Unwanted tattoo? You’re not alone. At SOMA Skin & Laser, our board-certified dermatologists use advanced laser technology to safely remove or lighten tattoos with minimal downtime. Whether you want complete removal or just enough fading for a cover-up, we create a customized plan based on your skin type, tattoo characteristics, and goals.
Serving patients across New Jersey from our Millburn and Paramus locations.
Laser Tattoo Removal Before & After Pictures
Disclaimer: Results may vary patient to patient. There is no guarantee that any specific result can be achieved. Results may not be permanent.
Why Choose SOMA for Laser Tattoo Removal
- Board-certified dermatologists performing and supervising all treatments
- Advanced Q-switched Nd:YAG and COâ‚‚ laser technology designed specifically for tattoo removal
- Customized treatment plans based on ink color, depth, size, and skin type
- Comfort-first approach — cooling devices and optional numbing to reduce discomfort
- Safe for all skin types, including darker skin tones
- Transparent pricing, including pay-as-you-go and unlimited packages
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
Laser tattoo removal works by delivering high-intensity light into the skin, which shatters tattoo ink into tiny particles. Your body’s immune system gradually clears these particles over several weeks. Because different ink colors absorb different wavelengths of light, using multiple laser types allows us to target:
- Black ink (quickest to remove)
- Red, orange, yellow
- Blue and green pigments
- Professional, amateur, and traumatic tattoos
Most tattoos require a series of sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart for optimal fading or removal.
Our Laser Technology
At SOMA Skin & Laser, we use only medical-grade, industry-leading devices:
Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser
- Gold standard for tattoo removal
- Excellent for black and dark inks
- Safe on nearly all skin tones
- High peak power for effective ink fragmentation
DEKA COâ‚‚ Laser
- Used for resistant ink and texture concerns
- Helps treat scarring or raised areas if present
- Provides advanced precision for complex tattoos
This multi-platform approach allows us to achieve better results across all tattoo types and colors.
What to Expect During Your Tattoo Removal
1. Consultation
Your dermatologist evaluates:
- Tattoo size, age, color, and depth
- Skin type
- Any previous treatments
- Whether full removal or partial fading is your goal
You’ll receive a projected timeline, session estimate, and pricing options.
2. Treatment Sessions
- Sessions last 5–20 minutes, depending on tattoo size
- Cool air and optional topical numbing help ease discomfort
- You may hear snapping sounds and feel a quick, hot pulse similar to a rubber band snap
3. Aftercare
Common temporary effects:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pinpoint bleeding
- Light scabbing
Aftercare instructions typically include:
- Avoiding sun exposure
- Keeping the area clean and dry
- Applying ointment as directed
- Avoiding picking or scrubbing
Most patients return to normal activities immediately.
4. Number of Sessions
Many tattoos require 8–15 sessions, but this varies based on:
- Ink type and density
- Tattoo age
- Skin type
- Body location (extremities may require more sessions)
- Whether the tattoo was professionally applied
We will give you a realistic estimate during your consultation.
Pricing & Packages
We offer straightforward, transparent pricing options:
Individual Treatments
- Starting at $125 per session, depending on tattoo size
Unlimited Treatment Packages
Flat-rate packages for patients who prefer predictable, all-inclusive pricing. (May not be available for all tattoos)
Discounted Treatment Plans
Save 20% when purchasing a recommended treatment series.
Contact us for a personalized quote based on your tattoo.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Tattoo Removal
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as similar to the snap of a rubber band against the skin. We offer various pain management options, including topical numbing creams and cool air devices, to make the treatment as comfortable as possible. For a small tattoo, injection with local numbing is also an option.
What are side effects and recovery after tattoo removal?
Mild redness, swelling, or scabbing may occur in the treated area following a session. These effects are temporary and typically subside within a few days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications.
How do laser tattoo treatments remove tattoo ink?
The high energy of the q-switched laser beam shatters ink particles. Once the particles are broken up, the tattoo ink can be removed by the body’s immune system and cleared by the liver. Sometimes we also use a CO2 laser, such as the DEKA SmartXide, which vaporizes pigment and breaks up scarring.
How many laser tattoo removal treatments will I need?
Predicting the number of tattoo removal sessions required is not a perfect science. Most tattoos will take 8 to 15 treatments. Where the tattoo is located on the body, the color of the ink, the color of your skin, the presence of scarring, and the presence of layering all impact on how many tattoo removal sessions are required. Some tattoos may take longer, and not all tattoos can be fully removed.
How often can I get laser tattoo treatments?
Laser tattoo removal treatments are typically spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart.
How much does it cost to remove a a tattoo with laser?
The cost of removing a tattoo with laser depends on the size of the tattoo and the number of treatment sessions required. The smallest tattoos start at $125 per session. Large tattoos can be several hundred dollars per session. Flat rate pricing for unlimited tattoo removal is often available, depending on your tattoo type. During your consultation with a dermatologist, a price will be provided for your tattoo removal.
Are there package discounts for tattoo removal?
Flat rate unlimited treatment packages are often available. There is also a discount of 20% when you purchase a laser tattoo removal package for the recommended number of treatments.
Do I have to get a tattoo removal package, or can I pay as I go?
You do not need to purchase a tattoo removal package. You can purchase one treatment at a time.
Does the entire tattoo need to be removed?
You can remove just the parts of the tattoo that you want, such as part of a design or a name.
I just want to lighten my tattoo, is that possible?
It is possible to just lighten your tattoo. This requires fewer treatments than complete tattoo removal. This is usually done when you plan to do a cover up.
Can all tattoos be fully removed?
Not all tattoos can be fully removed. Certain colors and certain inks are resistant to laser.
Can I remove cosmetic tattoos, such as eyebrows?
You can remove cosmetic eyebrow tattoos with laser tattoo removal. However, certain cosmetic inks and certain white inks will darken when lasered. A test spot should be performed first.
I have scarring in my tattoo, can it still be removed?
It is more difficult to remove a tattoo with scarring around it. The scarring traps the ink. To treat a scarred tattoo more treatments are required, and typically we combine Revlite q-switched laser with DEKA Co2 laser.
Can I remove a tattoo on my inner lip?
Yes. We have successfully treated tattoos inside the mouth.
Disclaimer: Results may vary patient to patient. There is no guarantee that any specific result can be achieved. Results may not be permanent.
Will laser tattoo removal leave a mark or a scar?
Usually laser tattoo removal will not scar, but sometimes scarring can occur. Discoloration can also occur, especially in darker skin types. Dark discoloration can usually be treated with lightening creams, such as hydroquinone. Light discoloration can sometimes be treated with the Excimer laser. Following your wound care instructions and aftercare is important for optimal healing.
Do I need to do anything before my laser tattoo removal treatment?
Do not tan or get a lot of sun on your tattoo prior to treatment. If the tattoo is on an area with hair, shave the area a day or two before.
What do I do after the laser tattoo removal treatment?
After the treatment, we will apply ointment and a dressing. An ice pack can be applied to reduce swelling and discomfort. If you treated an arm or a leg, you can elevate it to reduce swelling. Do not get the area wet until it has healed. Do not swim in an ocean or pool, or use a sauna or steam room. Avoid sun exposure and do not tan. Apply ointment as directed. Do not pick at the area, or remove scabs. After 24 hours, you can resume your usual activities, except for swimming. For swimming, you must be fully healed.
Can I go to the beach or tan after laser tattoo removal treatment?
Do not get tan or a lot of sun exposure while having tattoo removal treatments. It can increase your risk of scarring or discoloration.
What is the R20 method of laser tattoo removal?
The R20 method is simply performing multiple treatments in one day, each treatment separated by 20 minutes. R20 simply stands for “repeat 20 minutes”. Some studies have shown this approach to clear tattoos more quickly. If we perform an R20 treatment for you, each “repeat” counts as a separate treatment session.
Why Dermatologist-Led Tattoo Removal Matters
Laser tattoo removal is a medical procedure. At SOMA Skin & Laser, you benefit from:
- Proper skin typing and laser selection
- Physician-level safety
- Management of pigmentary issues, including PIH or hypopigmentation
- Treatment of resistant ink and scarring with specialized devices
This leads to safer procedures and better outcomes, especially for complex tattoos.
Schedule Your Tattoo Removal Consultation
Ready to begin your tattoo removal journey?
Call us at 973-763-7546 or book online.
Choose your nearest location:
- Millburn, NJ
- Paramus, NJ