Tattoo & PMU Removal
Laser Tattoo Removal
A staged fading process measured in sessions, priced by tattoo size.
From R 350. Prices are a guide and are confirmed at consultation. Area, complexity and the number of sessions can change the final charge.
At a glance
- Appointment
- 10–45 minutes depending on size
- Downtime
- A few days
- Suggested course
- 6–12+ sessions, 6–8 weeks apart
- Consultation
- Required first
What it is
A staged process that uses laser energy to break down tattoo ink so the body can gradually clear it. It is measured in sessions spread across many months — this is not a single appointment, and anyone telling you otherwise is not being straight with you.
How it works
The laser targets the ink pigment. Your body then clears the fragmented ink over the following weeks, which is why sessions are spaced six to eight weeks apart. Each session fades the tattoo further rather than removing it outright.
Good fit for
- Fading a tattoo before a cover-up
- Full removal, provided you can commit to a long course
- Anyone who wants an honest assessment of what their specific tattoo will take
Suitability is assessed individually at consultation. Some treatments are not appropriate for everyone.
Your treatment journey
- Consultation with a look at the tattoo itself — ink colours, age, depth and placement all change the estimate.
- A patch test where appropriate.
- A realistic estimate of session count and total cost before you commit.
- Sessions spaced six to eight weeks apart.
- Review as fading progresses, with the plan adjusted as needed.
Results and what to expect
Fading is gradual and highly variable. Black ink generally responds best; greens, blues and some reds are considerably more stubborn. Amateur tattoos often clear faster than professional work. Complete removal cannot be promised for every tattoo, and some leave a shadow or a change in skin texture. Your practitioner will give you a candid assessment of your particular tattoo at consultation.
Safety and common effects
Most people notice some of the following. They are temporary and expected rather than a problem:
- Immediate whitening of the area, which settles within an hour
- Redness, swelling and tenderness for a few days
- Blistering or scabbing in some cases
- Temporary lightening or darkening of the surrounding skin
Before you book. Suitability is assessed individually at consultation. Some treatments are not appropriate for everyone. Tell your practitioner about any medication, skin condition, allergy or recent treatment at consultation rather than on the day.
Information on this site is general and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis, advice or treatment. Speak to a healthcare professional about any health concern.
Aftercare
Keep the area clean and covered as instructed. Do not pick any blistering. No swimming, saunas or sun on the area, and strict sun protection between sessions.
Read the full preparation and aftercare guide for tattoo & permanent make-up removal.
Prices
Prices are a guide and are confirmed at consultation. Area, complexity and the number of sessions can change the final charge. Last updated 24 March 2026.
Laser tattoo removal (per session)
| Treatment | Price |
|---|---|
| 1–3 cm | R 350 |
| 4–10 cm | R 650 |
| 11–20 cm | R 700 |
| 21–30 cm | R 1 500 |
| 31–41 cm | R 2 000 |
| 41–50 cm | R 3 000 |
| 50–61 cm | R 4 500 |
| 10-session course | 30% discount |
Common questions
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the ink colours, the age and depth of the tattoo, its placement and your own healing. Estimates typically run from six to twelve or more sessions. You will get a candid estimate at consultation rather than an optimistic one.
Will it be completely gone?
Not always. Some tattoos clear fully, others leave a faint shadow or a change in skin texture. Certain ink colours are very resistant. We will tell you honestly what we expect for your tattoo.
Does it hurt?
Most people find it more uncomfortable than getting the tattoo, though each session is short. Cooling is used and comfort options are discussed at consultation.
Why the long gap between sessions?
Your body needs time to clear the fragmented ink. Treating too soon does not speed things up and increases the risk to your skin.
Is there a discount for a course?
Yes — a ten-session course carries a discount. See the price page for the size bands and the course terms.
Can I get a cover-up instead?
Often a few fading sessions make a cover-up far easier. Talk to your practitioner about which route makes more sense for your design.
Will it scar?
Correctly performed and correctly cared for, scarring is uncommon — but it is a real risk, particularly if blistering is picked. Follow the aftercare closely.
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Ready to talk about laser tattoo removal?
Send us a message and we will help you work out whether this is the right treatment for your goals.