How soon can I start laser tattoo removal on this new tattoo? (Photo)

Question

I absolutely hate this tattoo. It’s too bold, wasn’t done right and way too big. I just want this removed asap but I just got it. I don’t want to wait months to remove it..

Kally Papantoniou, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hi! Wanting a tattoo removed quickly, especially when it didn't turn out as you hoped, is very common. Unfortunately, laser tattoo removal can’t be done on a fresh tattoo while the skin is still healing and the ink is settling in. Treating it too soon increases the risk of scarring, texture issues, or pigment issues.

Most providers will want to wait at least 8–12 weeks before the first session, but the exact timing depends on how quickly your skin heals. You’ll need an in-person evaluation to confirm when it’s ready.

Starting early won’t speed up removal. It only raises the chance of complications. Letting your skin fully heal before getting started on the removal will give you the best possible results.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I completely understand your frustration—wanting a tattoo removed quickly, especially when it didn’t turn out as you hoped, is very common. The challenge with very new tattoos is that the ink is still settling in the skin. Immediately after getting a tattoo, the skin is still healing and the ink particles are more deeply embedded, which makes laser removal less effective and increases the risk of complications like scarring or pigment changes.

Most practitioners recommend waiting at least 4–6 weeks after getting the tattoo before starting laser sessions. This allows the skin to fully heal and ensures the laser can target the ink more effectively. Trying to remove it sooner often doesn’t work well and can actually make the process longer in the long run.

The good news is that once the tattoo is ready for removal, modern lasers can gradually fade even bold or large tattoos. It usually takes multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart, depending on the size, colors, and location of the tattoo.

So while I know waiting is frustrating, giving your skin a few weeks to settle will ultimately give you a safer and more effective removal process.

How soon can I start laser tattoo removal on this new tattoo? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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