Insights from the medical team at Cambridge Medical Group

Introduction

Tattoos, while deeply personal, may lose their relevance over time. The decision to remove one may be influenced by lifestyle changes, professional considerations, or evolving aesthetic preferences. At Cambridge Medical Group, tattoo removal is approached with clinical precision — guided by your skin type, tattoo characteristics, and the latest in medically supervised technology.

1. Tattoo Removal Is a Gradual, Medically-Guided Process

Tattoo removal is rarely completed in a single session. The process usually involves multiple treatments spaced 6–8 weeks apart to allow for adequate healing and gradual pigment clearance.

Key factors that influence treatment duration:

• Ink colour and composition
• Depth and density of pigmentation
• Age of the tattoo and whether it’s a cover-up
• Skin type and individual healing response

Each session contributes incrementally to breaking down ink particles, with outcomes varying by individual.

2. Technology Matters — But So Does Personalisation

Tattoo ink varies widely in its chemical makeup and depth, which affects how well it responds to treatment. Today’s advanced medical lasers offer more versatility across different pigment types and skin tones.

At Cambridge Medical Group, laser options may include:

• Picosecond laser systems – use ultra-short pulse durations to target stubborn ink colours (such as red, yellow, and green) with lower heat diffusion.
• Q-switched laser platforms – typically applied to treat dark pigments like black and blue using photoacoustic energy.
• Fractional laser technologies – sometimes used alongside pigment-targeting lasers to support resurfacing in areas with previous scarring or textural irregularities.

The specific device and settings are determined during consultation, based on your tattoo and skin profile.

3. A Typical Treatment Session: What to Expect

Tattoo removal sessions at Cambridge Medical Group are conducted under medical supervision and tailored to the individual.

General treatment flow includes:

1. Clinical assessment of ink colour, skin tone, and tattoo layering
2. Topical numbing cream for comfort
3. Laser application using energy parameters selected for safety and efficacy
4. Cooling to manage any immediate post-treatment effects
5. Wound care instructions to protect skin barrier and prevent irritation

Temporary redness, swelling, or pinpoint bleeding may occur post-procedure and typically resolve within a few days.

4. Sun Protection Is Key to Safer Recovery

Sun exposure before or after treatment can interfere with pigment clearance and increase the risk of skin sensitivity or darkening (PIH), especially in darker skin types.

Recommended precautions:

• Avoid tanning or sunbeds for 2–4 weeks before and after each session
• Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily
• Use physical sun protection like clothing and shade when outdoors

If the treatment area is sunburned or already pigmented, the session may be rescheduled for safety.

5. Every Tattoo and Skin Type Requires a Personalised Approach

Not all tattoos respond the same way to laser treatments. Factors such as tattoo layering, ink type, skin healing response, and scar risk all affect the choice of treatment.

During consultation, the practitioner will assess:

• Your skin’s sensitivity and Fitzpatrick type
• Tattoo age, colour range, and depth
• Estimated number of sessions
• Potential for ghosting, partial fading, or pigmentation changes

Managing expectations is important: while fading is often achievable, complete removal may not always be possible, especially for dense or multi-layered tattoos.

📌 Disclaimer

This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment suitability, technology selection, and clinical outcomes vary based on individual skin types, tattoo characteristics, and healing responses. Please consult a licensed medical practitioner at Cambridge Medical Group for a personalised assessment.