Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt? What It Really Feels Like

One of the first questions we hear at Bourne Beauty is, "Does laser tattoo removal hurt?"

The honest answer is yes, there is some discomfort, but most people find it much more manageable than they expected. Modern laser technology and effective cooling systems mean that treatment is quicker and more comfortable than many imagine.

If you've been putting off removing an unwanted tattoo because you're worried about the pain, here's what you can realistically expect.

What Does Laser Tattoo Removal Feel Like?

Clients describe the sensation in different ways, but the most common comparisons are:

• A rubber band snapping against the skin

• Tiny hot pinpricks

• Small bursts of heat

• A quick stinging sensation

The feeling only lasts while the laser is firing. Once the treatment stops, the discomfort usually settles quickly.

Most appointments last between a few seconds and a few minutes, depending on the size of the tattoo.

Is Tattoo Removal More Painful Than Getting a Tattoo?

Many clients ask this before booking.

While everyone's pain tolerance is different, many people say that laser tattoo removal feels more intense than getting the tattoo, but the treatment is much shorter.

For example:

• A tattoo may take several hours to complete.

• A laser treatment on the same tattoo may only take a few minutes.

Although the sensation is sharper, it is over much more quickly.

How We Help Make Treatment More Comfortable

At Bourne Beauty, we use cryo cooling during treatment.

Cryo cooling directs a stream of very cold air onto the skin before, during and after the laser pulses. This helps to:

• Reduce the feeling of heat

• Improve comfort during treatment

• Soothe the skin immediately afterwards

Many clients tell us that the cooling makes a noticeable difference to the overall experience.