Laser tattoo removal works by sending quick, powerful pulses of light into the skin to break up the tattoo ink. Once the ink particles are shattered into tiny fragments, your body does the rest — clearing them out naturally through your immune system over time. It’s a gradual process, but it works.

Once the Discovery Pico shatters the ink particles, your body recognises the broken-down ink as waste. Your macrophages (a type of immune cell) absorb and transport them via the lymphatic system. Most of it is flushed out through your liver and kidneys. This natural clearance happens over several weeks, which is why you’ll continue to see the tattoo fading in the weeks after treatment and is the reason why it is important to space your sessions at least 8 weeks apart.

Even with the Discovery Pico’s advanced tech, tattoo removal is a staged process. That’s because:

• Ink is placed at different depths in the dermis

• Each session removes the most accessible ink; deeper ink becomes reachable later

• Your immune system needs time to process and clear fragmented pigment

• Healing time between sessions ensures skin recovery and prevents complications

Most clients need between 6–12 sessions, depending on tattoo age, colour, location, ink density, and individual immune response.

Spacing treatments 6–8 weeks apart allows for:

• Ink clearance via the lymphatic system

• Skin healing and collagen remodelling

• Reduced risk of scarring or pigment changes

Good prep makes a big difference. Here’s what to do:

• Avoid sun exposure or tanning the area for at least 2 weeks

• Skip fake tan and don’t use active skincare products (like retinol or vitamin C) on the area for a few days

• Keep the skin clean and dry – no lotions or oils before your session

• Stay hydrated and eat beforehand – treatment’s quick, but you’ll feel better if your body’s fuelled

We’ll give you clear prep instructions before your appointment.

After your session, the area might feel like mild sunburn — that’s normal. Here’s how to care for it:

• Apply a cold pack if it’s sore or swollen

• Keep it clean and dry for a few days

• Use any healing ointment we recommend

• No picking or scratching if it blisters or scabs

• Avoid swimming, sweating, or soaking the area for 48 hours

• Stay out of the sun, and use SPF 50+ once the skin has healed

Good aftercare helps prevent irritation and speeds up recovery.

Your body plays a big part in how quickly the ink fades. Here’s how you can help it along:

• Drink lots of water – helps your lymphatic system do its job

• Exercise regularly – boosts circulation and immune function

• Eat well – aim for healthy, whole foods and cut back on alcohol and sugar

• Don’t smoke – it slows healing and circulation

• Get enough rest – your immune system works best when you’re well rested

Think of it as working with your body, not just the laser.

Some people like to take supplements like vitamin C, zinc, or milk thistle to support their immune and liver function. While they won’t magically erase your tattoo overnight, they may help your body process the ink more efficiently. Always check with your GP if you’re unsure.

We recommend waiting 6 to 8 weeks between treatments. This gives your body time to heal and flush out the ink. It’s tempting to want faster results, but spacing things out actually gives you a better outcome and protects your skin.