Is the process painful?

The Nd-yag laser emits very short flashes of light called pulses.  The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light is similar to the snap of a thin rubber band or specks of hot bacon grease on the skin.  The large majority of all patients do not require anesthesia.

When the treatment is finished, the tattoo will look white all over. This will last 5-10 minutes. Then some pinpoint bleeding will usually occur. The first few days are usually the worst as far as appearance. It may ooze for a couple of days until it hardens and forms scabs. Sometimes blisters may appear on certain areas where there are particular colors. And in some cases, like for large areas to be covered, some swelling may occur. A bandage for the first 3-4 days would be a good idea to protect the area from germs and bacteria. When the area first heals, you won't notice much difference, but after a few months the tattoo pigments will start to break up and fade away. The area will fade for up to a year with each session.