Why do some tattoos take more sessions to clear?

Jim Trenholm • July 30, 2018

Advanced technology yields faster, better results. However, other factors at play can still impact how many sessions you may need.

Using Syneron Candela’s advanced PicoWay technology , Unthink Inc. can help you achieve complete tattoo clearance in under a year. The average tattoo takes an average of six tattoo removal sessions with our technology, spaced about eight weeks apart. That being said, a number of external factors can increase the number of sessions is necessary. Some of these factors can be controlled by you, the client, and others are largely situational. These include:

1) The Tattoo’s Age

When a tattoo is less than three months old, Unthink Inc. is unable to book your Laser Tattoo Removal sessions. No matter how instantaneous your regret is, the ink needs this initial time to settle into the skin before it can safely be removed. The laser works by targeting ink within the deep dermal layer of skin and if the ink has not yet reached this layer, sessions may be painful and ineffective. Working on a fresh tattoo will create a longer process and require longer recovery in between sessions as blistering and scarring are more common. The area will then need more time to heal in between sessions. To avoid this long process (and unnecessary pain and money) wait for the tattoo to fully set first . Our expert technician and owner, Jim, can help determine the right time to begin your treatment.

Learn About our Laser Tattoo Removal process!

2) The Tattoo’s Size

No matter the size, most tattoos require at least six PicoWay sessions to achieve full clearance. So why does this impact your tattoo removal timeline? In order for large tattoos (6” by 6” or bigger) to clear efficiently, our expert technician will break up the tattoo into sections to help your body’s lymphatic system better processes the unwanted ink. For example, a full chest tattoo may be split into two sections (right and left).

After 30 days of the left section healing from the initial treatment, the right section will have its first treatment. This doesn’t have to necessarily increase the timeline of your tattoo removal journey however, it will require more commitment by you (the client) to visit Unthink Inc. and stay on track with this schedule; instead of coming in every eight weeks, you will be coming in every four. To get a sense of how long your large tattoo removal will take, book a free consultation with our expert technician Jim.

[cs_section bg_image=”https://unthink.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/original-angela-benito-3184-min.jpg” bg_color=”hsl(0, 0%, 100%)” parallax=”true” separator_top_type=”none” separator_top_height=”50px” separator_top_angle_point=”50″ separator_bottom_type=”none” separator_bottom_height=”50px” separator_bottom_angle_point=”50″ style=”margin: 0px;padding: 45px 0px;”][cs_row inner_container=”true” marginless_columns=”false” style=”margin: 0px auto;padding: 25px 0px;”][cs_column fade=”false” fade_animation=”in” fade_animation_offset=”45px” fade_duration=”750″ type=”1/1″ style=”padding: 0px;”][x_prompt type=”left” title=”Laser Tattoo Removal is just a click away!” message=”Need to take your ink a different direction? Ask us about our tattoo altering and fading services.” button_text=”Book Now!” button_icon=”check-square-o” circle=”true” href=”https://unthink.ca/contact/” href_title=”” target=””][/cs_column][/cs_row][/cs_section][cs_section bg_color=”hsl(0, 0%, 100%)” parallax=”false” separator_top_type=”none” separator_top_height=”50px” separator_top_angle_point=”50″ separator_bottom_type=”none” separator_bottom_height=”50px” separator_bottom_angle_point=”50″ style=”margin: 0px;padding: 1px 0px 0px;”]

3) The Tattoo’s Location

A common misconception about laser tattoo removal is how the ink is removed. Many who don’t know the process assume the laser absorbs the ink but this simply isn’t true. The laser’s job is to break up the ink particles into tiny pieces so the body is able to remove the unwanted ink through the lymphatic system. Since the lymph nodes are directly tied to the heart, strong blood circulation is important. The closer a tattoo is to the heart, the faster the removal will be due to the stronger blood circulation. For tattoos on phalanges, the process may take longer.

4) Successful Aftercare

Since ink is absorbed through the body’s natural processes, keeping up a healthy lifestyle is imperative to successful aftercare. Unhealthy habits such as smoking, dehydration and slow blood circulation from a lack of physical activity may slow down the aftercare process thus extending the time in between your tattoo removal sessions. For tips on how to keep your tattoo removal journey on track, click here.

If you have any questions or concerns about how long your tattoo will take to remove, book your no-obligation consultation with Jim today.

Send Unthink Inc. an Inquiry

< Older Post Newer Post >

A man is getting a tattoo removed from his arm.

Tattoo Removal for All Skin Types: Why PicoWay is a Game-Changer

July 3, 2025

Learn how PicoWay Laser effectively removes tattoos on all skin types, even addressing challenging colors effortlessly.

A woman is getting her eyebrows painted in a salon.

Eyebrow Tattoos: When to Consider Laser Removal

June 18, 2025

Eyebrow tattoos have become an increasingly popular beauty trend, offering a semi-permanent solution for those seeking perfectly shaped and defined brows. However, not everyone ends up satisfied with their results. Whether it's due to a change in aesthetic preferences, an allergic reaction, or less-than-desirable outcomes, you might find yourself considering removal. At Unthink Inc. , we specialize in helping clients achieve the look they want through effective removal methods. Here’s a comprehensive guide on when to consider eyebrow tattoo removal with a combination of saline injections and laser treatment. Understanding Eyebrow Tattoos and Their Risks Before diving into when to consider removal, it's crucial to understand what eyebrow tattoos entail. Typically, these tattoos are a form of cosmetic tattooing, where pigment is implanted into the skin to create the appearance of fuller, darker eyebrows. While many are thrilled with the results, there are potential risks involved. The process can cause skin damage, infections, or allergic reactions, which in turn may lead you to reconsider your decision. Symptoms Indicating Removal Might Be Necessary 1. Faded or Uneven Pigment: Over time, the pigment used in eyebrow tattoos can fade or turn into an undesirable color, especially with exposure to sunlight. If your eyebrow tattoos have started to look uneven or have changed color, it might be an indication that removal is your best option for a fresh start. 2. Allergic Reactions: Unfortunately, not everyone’s skin reacts well to tattoo pigments. Allergic reactions can result in redness, itching, or swelling. If you experience these symptoms, removal could alleviate discomfort and help restore your skin to its natural state. 3. Discomfort or Scarring: The tattooing process can sometimes damage your skin, causing discomfort or scarring. If your eyebrow tattoos have left visible scars or if you have ongoing discomfort, removal can potentially improve the appearance of your skin, reducing both visible and physical distress. 4. Change in Aesthetic Preferences: Your style and preferences can evolve over time. What seemed like a perfect choice five years ago might no longer align with your current taste or beauty goals. If your eyebrow tattoos don't fit your desired look anymore, removal offers a safe and effective way to reclaim your natural brows. The Dual Approach: Saline Injections and Laser Tattoo Removal For those considering removal, Unthink Inc. offers a unique approach combining saline injections and the PicoWay laser treatment. This dual method is designed to deliver optimal results tailored to individual client needs. 1. Saline Injections for Lighter Pigments: In some cases, saline injections may be recommended to lift lighter pigments before proceeding with laser treatment. This helps to create a more uniform appearance and prepares the brows for effective laser removal. Our specialists, will work closely with you to coordinate the saline process, ensuring a smoother transition to laser treatments. 2. PicoWay Laser for Final Touches: Once the lighter pigments are addressed, the PicoWay laser is employed to remove the remaining darker elements of the unwanted brows. Known for its precision and safety, this state-of-the-art technology targets the tattoo pigment with minimal impact on the surrounding skin. Preparing for Your Removal Session Before undergoing treatment, a consultation with a qualified specialist at Unthink Inc. is vital. We’ll assess your tattoos and discuss your goals and expectations. Here are some tips to prepare for your session: - Avoid sun exposure at least two weeks before your appointment to reduce skin sensitivity. - Refrain from using topical creams or medications that can make your skin more sensitive. - Communicate any skin conditions or concerns with your technician. Recovery and Aftercare Post-treatment care is essential for optimal results. After your session, you may experience some redness or swelling around the treated area. To ensure a smooth recovery, follow these aftercare tips: - Avoid sun exposure and apply sunscreen as advised. - Keep the treated area clean and moisturized. - Refrain from picking at any scabs or flaky skin. Removing Eyebrow Tattoos: A Step Toward Confidence Deciding to remove your eyebrow tattoos is a personal choice often motivated by the desire for self-confidence and comfort. At Unthink Inc., we're committed to supporting our clients through the removal process, providing professional care and guidance every step of the way. Reconnect with Your Natural Look Eyebrow tattoos don't have to be a permanent part of your aesthetic if they're no longer serving your needs. Unthink Inc. offers advanced technology and expert care to help you reconnect with your natural beauty. Whether you're dealing with faded colors, allergic reactions, or simply a change in style, we're here to assist you in making the best decision for your skin and self-image. Take the Next Step with Unthink Inc. Ready to remove those unwanted eyebrow tattoos and start fresh? Contact us at Unthink Inc. to book a consultation and learn how our treatments can help you achieve your desired results. Call us at (833) 868-4465 or email info@unthinkinc.ca. We look forward to helping you on your journey to healthier, happier skin. Visit our website at www.unthinkinc.ca for more information about our services and expertise. Your confidence is just a consultation away!