Getting rid of those unwanted tattoos

It’s possible to remove a tattoo that you don’t want over a series of sessions using a laser. But before going ahead, do your research and find a reputable practitioner. How it works

The energy from the laser breaks down the tattoo ink into tiny fragments, which are eventually absorbed into the bloodstream and safely passed out of the body. What happens during a session

Shave the area before the appointment. You’ll wear goggles and a local anaesthetic cream will be applied. The practitioner will trigger a laser and the session should take about 10-30 minutes. Aloe vera gel will be applied afterwards, and you may need to wear a bandage.

Afterwards the skin may be red with a raised rash for a short while. It may also bleed slightly for about a week before scabbing over.

Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun, so avoid exposure and use sunscreen.

You should also avoid soap, perfumed products, strenuous activities, swimming and saunas until the scab has dropped off. Possible risks

Some colours won’t fade completely – yellow, green and purple ink require more sessions than black, blue and red.

There’s a small chance your skin may become temporarily darker or paler than the surrounding area.

In a small minority of cases (three in 100 patients) you’ll be left with a permanent scar. What to do if you have problems

Go back to the practitioner who treated you, or arrange a visit to your GP or A&E. The cost

You’ll be charged €170 a session to remove a small tattoo, rising to about €900 for a large one.