How many sessions will it take to remove a red ink tattoo on the neck? (Photos)

Hi there. This "kiss" tattoo seems to be very popular. In our clinic we have removed at least a half dozen of these. Our experience with red ink  is that it comes out fairly easily. If it is pure red ink, a Q-switched laser that has a 532nm setting will work fine. You can expect 4-6 treatments. Sometimes, the red pigment is not pure and tends to darken over several treatments. The most important thing is to choose a provider carefully. Ask them to show you before and after pictures of successfully removed red tattoos. 

Red is a harder color to remove, but it can be removed with laser tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal takes a series of treatments, so it's difficult to give you a timeframe. Cost will vary. I recommend getting a formal consultation with a tattoo removal expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

I think that the 532 wavelength is needed for this color. Also, a laser that has both nano and picosecond pulses is best. The Piqo4 has high power with large spot sizes to give the safest and most effective treatment of the lasers available on the market. I imagine it will take 6-8 treatments at about 200 per treatment. Neck tattoos are easier to remove than ones on the arms or legs. The closer to the heart the better.

Thank you for your question. Red ink is one of hardest colors to remove with a laser. In my office I use the Picosure laser. The Picosure laser has a short pulse duration that exceeds photothermal action and results in an intense photomechanical impact. This adds up to faster results and fewer treatments when compared to other tattoo removal methods. It works best on darker inks such as black and blue. The number of sessions required to remove a tattoo can range from 6-10 sessions. The amount of sessions depends on the size, color and placement of the tattoo. The further the tattoo is from the heart the more time it will take to remove. I hope this information helps.

Pico lasers are the most advanced technology. I utilize the PiQo4 laser which has 4 Pico wavelengths including the 532 wavelength ideal for red pigment. Certain colors respond best to certain wavelengths. The amount of treatments can vary based on several factors such as the location of your tattoo, your skin tone, how sharp the ink is, and how quickly your body eliminates the ink. Even with advanced lasers and multiple wavelengths complete removal is not always possible. I believe that tattoos are removed faster and safer with Pico lasers and there is less risk of scarring. I think it is important not only to seek the best technology but an experienced laser tattoo removal provider. Price can vary based on location, technology and size of your tattoo. Best wishes. 

Red ink is one of the harder colors to remove, but it can be removed with laser tattoo removal. It is difficult to give you a time frame as to how long or how many sessions it would take for the tattoo to be completely removed.  The cost will vary depending on the office you go to and the prices they offer.  I would recommend scheduling a consultation with a board certified dermatologist, someone who has experience removing tattoos. Best, Dr. Green

It is definitely possible to remove your red ink tattoo. How long it takes depends on several factors including: amateur vs professionally done, the type of ink used, the depth the ink was placed, the age of the tattoo, and your skin type. The darker your skin type, the safer the laser settings have to be set, so it will take more sessions. Typically, starting at lower settings and working up to a higher settings as the tattoo fades. It is best to wait at least a month in between treatments as this will allow your body to remove the particles of shattered ink that the laser produces in the removal process. Red ink is a bit harder to remove than just black ink, and we use a 532 nm wavelength laser that is specific for red ink. Other wavelengths wont work as well. As for whether you should use a nanosecond or picosecond laser (the quickness the pulse is delivered), some say there is conflicting research on which one is better. There are pros and cons for each one. There have been reports of tissue damage using picosecond lasers as the energy is delivered much, much quicker. Either way, definitely do your homework and go to someone who is experienced with tattoo removal so they can help you through the process, as it will take at least 6 treatments for yours to fade.

Good luck!





Dr Ward





Miami, FL

Thanks for your question and posting a picture.It is possible to remove a red & pink tattoo.  Based on our experience, we definitely recommend a picosecond laser with 532 nm wavelength.  For PicoSure, this wavelength is an upgrade over the original models and was added specifically for treating some red inks.  The PicoSure Laser is new technology and will generally remove tattoos in half the treatments (or less!) required by older lasers, without the risk of burning and with much, much lower risk of scarring or hypopigmentation.  With your darker skin tone, you should definitely stay away from nanosecond or q-switch lasers.  Patience is the key to any laser tattoo removal plan.  We tell every PicoSure Laser tattoo removal patient to expect at least 6 treatments and don't be surprised if it is 10-12 or longer with thick tribal tattoos.  We see some patients twice a year and their tattoos seem to clear up to 6 months.  After using the PicoSure for 2 years, we have found it is best to wait 2-6 months between treatments.  There is a limit to how small the laser can break up the ink.  It's up to you and your body to take the ink away.  We encourage our patients to drink plenty of water, sweat it out and eat a healthy diet between treatments.We recommend finding an experienced physician in your area.  Treatment prices vary by market.  You are trying to reverse permanent ink.  Good Luck and have patience!