New to Tattoo Removal? Here’s What You Need to Know!

So, you’ve decided to part ways with a tattoo. Maybe it’s a design that no longer suits your lifestyle, something done on impulse, or perhaps you’re planning a cover-up. Whatever the reason, you’re not alone — laser tattoo removal is now one of the UK’s fastest-growing skin treatments.

But if you’ve never had it done before, it can all seem a bit overwhelming. That’s where I come in. I’m Matt, the owner of Ultra Laser, a mobile tattoo removal service based in the Midlands. With over 8 years of hands-on experience and the latest ND YAG laser technology, I bring clinic-level treatments directly to your home — with no compromise on quality, safety or comfort.
Let’s break down everything you need to know if you’re new to laser tattoo removal.

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Actually Work?

Laser tattoo removal is based on one simple concept: breaking ink particles into tiny fragments that your body can naturally flush away.
When a laser is fired onto a tattoo, it emits a focused beam of light that passes through the skin and targets the ink underneath. Different wavelengths of light are used depending on the colour of the ink — because not all pigments respond the same way.

Skin Patch Test – Essential Before Laser Tattoo Removal

Before starting any laser tattoo removal treatment, I carry out a mandatory skin patch test at least 48 hours — ideally one full week — before your first session. This is an important safety step to check how your skin reacts to the ND YAG laser and ensure that treatment is suitable for your individual skin type.

As part of the consultation, I assess your Fitzpatrick skin type — a scale ranging from Type I (very fair, burns easily) to Type VI (deeply pigmented, rarely burns). This helps determine how your skin may respond to laser energy and reduces the risk of pigmentation changes or irritation.

What is a Skin Patch Test?

A patch test involves applying a small amount of laser energy to a discreet section of your tattoo. This allows me to observe your skin’s response to both the 1064nm and 532nm wavelengths used in treatment. It also gives you a feel for what the treatment will be like, so you know exactly what to expect.

Why It’s Important:

• Ensures your skin tolerates the laser safely
• Helps select the right laser settings for your Fitzpatrick skin type
• Minimises risk of adverse reactions such as blistering or hyperpigmentation
• Required by insurance and industry best practices
• Gives you confidence before beginning your removal journey

Most clients experience only minor redness or warmth following a patch test — if anything at all — but it’s essential to allow at least 48 hours for any delayed skin responses to appear. For Fitzpatrick Types IV–VI (olive to darker skin tones), I may recommend waiting up to a full week to ensure the safest approach, as darker skin can be more reactive to laser light.

Patch testing is fast, straightforward, and always included with your initial mobile consultation. I provide clear aftercare advice and check in to ensure you’re comfortable and informed ahead of your first full session.

Key Laser Wavelengths:

1064nm – Best for black, dark blue, and dark green inks. This is the most commonly used and deeply penetrating wavelength.
532nm – Used for brighter inks like red, orange, yellow, and some pinks. Shallower in depth but excellent for targeting lighter colours.

Don’t worry, the laser I use can produce both of these wavelengths, so I literally have you covered!

Your tattoo is made up of thousands of ink particles sitting within your skin. The laser breaks these up into smaller pieces, and your immune system does the rest — gradually flushing them out over time. It’s not an instant process, but with patience and consistency, you’ll begin to see fading after just a few sessions.

ND YAG vs Pico Technology – What’s the Difference?

You may have heard of Pico lasers being promoted online, often as the ‘latest and greatest’ in tattoo removal. Pico (short for picosecond) lasers deliver energy extremely fast, and they do offer good results for certain ink types.
But here’s the thing — they’re not always better.
I use a high-spec Q-switched ND YAG laser, the gold standard for tattoo removal that’s been trusted in clinics for decades. ND YAG systems are versatile, effective, and safer on a wider range of skin tones. They’re especially good for dark inks and deep-set tattoos, which make up the majority of tattoos in the UK.

Why I Choose ND YAG (and You Should Too):

Proven results on black and coloured inks
Lower risk of skin damage and hyperpigmentation
Safe for a range of skin types and tones
Highly effective on amateur and professional tattoos
A more cost-effective and predictable option for most clients
While Pico systems sound impressive on paper, they can be aggressive and less suited for darker skin types. In many cases, a well-operated ND YAG laser offers equal or better results — especially when paired with experience and proper aftercare.

What Can You Expect During Treatment?

If you’re nervous, don’t worry — that’s totally normal. Most clients feel a quick, hot flicking sensation during treatment. It’s not painless, but it’s tolerable, and I use a Cryo skin cooling system to take the edge off.

Each session takes between 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the tattoo. I’ll space your appointments about 6 to 8 weeks apart, to give your skin time to heal and allow the ink particles to be absorbed.

What Affects Tattoo Removal Success?

Ink colour and type (black fades quickest)
Age of tattoo (older = easier)
Skin tone
Tattoo depth (professional or amateur)
Your immune response
You may need anywhere from 4 to 12+ sessions depending on your goals. Some tattoos fade completely, while others lighten enough for a successful cover-up.

Safety, Skin & Realistic Expectations

Laser tattoo removal is incredibly safe when performed by a trained and experienced technician — which is exactly what you get with me. I’m fully insured, work to medical-grade hygiene standards, and I’ll always be upfront about what’s achievable.
One important note: no one can guarantee 100% removal. Some inks are stubborn, especially pastels and older pigments. Scarring is rare with ND YAG lasers, especially when correct spacing and aftercare are followed.

Quick Tips for Best Tattoo Removal Results:

Avoid sun exposure before and after sessions
Stay hydrated and eat well — it supports healing
Follow aftercare advice exactly
Be patient; good removal takes time
Let your skin rest between sessions

Why Ultra Laser Tattoo Removal is Different.

Unlike most clinics, I bring the treatment to you. Yes! Mobile Tattoo Removal Services in the comfort of your own home. There’s no need to take time off work, battle traffic, or sit in waiting rooms. You get dedicated one-to-one care, at home, at a time that works for you. Your search for Mobile Tattoo Removal Near Me is over!
Whether you’re in Hinckley, Coventry, Tamworth, Sutton Coldfield, Nuneaton, or surrounding areas, I offer fully mobile treatments with the same professional standard you’d expect in a private clinic — without the hassle.

Benefits of Using My Mobile Tattoo Removal Service:

Flexible appointments, including evenings and weekends
No travel, no waiting, no stress
More private and discreet than a high street clinic
Personalised service — you’re not just another booking
Advanced ND YAG technology and skin cooling
Honest, no-pressure advice

Ready to Take the First Step in Tattoo Removal?

Whether you’re just starting to explore your Mobile Tattoo Removal Near Me options or you’re ready to begin your tattoo removal journey, I’m here to help. With Ultra Laser, you get honest guidance, professional results, and treatment at your convenience — all from someone who genuinely cares about doing the job right. If you have any more questions, please feel free to visit the Laser FAQ page or Contact Me directly.

👉 Get in touch with Matt at Ultra Laser to book your consultation or ask any questions. I’ll guide you through every step, from your first session to your final fade.