Does tattoo removal hurt?

“Does laser tattoo removal hurt?” We embrace this question! The honest blunt answer is- Yes. However, it can be more tolerable than most people expect. Many clients describe the sensation as a quick snapping feeling, similar to a rubber band snapping tightly against the skin, combined with a bit of heat. The good news though is that treatments are typically very fast, often lasting just a few minutes depending on the size of the tattoo. Remember how long it took to get that tattoo put on? We’re talking just seconds-to-minutes for a removal session.

At Chariot Tattoo & Laser Removal, we take comfort seriously. We use advanced cooling technology like the Zimmer Cryo, which blows -30 degree celcius air onto the skin before and throughout the entire treatment. This significantly reduces the sensation of heat and helps calm and soothe the skin in real time. It’s a game-changer for comfort and one of the reasons our clients are often surprised at how tolerable the process actually is.

For those who want an extra level of comfort, we also offer an optional medical-grade topical numbing cream here at our Boise, Idaho location. When applied prior to treatment, it helps dull the sensation even further, taking the edge off for more sensitive areas or larger pieces. Between the Cryo cooling, numbing options, and priding ourselves on our stellar bedside manner to cheer you on through your session, we’re able to tailor the experience to your comfort level.

At the end of the day, while laser tattoo removal isn’t completely sensation-free, it’s manageable—and often times easier than anticipated. More importantly, it’s very temporary. Each session is quick, and the discomfort fades almost immediately afterward. If removing a tattoo is your goal, the short-lived discomfort is well worth the long-term result of clear, ink-free skin or a fresh new canvas!