What does laser tattoo removal feel like?

Everyone wants to know what laser tattoo removal feels like. The problem with asking what laser tattoo removal feels like is that someone could honestly say “it depends.” It is really hard to describe what laser tattoo removal feels like. Different areas of the body respond differently to the treatment. People have different tolerances for pain. Different colors even feel differently when treated with the laser.

The large majority of patients say that laser tattoo removal feels about the same as getting a tattoo in the first place. However there are some who would say that laser tattoo removal hurts much worse, and still others who would say laser tattoo removal does not feel as bad as getting a tattoo. Some say it feels like snapping a rubber band on your wrist repeatedly. Some say it feels like bacon grease spattering on your skin. Still others say it feels like a bunch of pin pricks, or many little shocks.

Basically the sensation experienced during laser tattoo removal varies widely from person to person.   The general consensus is that laser tattoo removal is not comfortable, however it is tolerable.  One the plus side laser tattoo removal is a very quick process, generally 15 minutes or less. Larger tattoos do tend to take longer, however.

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