals. Small tattoos under 2 inches might range from a few hundred dirhams per session, while large pieces like full sleeves or back pieces cost significantly more. We offer comprehensive treatment packages that provide better value than individual sessions and include all treatments needed to achieve your goals. During your consultation, we assess your specific tattoo and provide transparent, detailed pricing for your complete removal journey. We also offer flexible payment plans to make treatment accessible. While tattoo removal represents a significant investment, achieving clear skin or preparing for better artwork provides value that many patients find well worth the cost. We believe in honest pricing that reflects the quality technology, expertise, and comprehensive care we provide.

Acne scar removal treatments focus on improving existing scars rather than preventing new ones. However, some treatments can improve overall skin health and texture, which may support better healing if new breakouts occur. The best way to prevent new acne scars is to treat active acne promptly and avoid picking or squeezing pimples. At Estelaza Clinic, we can also provide acne management strategies and treatments to help control active breakouts and minimize the risk of future scarring. A comprehensive approach that addresses both existing scars and active acne prevention will give you the best long-term results.

Yes, you can absolutely get a new tattoo after complete removal and healing. Once your removal is finished and your skin has fully healed (typically 3-6 months after your final laser session), the treated area will be ready for new artwork. Your skin should return to its natural state with minimal textural changes when proper laser technique is used. Many patients pursue tattoo removal specifically to prepare for new tattoos that better suit their current style, provide space for different designs, or allow repositioning of artwork. If you’re planning a cover-up rather than complete removal, we can work with you and your tattoo artist to fade your existing tattoo to an appropriate level rather than removing it entirely. This fading-for-cover-up approach typically requires fewer laser sessions than complete removal while providing sufficient lightening for talented artists to work over. At Estelaza Clinic, we frequently collaborate with tattoo artists to achieve optimal fading levels for planned cover-ups. We recommend waiting at least 3 months after your final laser session before getting new ink to ensure complete healing and skin recovery.

Both Q-switched and picosecond lasers are effective for tattoo removal, but they differ in pulse duration and mechanism. Q-switched lasers deliver energy pulses measured in nanoseconds (billionths of a second) and have been the gold standard for tattoo removal for many years with proven effectiveness across all ink colors. Picosecond lasers represent newer technology that delivers energy in picoseconds (trillionths of a second), which is 1000 times faster than Q-switched lasers. The ultra-short pulse duration of picosecond lasers creates more effective ink shattering through enhanced photoacoustic effect, potentially requires fewer treatment sessions for complete removal, generates less heat and therefore less risk of skin damage, and may work better on previously treated or stubborn tattoos. At Estelaza Clinic, we offer both technologies and select the optimal system based on your specific tattoo characteristics including ink colors, previous treatments, and skin type. For some tattoos, Q-switched lasers remain the best choice and deliver excellent results. For others, particularly stubborn multi-colored tattoos or those with challenging pigments, picosecond technology may provide advantages. We’ll recommend the most effective approach for your individual situation during consultation.

Proper aftercare is essential for optimal healing, results, and complication prevention following laser tattoo removal. At Estelaza Clinic, we provide detailed post-treatment instructions including keeping the treated area clean and dry, gently washing with mild soap and patting dry, and applying prescribed antibiotic ointment 2-3 times daily for the first week. Keep the area covered with a sterile bandage for the first 24-48 hours, then allow it to breathe while continuing ointment application. Blisters are common and normal—do not pop them, as they protect healing skin underneath. Allow scabs to fall off naturally without picking, scratching, or peeling them away. Avoid sun exposure on the treated area for at least 4 weeks and apply SPF 50+ sunscreen once healing allows. Don’t swim, use hot tubs, saunas, or engage in activities causing excessive sweating for 1-2 weeks after treatment. Wear loose, breathable clothing over treated areas to prevent friction and irritation. Avoid shaving over the treatment area until completely healed. Stay well-hydrated to support your immune system’s ink removal process. Watch for signs of infection including excessive redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever, and contact us immediately if these occur. Most healing occurs within 7-10 days, though complete fading takes 6-8 weeks. Following these guidelines ensures optimal results and minimizes complication risks.