How does laser tattoo removal work?

The laser delivers rapid pulses of light energy that pass through the outer skin and target ink particles beneath the surface. Each pulse shatters ink into tiny fragments that your immune system then flushes away naturally over the following weeks. Different wavelengths target different ink colors, which is why we adjust settings based on your specific tattoo.

Does tattoo removal hurt?

Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. The level of discomfort depends on the tattoo's location, size, and your personal tolerance. We use cooling techniques during treatment to keep you comfortable. Most sessions for small tattoos take under 15 minutes.

Can you remove all tattoo colors?

Black and dark blue ink respond the fastest. Red, orange, and most warm tones are also very treatable. Green and teal ink take more sessions but can be significantly faded. Lighter colors like yellow and white are the most challenging. Your provider will assess your specific ink colors and give you honest expectations at your first session.

How many sessions will I need?

Most tattoos require 6-10 sessions, though some may need more depending on ink density, depth, colors, and your body's natural healing response. Amateur tattoos with less ink often require fewer sessions than professional work. Your provider will give you a personalized estimate at your first session.

How long do I wait between sessions?

Sessions are spaced 8-10 weeks apart to give your body time to flush ink fragments and for the skin to fully heal. Rushing between sessions doesn't speed up results and can increase the risk of side effects. Consistency matters more than frequency.

Can you fade a tattoo for a cover-up?

Yes. Many patients come to us specifically to lighten an existing tattoo before getting new work done. Fading for a cover-up typically requires fewer sessions than full removal, giving your tattoo artist a cleaner canvas to work with.

Do I need to do anything before my first session?

No special preparation is needed. Just make sure the area is clean and free of any lotions or sunscreen. Avoid tanning or sun exposure for at least two weeks before your session. Your provider will assess your tattoo and create a treatment plan at your first visit.

What does recovery look like after a session?

The treated area may be red, swollen, or tender for a few days, similar to a mild sunburn. Blistering can occur and is a normal part of the process. Most patients return to their regular activities immediately. We provide detailed aftercare instructions after every session.

Is there a risk of scarring?

When performed by an experienced provider with proper settings, scarring is uncommon. Following aftercare instructions, especially avoiding sun exposure and not picking at blisters, significantly reduces any risk. Pre-existing scar tissue from the original tattoo may become more visible as ink fades.

Cienega Medical

Book Now

Laser Tattoo Removal Los Angeles

Laser Tattoo Removal

Safe, effective removal for all ink colors and skin tones

★★★★★ 4.7 · 3,250+ reviews

Book Now

Price FAQ

16+ Years

3 Locations

7 Days Open

How Laser Tattoo Removal Works

Assessment: At your first session, we assess your tattoo, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan with a realistic session estimate.

Treatment Session: Laser energy breaks ink particles into tiny fragments that your body can naturally process and eliminate.

Healing Period: Your immune system gradually clears ink fragments over 8-10 weeks between sessions. Most patients resume normal activities right away.

Repeat Sessions: Each session fades the tattoo further. Most tattoos need 6-10 sessions to reach the desired result.

What to Expect

Your Removal Timeline

After 1-2 sessions

Noticeable fading begins as the laser breaks down surface ink particles

After 4-6 sessions

Significant fading with continued lightening between sessions

After 8-10 sessions

Near-complete removal for most tattoos

Results vary based on ink colors, density, depth, and placement. Your provider will set personalized expectations at your first session.

Book Now

What Is Laser Tattoo Removal?

Laser tattoo removal uses concentrated light energy to break down ink particles trapped in the skin. The laser delivers rapid pulses that shatter ink into fragments small enough for your immune system to flush away naturally. Over a series of sessions, the tattoo progressively fades until it reaches your desired result, whether that's complete removal or lightening for a cover-up.

What We Can Remove

Our laser technology targets a broad spectrum of tattoo ink colors and styles.

Black and dark blue ink (responds fastest)

Red, orange, and warm-toned ink

Green and teal ink

Professional and amateur tattoos

Old or faded tattoos

Cosmetic/permanent makeup (eyebrows, lip liner)

Traumatic tattoos (road rash, pencil marks)

Multi-colored designs

Stubborn colors like yellow and white are harder to treat but can often be significantly faded. Your provider will give you a realistic assessment of expected results at your first session.

IDEAL FOR

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Laser tattoo removal works on a wide range of skin tones and ink types. Most healthy adults are candidates.

Unwanted tattoos of any age, size, or color

Tattoo fading for a cover-up design

All skin tones, including darker complexions (Fitzpatrick I-VI)

Healed, non-infected skin in the treatment area

Willingness to commit to multiple sessions spaced 8-10 weeks apart

No active tanning or sunburn in the treatment area

Not recommended for: active skin infections, keloid-prone skin, pregnancy or nursing, photosensitizing medications. Your provider will confirm candidacy at your first session.

Book Now

How Much Does Tattoo Removal Cost?

Choose your tattoo size below. Our unlimited monthly plan is the best value: one low payment per month covers all sessions needed over 24 months.

Tattoo Removal – Extra Small size reference

$69/mo BEST VALUE

Check Availability

$95/mo BEST VALUE

Check Availability

$124/mo BEST VALUE

Check Availability

$160/mo BEST VALUE

Check Availability

Tattoo Removal – Extra Large size reference

$189/mo BEST VALUE

Check Availability

Your selection helps our team prepare for your visit. No payment is required when booking online, and you're never locked in. Your provider will confirm the right option at your appointment.

Licensed medical providers · All skin types welcome · No credit card required to book

Why Choose Cienega for Tattoo Removal

At Cienega Medical, tattoo removal is performed by experienced providers in a clinical setting with medical-grade equipment. At your first session, we assess your tattoo's size, ink colors, depth, and skin type to build a realistic treatment plan. We monitor your progress at every session and adjust settings as your tattoo fades to ensure safe, effective results.

Patient Reviews

★★★★★ 4.7 · 3,250+ reviews

across all locations

Brianna Olsen

West Hollywood

★★★★★

"Cienega was FAST in responding to all my questions, the many times I've needed reassurance and the many times I've needed to reschedule because of my busy schedule so I absolutely recommend them if you like flexibility and ease. I got tattoo removal AND laser hair removal. I recommend their packages they are super affordable if you want to get all of your tattoos removed over a course of time and for a good price. I couldn't find any med spas with better price match than cienega. The West Hollywood location also has free parking which is a plus the staff is AMAZING and sweet they are 100% invested in getting you the results they want! Don't be afraid to ask them ANYTHING!!! I posted some review videos as well on my Tiktok: wildchildbre that go step by step and show before and after"

Verified review →

Rachel H.

West Hollywood

★★★★★

"I went for tattoo removal! My tattoo was no bigger than two dimes put together. However, I had never went through with the process before. I only have one other tattoo that it's very small as well. I looked on Yelp and came across the Cienega Med Spa. I obviously took into account that the results of their work were going to be something permeant on my body. I called over and got an appointment immediately. They had recently updated their prices and had a great deal. For an extra small area it would only cost $50 per session. Prior to their new price list they only had tattoo removal starting at $150 a session. Upon entering there were beautiful chandeliers, comfy seating, and they even got me an espresso while I waited.When I was taken into the consultation room I had SO many questions. So hopefully this helps you too. I wanted to know how bad it hurt. How long it takes. How many sessions I would need. What they do to numb the area. If I could exercise after. And how it would look after the first treatment. Obviously it varies due to how big your tattoo is and what kind of ink was used. (My tattoo was done at a tattoo shop. They take other precautions if yours was done elsewhere or at home. ) Anyway, since my tattoo is so small the specialist told me it would take at least 4-6 sessions to fully remove. There would be numbing cream I had to sit with prior to the laser. And yes, it would hurt worse than getting the actual tattoo. I also have to wait at least five days to tan, exercise, or do anything that can get the area wet. She told me after the first treatment it would just look like a raised bumpy area. I ended up feeling very comfortable with the specialist and decided to go ahead and do the first removal treatment right then and there. She took me into a room where I put on netflix and relaxed while she applied the numbing cream. I sat with the cream for about 10 minutes until she came back in. At this point I started sweating a little bit and getting nervous. How long is it going to take? Does it hurt again? My friends that came with me held my hand, and yes it hurt really bad. BUT! It only took 2 minutes. No exaggeration. I was really happy I went through with it. I only have a few more sessions left and it'll be gone. It's already starting to break down the ink. I knew I couldn't cheap out on something as serious as this!! I highly recommend going here."

Verified review →

Daniel O.

West Hollywood

★★★★★

"Receiving tattoo removal treatment here. Great staff, very friendly and professional. I've had 3 visits so far and have had a great experience with every single one.+1 for Netflix while waiting for the numbing cream to settle in."

Verified review →

Aftercare and Recovery

After treatment, the area may appear red or swollen, similar to a mild sunburn. This typically resolves within a few days. Keep the area clean and dry, apply the recommended ointment, and avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks. Most patients return to normal activities immediately. Blistering can occur and is a normal part of the healing process. Your provider will give you detailed aftercare instructions specific to your treatment.

FAQ

How does laser tattoo removal work?
The laser delivers rapid pulses of light energy that pass through the outer skin and target ink particles beneath the surface. Each pulse shatters ink into tiny fragments that your immune system then flushes away naturally over the following weeks. Different wavelengths target different ink colors, which is why we adjust settings based on your specific tattoo.
Does tattoo removal hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. The level of discomfort depends on the tattoo's location, size, and your personal tolerance. We use cooling techniques during treatment to keep you comfortable. Most sessions for small tattoos take under 15 minutes.
Can you remove all tattoo colors?
Black and dark blue ink respond the fastest. Red, orange, and most warm tones are also very treatable. Green and teal ink take more sessions but can be significantly faded. Lighter colors like yellow and white are the most challenging. Your provider will assess your specific ink colors and give you honest expectations at your first session.
How many sessions will I need?
Most tattoos require 6-10 sessions, though some may need more depending on ink density, depth, colors, and your body's natural healing response. Amateur tattoos with less ink often require fewer sessions than professional work. Your provider will give you a personalized estimate at your first session.
How long do I wait between sessions?
Sessions are spaced 8-10 weeks apart to give your body time to flush ink fragments and for the skin to fully heal. Rushing between sessions doesn't speed up results and can increase the risk of side effects. Consistency matters more than frequency.
Can you fade a tattoo for a cover-up?
Yes. Many patients come to us specifically to lighten an existing tattoo before getting new work done. Fading for a cover-up typically requires fewer sessions than full removal, giving your tattoo artist a cleaner canvas to work with.
How much does tattoo removal cost?
We offer two options: pay per session, or save with our unlimited monthly plan. Our 24-month unlimited plan lets you come as often as needed with one low monthly payment. See our treatment options above for pricing by tattoo size.
Do I need to do anything before my first session?
No special preparation is needed. Just make sure the area is clean and free of any lotions or sunscreen. Avoid tanning or sun exposure for at least two weeks before your session. Your provider will assess your tattoo and create a treatment plan at your first visit.
What does recovery look like after a session?
The treated area may be red, swollen, or tender for a few days, similar to a mild sunburn. Blistering can occur and is a normal part of the process. Most patients return to their regular activities immediately. We provide detailed aftercare instructions after every session.
Is there a risk of scarring?
When performed by an experienced provider with proper settings, scarring is uncommon. Following aftercare instructions, especially avoiding sun exposure and not picking at blisters, significantly reduces any risk. Pre-existing scar tissue from the original tattoo may become more visible as ink fades.