Tattoos have become increasingly popular in Singapore over recent years, with many people choosing unique designs to express their individuality.
However, personal preferences evolve over time, which has led to a growing demand for tattoo removal treatments. According to surveys, about 78% of people regret one or more of their tattoos – that’s more than 3 out of 4 people!
Fortunately, advances in tattoo removal technologies have made it possible to effectively remove unwanted tattoos.
Whether you’re looking to completely erase a tattoo or lighten it for a cover-up, this comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need about tattoo removal in Singapore.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
Laser tattoo removal is the most common and effective method used in Singapore. The procedure involves hovering an applicator over the tattooed area, which emits pulses of high-intensity laser energy.
These pulses penetrate through the epidermis (topmost layer of skin) and are absorbed by the tattoo pigments.
When the laser energy is absorbed, it causes the tattoo pigments to shatter into smaller particles. These particles are then metabolized or excreted from your body via the lymphatic system over several weeks, resulting in the tattoo gradually fading and becoming lighter.
Types of Lasers Used for Tattoo Removal in Singapore
Quality-Switch (QS) Nanosecond Lasers
The QS laser is traditionally considered the gold standard in tattoo removal due to its outstanding clinical results and safety profile. There are three main types of QS lasers:
| Laser Type | Wavelength | Effective For | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|
| QS Ruby | 694nm | Black, blue, green, purple | Very dark professional/amateur tattoos, traumatic tattoos |
| QS Nd:YAG | 1064nm & 532nm | 1064nm: black, blue<br>532nm: red, orange, black, blue, green | Dark tattoos, medical tattoos, well-suited for dark-skinned individuals |
| QS Alexandrite | 755nm | Black, blue, green, traumatic tattoos | Individuals with skin types III and IV (darker white and light brown skin) |
QS Picosecond Lasers (Pico Lasers)
Pico lasers have gained popularity due to their improved efficacy in removing tattoos in fewer sessions compared to QS nanosecond lasers. The key difference is that pico lasers emit pulses in picoseconds rather than nanoseconds, which:
- Provides higher efficacy in breaking down tattoo ink
- Results in lower risk of adverse side effects
- Is more effective for clearing multi-colored tattoos, especially dye-resistant colors like yellow, green, purple, and red
Various types of pico lasers are available on the market, including:
- PicoPlus: A second-generation picosecond laser with the highest peak power (1.8GW) in 450 picosecond ultra-short pulse duration
- PicoWay: Features ultra-short pulse durations that can fracture ink into smaller fragments
- PicoSure: Effectively targets all colors including difficult ones like blue, yellow, and green
FracTat™ or FracPICO – Combined Technology
This innovative approach combines pico lasers with fractional laser technology. When tattoo pigments are fragmented by laser beams, gases are produced that can shield underlying pigments from subsequent laser treatments, making them less effective.
The FracTat method pre-treats the skin with fractional ablative laser technique, which involves drilling micro-sized holes into the skin over the tattoo. These holes act as pressure relief ducts through which gases can escape after each pass of the picosecond laser.
Benefits of FracTat include:
- Safer tattoo removal with minimized chances of blistering and scarring
- Fewer overall sessions needed for clearance
- Improved skin texture and reduction of existing scars
Factors Affecting Tattoo Removal
Several factors determine how easily a tattoo can be removed and how many sessions will be required:
- Tattoo age: Older tattoos are generally easier to remove as some fading has already occurred naturally
- Ink colors: Black and blue colors are easiest to remove; green, yellow, and fluorescent colors are most difficult
- Tattoo location: Tattoos closer to the heart (with better blood circulation) tend to fade faster
- Skin type: The Fitzpatrick skin type affects how the skin responds to laser treatment
- Tattoo layering: Multiple tattoos layered over each other require more treatments
- Amount of ink used: Professional tattoos typically use more ink than amateur ones and require more sessions
- Presence of scars: Pre-existing scarring can affect the removal process
What to Expect During a Tattoo Removal Session
Tattoo removal sessions are generally straightforward and relatively quick with minimal downtime. Here’s what to expect:
Pre-Treatment Consultation
Before your first session, you’ll have a consultation where the doctor or aesthetician will:
- Examine your tattoo
- Assess factors like size, color, ink type, and depth
- Use the Kirby-Desai Scale to estimate the number of sessions required
- Create a personalized treatment plan
During the Treatment
- Your skin will be cleaned and a topical anesthetic applied to numb the area
- You’ll be given protective eye goggles to shield your eyes from the laser light
- The doctor will test your skin’s response to the laser to determine the appropriate energy level
- The actual removal procedure may last from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the tattoo size
- Many patients describe the sensation as similar to being snapped with a rubber band
Post-Treatment
- Cooling will be applied immediately to soothe the skin
- You’ll receive instructions on aftercare
- Most people can return to daily activities without much disruption
Pain Level and Discomfort
Tattoo removal with lasers causes discomfort but is generally not considered severely painful. The sensation is often described as similar to being snapped by a rubber band. To minimize discomfort, clinics typically use:
- Numbing cream applied before the procedure
- Cooling devices or ice packs during treatment
- For larger tattoos or sensitive areas, nerve blocks may be used
Side Effects and Risks
While tattoo removal is generally safe, there are some common side effects to be aware of:
- Redness and swelling: Normal and expected to subside within 1-10 days
- Tenderness: The treated area may be sore from swelling
- Blistering: More common with methods other than FracTat
- Bruising: Temporary and should fade within days
- Scabbing: Part of the normal healing process
- Hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation: Changes in skin pigmentation that are usually temporary
More serious but rare complications may include:
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Scarring
- Permanent skin discoloration
Studies have shown that there is approximately a 5% incidence rate of complications following laser tattoo removal.
Will Tattoo Removal Leave a Scar?
Yes, some tattoo removal treatments can leave scars. But with modern technologies and proper care of your skin after a removal procedure is done, tattoo removal generally does not leave scars if performed properly by a professional. Scarring that patients may observe after removal is often the result of:
- The original tattooing process, not the removal
- Pre-existing tendency toward keloid formation (overgrowth of scar tissue)
- Tattoo by-products trapped under the skin from incomplete removal
- Gas expansion from laser energy reacting with tattoo pigments
- Inexperienced practitioners or improper aftercare
The FracTat method significantly reduces the risk of scarring by providing pressure relief ducts for gases.
For surgical tattoo removals (where the tattooed area is cut out and skin stitched back together), scarring is more common and will usually take several months to fade.
How Many Sessions Are Required?
Most people undergo about 5-10 sessions for their tattoo to be effectively removed, though some may require more than 10 sessions for complete fading. The exact number depends on:
- Fitzpatrick skin type
- Ink colors
- Tattoo layering
- Location on the body
- Amount of ink used
- Presence of scars
Sessions are typically spaced at least 6 weeks apart to allow:
- The body’s lymphatic system to process and eliminate the broken-down pigments
- Complete healing of the skin between treatments
The entire duration of tattoo removal can span from a few months to a year. Studies have shown that using the FracTat method, up to 80-90% of a tattoo can be removed in just 4-6 sessions, compared to traditional QS laser treatment where more than 70% of patients achieve success only after 15 sessions.
Effectiveness of Tattoo Removal
Laser tattoo removal is considered one of the most effective and non-invasive ways to remove a tattoo. Complete removal is possible, but depends on several factors:
- Color of the tattoo: Green, blue, purple, and orange dyes are more resistant to laser removal. Black or blue colored tattoos are easier to remove as they absorb light better.
- Depth of color pigments: Professional tattoos often place ink deeper in the skin than amateur tattoos.
The results of laser tattoo removal are permanent, as the color pigments broken down by the laser are metabolized and excreted by the body’s lymphatic system.
Cost of Tattoo Removal in Singapore
The cost of laser tattoo removal in Singapore typically ranges from $800-$1,300 per session. Factors affecting the cost include:
- Size of the tattoo
- Colors present in the tattoo
- Your skin type
- Location of the clinic
- Doctor’s experience and expertise
Some clinics may offer more affordable options, with prices starting as low as $50-$100 per session for small tattoos.
Based on tattoo size, approximate costs per session are:
- Small tattoos (up to 5 cm): SGD 100 to SGD 250
- Medium tattoos (5–10 cm): SGD 250 to SGD 600
- Large tattoos (over 10 cm): SGD 600 to SGD 1,200
Additional costs may include:
- Consultation fees: SGD 50 to SGD 150
- Aftercare products: SGD 50 to SGD 150
Medisave Claims for Tattoo Removal
Laser tattoo removal in Singapore can be claimable through Medisave in certain circumstances. The maximum amount claimable depends on the classification of your tattoo removal procedure:
| Description | Table | Maximum Amount Claimable |
|---|---|---|
| Skin, tattoo (1%-2%), laser excision | 2B | $750 |
| Skin, tattoo (less than 1%), laser excision | 1C | $450 |
| Skin, tattoo (multiple/more than 2%), laser excision | 3A | $1,250 |
| Skin, tattoo, repeated laser excision | 1A | $250 |
Aftercare Tips for Tattoo Removal
Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure optimal healing and prevent complications:
- Keep the treated area clean and dry
- Gently clean the area with soap and water, patting dry
- Apply prescribed antibiotic ointment and keep the area bandaged for the first three days
- Avoid swimming, baths, pools, and hot tubs
- Don’t pick at scabs or blisters
- Apply cold compresses or soothing ointment for itching or pain
- Avoid taking aspirin
- Protect the area from sun exposure and apply sunblock with SPF 25 or higher for at least three months
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours after the procedure
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Alternatives to Laser Tattoo Removal
Tattoo Removal Creams
There are tattoo removal creams on the market that claim to be able to remove tattoos. These creams typically contain trichloroacetic acid (TCA) which works by peeling away the epidermis (top layer of skin).
However, tattoos reach the dermis (second layer of skin), and tattoo pigments are not effectively targeted by TCA. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not found clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of tattoo removal creams and has not approved any for use.
Additionally, TCA can cause complications if used incorrectly, including:
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea
- Chemical burns
Surgical Removal
For surgical tattoo removals, the tattooed area is cut out and the surrounding skin stitched back together. This method usually leaves a scar, which takes several months to fade. It’s more invasive than laser removal but may be appropriate for very small tattoos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does laser tattoo removal stop hair growth?
No, laser tattoo removal does not stop hair growth. The wavelengths used in tattoo removal target tattoo pigments specifically and are different from those used in hair removal lasers. The hair follicles are found in a deeper layer of the dermis than tattoo pigments, so they’re generally not affected by tattoo removal lasers.
How long do I have to wait to remove a new tattoo?
If you regret a recent tattoo, you should wait at least 6 weeks after getting it before attempting removal. This allows your tattoo to fully heal, which reduces the occurrence of side effects like scarring and blistering. Tattoos that aren’t fully healed will also take longer to remove.
Are tattoo lightening and removal the same thing?
No. Tattoo lightening aims to fade a tattoo to prepare it for a cover-up with new artwork, while tattoo removal seeks to completely eliminate the tattoo. Some clients prefer lightening as it provides an opportunity to refresh or update designs rather than erasing them entirely.
Will certain colors be harder to remove?
Yes. Black and dark blue pigments are easiest to remove as they absorb all laser wavelengths. Colors like green, yellow, orange, and fluorescent colors are more challenging and may require specialized lasers or more sessions to remove effectively.
Is it normal for my tattoo to look darker after the first treatment?
Yes, sometimes tattoos can initially appear darker after the first treatment as the ink particles are broken up and oxidize. This usually subsides as your body processes the ink fragments over the following weeks.
Can I get a new tattoo in the same area after removal?
Yes, once the skin has completely healed after tattoo removal (typically several months), you can get a new tattoo in the same area. However, it’s important to ensure the skin is fully healed and healthy first.
Is it safe to remove tattoos during pregnancy?
Most practitioners recommend avoiding tattoo removal during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. While there’s no evidence suggesting laser removal harms the baby, it’s generally advised to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How should I prepare for my first tattoo removal session?
Before your first session:
- Avoid sun exposure for 2-3 weeks prior
- Discontinue any products containing salicylic acid, retinols, or benzoyl peroxide
- 24 hours before, remove any lotions, oils, or makeup from the tattoo area
- Clean the area thoroughly and shave if necessary
Conclusion
Tattoo removal has come a long way with advanced laser technologies making it possible to effectively fade or completely remove unwanted tattoos. While the process requires patience and multiple sessions, modern methods like pico lasers and FracTat offer improved results with fewer treatments and minimal risk of scarring.
If you’re considering tattoo removal in Singapore, it’s crucial to consult with experienced professionals who can assess your specific tattoo and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. Remember that factors such as tattoo color, size, location, and your skin type all influence the removal process.
Even with the availability of efficient tattoo removal procedures, it’s always wise to carefully consider any new tattoos. Take your time to decide and be certain that the tattoo is what you want, lest you experience regrets and end up spending more to have it removed later.
For the best results, follow all pre-treatment and aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner, and maintain realistic expectations about the timeline and outcome of your tattoo removal journey.