What seemed like a great idea a few years back may not be so hot today. If you are looking for a fresh start without a tattoo, laser tattoo removal may be the solution for you.
Whether it be for a new job, a relationship change, or a new take on your image, it's never too late to get rid of an old tattoo. The providers at Old Town Med Spa, led by board-certified physicians Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi, utilize the latest technology to help patients refresh their appearance and restore their confidence.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Tattoos lighten naturally over time because the body continually works to remove the foreign particles of ink deposited beneath the skin. The reason ink does not naturally fade completely is that the particles are too large for the body to break down. Laser tattoo removal does this for you. Each pulse of laser energy interacts with ink particles, shattering them into smaller fragments and making them easier to remove. Each laser tattoo removal session targets another layer of large pigment particles until all have been broken apart.
Chicago Tattoo Removal Before & Afters
Ideal Candidates for Tattoo Removal
The best candidates for laser tattoo removal are those who:
- Are healthy. You need a strong immune system for laser tattoo removal to work really well!
- Are not pregnant or nursing.
- Do not have an injury or infection at the treatment site.
- Do not have a history of abnormal scarring.
- Have light to medium skin. The darker your skin, the higher the risk of unwanted pigment changes.
- Can avoid tanning before treatment sessions.
- Do not take medication that increases photosensitivity, such as Retin-A or antibiotics (at the time of treatment).
- Do not have an autoimmune condition or long-term health issue.
How Many Sessions Will I Need to Remove My Tattoo?
Multiple sessions are needed to remove tattoo ink because the laser must penetrate multiple layers of ink particles in the skin. Tattoos that are bold, dark, or large may require more treatments than those that are smaller, already faded, or that include less dense pigmentation.Â
On average, we see a significant change within 5-10 treatment sessions. During your initial consultation, we'll be happy to discuss the factors that help us determine your treatment plan and estimate the number of treatments needed.
Will My Tattoo be Completely Removed?
Using proven laser technology, we expect the full resolution of tattoo ink over time. The question isn't "if," but "when."
There may be ways that you can help your tattoo removal process along. Since your immune system targets the fragmented ink, you can eat well and take an immune-boosting multivitamin throughout your treatment program.
Circulation also helps move the targeted ink out of the body, so it can be beneficial to exercise regularly. Even a brisk 30-minute walk each day can help.
Staying hydrated supports the flow of lymph through the body, too, which can maximize your laser tattoo removal treatments.
Tattoo Removal Recovery
There isn't any downtime after getting laser tattoo removal, but there are some things you should and shouldn't do. These are outlined in your aftercare instructions.
Generally, it is necessary to practice specific "wound care" to ensure proper healing after this laser treatment. You'll also need to protect the area from sun exposure by applying sunscreen or wearing protective clothing.
If any questions arise after your laser treatment, please don't hesitate to contact our office for assistance.
Is Tattoo Removal Painful?
Laser tattoo removal is moderately uncomfortable, but most people tolerate it well. The process is not painless, but neither is getting a tattoo.
During each session, you can expect to feel a warming sensation in the skin and a snapping sensation with each pulse of laser light the device delivers. After the appointment, you may feel like you have a pretty good sunburn.
Why Choose Old Town Med Spa for Tattoo Removal in Chicago?
Old Town Med Spa is led by the MD Brothers — Drs. Nael and Shazel Gharbi — two of Chicago's most respected cosmetic surgeons. Board-certified in both Internal and Aesthetic Medicine and members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, they bring over a decade of experience in advanced aesthetic care.
Since 2015, the MD Brothers have helped thousands of patients in the Chicago area achieve beautiful, natural results through cutting-edge technologies and personalized treatment plans. Their expertise in laser and light-based procedures ensures safe, precise, and effective tattoo removal.
FAQs
Yes, laser tattoo removal can target specific areas of a tattoo if you only want to fade or remove a particular section. The laser's precision allows the provider to direct energy at defined regions without affecting the surrounding ink or skin.
This option is popular for those who want to adjust a design, clear space for a cover-up, or remove an unwanted name or symbol. Keep in mind that multiple sessions may still be necessary depending on the tattoo's color, size, and depth.
Yes. Dark colors like black and blue typically respond fastest to laser treatment because they absorb light energy more effectively. In contrast, lighter shades — such as yellow, green, and turquoise — can take longer to break down since they reflect more of the laser light.
Modern multi-wavelength laser systems help address a broader color range by using specific frequencies to target stubborn pigments. The number of sessions needed will depend on the ink's composition, how deeply it's embedded in the skin, and your body's natural healing and pigment-clearing response.
It's important to wait until your tattoo has completely healed before beginning laser removal. This is usually about three months after the application. Starting too soon can increase the risk of scarring, infection, or pigment irregularities because the skin is still repairing itself.
Once healed, a qualified provider will evaluate the tattoo's age, color, and skin condition to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan. Waiting until your skin fully recovers ensures better comfort during treatment and helps the laser energy target ink more efficiently while minimizing unwanted side effects.
When performed by an experienced provider, laser tattoo removal rarely causes scarring. The technology is designed to target ink particles beneath the skin's surface without damaging surrounding tissue.
Most temporary side effects include redness, swelling, or mild blistering that fade within days. However, improper aftercare — such as picking at scabs or exposing treated skin to the sun — can increase the chance of pigment changes or texture irregularities. Following your provider's post-treatment instructions closely and attending all recommended sessions helps promote smooth healing and reduce the risk of lasting marks.
Preparation is key for safe, effective results. Essential pre-appointment practices include:
- Avoiding tanning or self-tanning products for at least two weeks prior, as excess pigment in the skin can interfere with laser targeting.
- Refraining from using photosensitizing medications or skincare products such as retinoids.
- Ensuring the treatment area is clean and free of lotion, makeup, or deodorant.
- Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy immune system to support faster ink clearance.
Your provider will consider your medical history, evaluate your tattoo, and give detailed pre-treatment instructions to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Schedule a Tattoo Removal Consultation in Chicago
Do you have questions about the tattoo removal process? Are you ready to get started? Contact Old Town Med Spa to schedule a tattoo removal consultation. Call us at our Lincoln Park, Bucktown, or River North location or book an appointment online.
