FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Laser Tattoo Removal and Skincare Treatments

Where do I begin? How do I know laser treatment is right for me?

Consultations are a great way to learn about laser treatment, and if it is right for you. We offer 2 options:

(1) Video consultations are a time and travel saving option for information gathering.

(2) In-person consultation. During the in-person consultation, our trained technician will listen to your skin concerns, explore treatment options, and design a treatment plan just for you. While the video meeting is convenient, there are advantages to scheduling an in-person consultation, as we can examine your skin directly, and move forward with the first step in the process, a skin patch test, if desired.

Schedule your virtual or in-person consultation here.

What is a skin patch test?

This simple and quick test consists of approximately 3 pulses of the laser and 2 days wait time to see your skin’s reaction. The test is a safety requirement; it also creates an assurance that the process is a good fit for you and your skin. The test has a $50 fee which is applied towards your first treatment.

What services are offered at Chakx Tattoo Removal & More?

Today, Chakx Tattoo Removal & More offers these services:

1. Tattoo removal
Tattoo removal treatments are effective and nearly pain-free with the use of the pico-second technology, Candela’s PicoWay laser, coupled with Zimmer Cryo6, a cryo super cooling unit to achieve 75 to 90% reduction of color. Many clients see 99% removal. This modern technology is considered safest for all skin tones, giving results after just a few treatments.

2. Benign Pigmented Lesion (Dark Spot) Removal

This treatment targets melanin-based pigmentation, including:

Sunspots
Age spots
Lentigines
Café-au-lait macules
Melasma
Other epidermal and dermal pigment conditions

These treatments are coming soon to Chakx, with the use of Candela’s Resolve Handpiece:

1. Acne Scar Improvement

Treatment of atrophic (indented) acne scars by rebuilding dermal support. Clinical studies show 94% of treated areas have improved. This skin treatment is safe for all skin tones due to low thermal injury.

Acne Scar Treatment reduces the appearance of acne scars with specialized treatments designed to improve skin color, texture and tone. Atrophic Scar Blending is treatment of scars showing as sunken, indented skin. They sit below the surrounding skin surface and often look pitted, concave, or crater-like. Most commonly, these scars are caused by severe cystic acne, chickenpox, cuts, burns, or surgical wounds, and inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

2. Wrinkle Reduction & Fine Line Softening

Our wrinkle reduction and fine line softening treatments revitalize skin. Advanced wrinkle reduction treatments focus on smoothing wrinkles to give a fresh and more youthful appearance. These treatments are noninvasive, needle-free, and involve minimal downtime. They stimulate new collagen and elastin production, to smooth early wrinkles. The procedure works beneath the epidermis, so the surface remains intact.

3. Benign Pigmented Lesion Treatment (Dark Spots)
Pigment (color) correction treatment targets benign pigmented lesions like dark spots, freckles, sun/age spots, café-au-lait patches and melasma.

4. Overall Skin Rejuvenation (Texture, Tone, Brightness)
Our Enhanced Skin Texture & Tone treatment uses advanced technology to refine pores, improve elasticity, and even-out the texture of complexion. Your skin will rejuvenate and glow with this specialized treatment. These treatments address dullness, enlarged pores, uneven texture, provide a general “refresh” of the skin. These are a natural extension of the laser's collagen remodeling mechanism.

How many tattoo removal sessions will I need?

Most tattoos require 4 to 8(+/-) sessions for significant fading or complete removal.

Most clients see 75 to 90% reduction of color. Many single tone tattoos achieve 99% removal.

Some tattoos are removed in a few sessions, while others are more stubborn. The number of treatments are affected these factors:

tattoo size
ink colors used
age of the tattoo
age of the person
ink depth and density
skin type
location on the body
whether the tattoo was professionally done

Some colors are more persistent than others and different locations on the body are slower to heal or clear. Not all tattoos can completely disappear. The factors listed above can cause a drastically different removal time for one tattoo to another, or one part of the body from another.

EXAMPLE: a person with two tattoos one on each lower leg. The ink was placed at roughly the same time. There can be significant differences in clearance time and number of laser treatments needed to remove the tattoos.

Clearing the shattered ink is a gradual process. because your body needs time to flush away the ink particles between treatments. Once your body has processed the shattered ink particles (about 4 - 6weeks), and the area is healed, your individual treatment plan will be reassessed. The laser settings are reviewed in conjunction with previous photos to adjust the treatment plan to achieve your best outcome.

Remember, there are no guarantees for how any person’s body will react to the laser, or how well it will clear the ink particles.

How will my skin react to the laser tattoo removal treatment?

Everyone’s skin is different and will react slightly differently. The PicoWay laser sends powerful pulses of energy into the upper levels of the skin to shatter the ink or pigment. To help us determine if this treatment will be right for you, along with questions, forms and visual review of the treatment area, all new clients are required to have a skin-test (3 to 5 pulses on the skin then a 2-day wait) before sessions begin. It may seem overcautious, but just like you, we want successful results and happy clients.

How does laser tattoo removal work?

Laser tattoo removal uses targeted pulses of light to break tattoo ink into tiny particles that the body can naturally eliminate over time. Chakx invested in picosecond laser technology which uses photoacoustic energy (light energy converting to sound) rather than photothermal (light energy converting to heat). The powerful, but ultra-short pulses shatters ink particles into fine dust-like fragments, while significantly reducing heat damage to surrounding skin. The fine particles are more readily cleared by the lymphatic system. Ink placed at differing layers and density are treated over the course of multiple treatments, causing the tattoo to progressively fade. The best way to understand how your tattoo will respond is to schedule an in-person consultation. We evaluate the ink’s condition, placement, and skin type to refine your expectations. Conditions permitting, a test pulse on your tattoo may be performed.

What is PicoWay® and why does Chakx use this technology?

PicoWay® is an advanced picosecond laser system used for tattoo removal. It delivers extremely short bursts of energy measured in picoseconds (one trillionth of a second). These pulses shatter tattoo ink particles while minimizing heat damage to surrounding skin.

Compared with older laser systems, picosecond technology offers several advantages:
Faster laser pulses
More efficient ink fragmentation
Improved results on stubborn colors
Reduced heat-related skin damage

At Chakx, we use advanced picosecond laser technology because it provides one of the most effective and safest tattoo removal experiences available today.

Does laser tattoo removal hurt?

Most clients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping on skin or the feel of a “pop of bacon grease.” The discomfort is brief and generally very tolerable. Many people say it feels similar to getting the tattoo itself. Every person has a different reaction. Different parts of the body are more or less sensitive to the “snap”. To make treatment more comfortable, our Zimmer Cryo-6 cooling unit allows each client to control the location and amount of the super chilled air blowing on the skin. Once the skin is numb, there is a significant reduction in the laser effect.

Can laser tattoo removal fade a tattoo for a cover up?

Yes. Many people choose laser treatments to lighten an existing tattoo before getting a revision or cover-up. When planning the next chapter of your tattoo, allow enough time for removal and healing. Both are key to success. Fortunately, fading a tattoo often requires fewer sessions than complete removal and gives tattoo artists more flexibility when designing a new tattoo. During your consultation, we can discuss whether partial fading is the best option for your goals.

How should I prepare before a laser tattoo removal treatment?

Before your laser tattoo removal session, please DO:

Stay out of the sun for at least 2 weeks before treatment. (Tanned skin increases risk of blistering and pigmentation changes.)
Shave the area 24 hours before your appointment if needed.
Hydrate well the day before and day of treatment.
Eat a normal meal before your session to avoid lightheadedness.
Tell your provider about any new medications, especially antibiotics, Accutane, or photosensitizing drugs.
Wear loose clothing over the area to avoid friction afterward.
Expect multiple sessions — tattoo removal is a process.
Take photos to track progress. Chakx also uses secure photo documentation.

Before your laser tattoo removal session, please DON’T:

Tan or use self-tanner for 2–4 weeks before treatment.
Take ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen 24 hours before (they increase bruising). Tylenol is typically fine if needed.
Drink alcohol the night before or day of treatment.
Lotions, oils, makeup, or deodorant on the treatment area.
Pick or irritate the tattoo before your session.
Come in sick. Your immune system needs to be strong for healing.

During your consultation at Chakx, we review preparation guidelines to ensure the safest treatment.

What is the healing process like after a tattoo removal session?

After treatment, the area may look similar to a mild sunburn. Common temporary reactions include: redness, swelling, tenderness, and possible small blisters or scabs. These symptoms typically resolve within a few days. Here are the best ways you can support healing. Our team also provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.

After a laser tattoo removal treatment, please DO:

Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor or healing ointment for the first 3 days.
Keep the area clean and dry.
Use a cold compress for swelling (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off).
Expect frosting, redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, or blistering — all are normal.
Protect the area from the sun for the entire removal process. (SPF 50 once healed; no direct
sun exposure for 2 weeks).
Allow blisters to heal naturally — NO Picking or popping the blisters. Like with a sunburn the body sends fluid to increase hydration and also to begin flushing damage from the body.
Lightly bandage the area for 2 days post treatment. After 2 days use bandages if the rub of clothing is unavoidable.
Wait 6 to 8 weeks between sessions for best results. If the area is still actively healing at the next scheduled appointment, your treatment will likely be rescheduled.

DON’T

Don’t pop blisters — this increases risk of scarring.
Don’t pick scabs or peeling skin — let them fall off naturally. Picking also presents a risk for scarring.
Don’t soak the area (no pools, hot tubs, baths or long hot showers) for 48–72 hours.
Don’t apply makeup, scented lotions, etc to the area until healed (only sunscreen!).
Don’t expose the area to sun or tanning beds — this can cause pigmentation issues that may become permanent. (keep covered and use SPF 50 or higher).
Don’t work out heavily for 24–48 hours and for as long as the area is irritated or has blisters.
Don’t scratch or aggressively rub the area even if it itches — use cool compresses instead.

Are there any side effects to laser tattoo removal?

Yes, some side effects are common and expected.

Chakx minimizes these risks by:

Using picosecond technology for safer, more efficient ink shattering
Choosing wavelengths appropriate for your skin type
Performing test spots before initial treatment
Adjusting settings conservatively
Providing clear precare and aftercare instructions
Ensuring proper spacing between sessions for full healing

Common and expected side effects:

Redness — mild sunburn-like appearance
Swelling — usually resolves within 24–48 hours
Frosting — temporary white haze immediately after treatment
Tenderness — soreness for a few days
Scabbing/Crusting — normal part of healing
Itching — avoid scratching if this does occur
Dryness/Flaking — light peeling as skin repairs

Less common side effects:

Blistering — protective fluid bubbles; do not pop
Bruising — fades within a week
Prolonged redness — varies by sensitivity
Pigment Changes (Any Skin Type)
Hyperpigmentation — temporary darkening
Hypopigmentation — lighter patches that typically resolve

Rare side effects:

Texture changes — thickening or thinning if irritated
Scarring — extremely rare when proper post-treatment care is followed

Does laser tattoo removal leave scars?

Pico-second technology and a trained laser tattoo removal technician rarely cause scarring. Remember, following pre and post treatment procedure care is crucial to success.

Is laser tattoo removal permanent?

Yes. Once tattoo ink particles are shattered, the lymphatic system/immune system sends white blood cells to engulf the pigment particles, then filters them through the liver and kidneys. Ultimately the debris is expelled through sweat and other waste. Success of the tattoo removal process is equal parts technology and the natural process of your body.

How long does a laser tattoo removal session take?

Most tattoo removal sessions are between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the size and complexity
of the tattoo. A small tattoo can be treated in just a few minutes, while larger tattoos need more time.

Also, if a tattoo has multiple colors, adjustments are made in the laser unit which add time to the
session.

How long should I wait between tattoo removal sessions?

Treatments are typically spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. This time is dedicated for your skin to heal. In very limited instances a 4 to 6 week spacing can be introduced, this is a case-by-case determination. A few of the factors are listed below. Although the pico-second laser isn’t a heat based treatment like nano-technology, it’s sending focused energy into the skin. Ink that’s been resting in-place for years is being shattered - this has an effect on the body. Once the initial reaction on the surface clears, the unseen areas beneath need to rest, repair, and clear the debris. A 4-6 week interval may be permitted when the client has:

A small, older tattoo with light or amateur ink
No redness, scabbing, or inflammation remaining
Lighter skin types (Fitz I–III) with stable pigment response
A tattoo that is already fading well and not densely packed

Treating too soon doesn’t speed removal; it can actually slow fading. Our goal is for every client to have successful results.

Can laser tattoo removal remove all tattoo colors?

Yes, all tattoo ink colors can be removed. By tailoring the laser wavelength to the color being treated, colors respond well to modern laser technology. Some pigments are more challenging than others.

1064 nm - Best for black, dark blue, and deeply placed inks and is safest on all skin types, including darker skin.

532 nm - Targets red, orange, yellow, violet, and other “sunset” toned inks.

755 nm - Effectively treat green, blue, and teal range pigments. While this range is considered the “pesky to treat” area of the color wheel, the 755 wavelength is most successful at removal.

The advanced laser technology used at Chakx is designed to treat a wide range of tattoo colors, including multicolored tattoos that older laser systems struggled to remove.

How much of my sleeve, back panel or mural can be treated in one session?

The maximum treatment area in any single session is roughly the size of a sheet of paper (8.5 x 11). In this case, that client is able to return for treatment of A NEW AREA of skin in 2 weeks. Areas for re-treatment will need a full 6 weeks healing time.

How much does laser tattoo removal cost?

While advanced laser treatments may cost more per session, they provide safer and consistent level of treatment and often require fewer treatments overall. The cost of tattoo removal depends on several factors: size, location, ink density, and number of colors

Because every tattoo is unique, pricing is provided during your consultation. An approximate guide for pricing is listed on our online booking page.

We recognize the commitment required to receive this service. If the financial side is of concern, please ask us about the different payment options available.

Can my tattoo be completely removed?

Chakx uses advanced picosecond technology to break ink into particles the body gradually clears.
Many clients see significant to full fading (most often greater than 75%), though complete removal is not guaranteed.
Many tattoos can be fully removed or faded until nearly invisible.
Results depend on factors such as the color(s) of your tattoo, the age, depth and density of ink, skin tone, the person’s age, and finally the body’s natural immune response. Even tattoos that cannot be fully erased can usually be faded significantly.

Can darker skin tones safely achieve laser tattoo removal at Chakx?

Yes, absolutely. Chakx uses 1064 nm picosecond technology, the safest and most effective, wavelength for darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI). This wavelength bypasses most melanin in the skin and targets the ink instead, reducing the risk of burns or pigment changes.

Why do darker skin tones react differently to laser treatments?

Darker skin contains more melanin, and melanin naturally absorbs light and heat. During tattoo removal, melanin can compete with tattoo ink for laser energy, which means:

The skin may heat more quickly
There’s a higher chance of temporary pigment changes
Laser settings must be more conservative

This doesn’t mean darker skin can’t be treated — it simply means we take a more customized, cautious approach.

What reactions are more common in darker skin?

Most clients experience normal, temporary healing responses. However, Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin types
have a slightly higher chance of:

Hyperpigmentation (temporary darkening of the skin)
Hypopigmentation (light patches that usually resolve over time)
Blistering or crusting if the skin overheats
Longer healing times between sessions

These reactions are manageable and often temporary. At Chakx, we minimize risks through careful

settings, test spots, and longer intervals between treatments

How does Chakx protect darker skin during treatment?

Your safety is our priority. For Fitzpatrick IV–VI clients, Chakx follows a specialized protocol:

1064 nm picosecond laser only for maximum safety
Lower fluence and longer pulse durations to reduce heat
Mandatory test spots before full treatment
Extended intervals (8–12 weeks) to allow full skin recovery
Strict sunavoidance guidelines before and after each session

Will laser tattoo results take longer on darker skin?

Possibly. Because we use gentler settings to protect your skin, fading may progress more gradually.
Most clients still achieve excellent clearance — it just requires patience and proper spacing between
sessions.

Where can I get laser tattoo removal near Pittsburgh, PA?

If you are searching for laser tattoo removal near Pittsburgh, Chakx provides advanced treatments in the Bridgeville area of South Fayette Township, located with easy access to Interstate 79.

Many clients visit us from nearby communities including Bethel Park, Mt. Lebanon, Upper St. Clair, Washington, Canonsburg, McMurray, Robinson Township, and Cranberry Township.

We also see clients from nearby areas such as Wheeling, Morgantown, and Youngstown seeking advanced tattoo removal technology.