Laser Tattoo Removal
Mill Creek Skin & Laser Center was the first clinic in Washington state to offer laser tattoo removal. Since 2009, our team has built a deep foundation of clinical expertise in this highly specialized field.
Laser tattoo removal should be approached as a medical treatment, not merely a cosmetic service. Tattoos involve unregulated ink, varying depths of pigment penetration into the dermis, and scar tissue that forms from the original skin trauma. These complex factors mean that a one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective. To successfully remove a tattoo—while preserving the skin’s health for either re-tattooing or full restoration—a customized, multi-technology strategy is essential.
Drawing on years of clinical experience, Dr. Lin has developed his own specialized treatment protocol using a combination of PicoSure Pro® and other advanced laser technologies, selected based on ink color, depth, age, and the presence of scar tissue. This individualized approach allows us to target both pigment and scarring independently, minimizing damage to surrounding skin and delivering faster, more effective results with reduced risk of scarring.
Procedure
We treat tattoos of all sizes, colors, and types—including professional, amateur (homemade), traumatic, surgical, and certain cosmetic tattoos.
The sensation of laser tattoo removal is often described as similar to getting a tattoo. Discomfort can vary depending on the treatment area—fatty areas tend to be more comfortable, while bony areas may feel more sensitive. To maximize comfort and protect the surrounding skin, we utilize a cooling system throughout the procedure.
Most tattoos require multiple sessions, typically spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart—or longer if needed—to allow for adequate healing and pigment clearance. Factors such as ink quality, unknown pigment depth, and the presence of scar tissue all affect how the skin responds and how many treatments are needed.
We often treat patients who have undergone unsuccessful laser tattoo removal elsewhere, where they were promised a fixed number of sessions that failed to deliver results. In some cases, incorrect treatment has even trapped or “cooked” the ink into scar tissue, making future removal more difficult. These outcomes typically result from a lack of clinical knowledge and the misuse of a single-type pigment laser, which is rarely effective on its own.
At Mill Creek Skin & Laser Center, we use a multi-laser, medically guided approach that’s tailored to the unique characteristics of each tattoo—ensuring both effective ink removal and the preservation of healthy skin.
Benefits
- Treat using the world’s fastest and most current laser tattoo removal technology – the PicoSure Pro® Laser – combined with other lasers to boost treatment for optimal results
- We can treat any area of the body
- We can treat all skin types
- Faster results
- Safe and effective
Permanent Eyebrow Tattoo Removal
Dr. Lin is the most experienced physician in the region who specializes in the safe and precise removal of permanent eyebrow tattoos. Due to the sensitive location near the eyes, this procedure requires the highest level of skill and caution to avoid injury to the eyes while delivering safe, consistent results.
At Mill Creek Skin & Laser Center, eyebrow tattoo removal always begins with a test spot to determine how the ink reacts to laser treatment. This step is essential because cosmetic eyebrow tattoos often contain a mix of pigments customized to match your hair and skin tone. Unfortunately, due to the lack of regulation in tattoo ink manufacturing, some pigments can oxidize or shift color during laser exposure—turning shades of gray—and may even become permanently embedded and resistant to removal.
Our test spot protocol ensures that we approach each case ethically and with full transparency, so you understand how your skin and tattoo may respond before committing to full treatment.
Whether your goal is full removal or correction, Dr. Lin provides carefully customized treatment plans based on your skin type, ink behavior, and aesthetic goals.
Body Tattoo Removal
Each body tattoo is unique and requires careful evaluation. Dr. Lin has treated a wide range of body tattoos—from professional and amateur designs to traumatic tattoos caused by injury. Our focus is not only to remove the ink but also to restore the skin’s natural texture and tone, allowing for a clean canvas whether the goal is complete clearance or preparation for a cover-up tattoo.
While most patients do not experience scarring from laser tattoo removal, individual skin responses vary. We take every precaution to prevent scarring, and for those who do develop it, Mill Creek Skin & Laser Center offers advanced scar treatment options as part of our comprehensive care.
When it comes to laser tattoo removal, it’s difficult to predict exactly how many treatments will be needed because every tattoo is unique. Several factors affect how a tattoo responds to laser treatment, including:
- Ink color – We use a proprietary laser combination to treat all ink colors, but results depend on the ink’s components. Colors like red, green, blue, yellow, and white can be unpredictable and may cause permanent color changes, so we recommend a test spot first.
- Ink depth and quality – Professional tattoos are typically deeper and more saturated than amateur ones.
- Location on the body – Areas with better circulation tend to heal and clear ink more efficiently.
- Skin type and immune response – Your body’s ability to break down and clear ink is a major factor.
- Age of the tattoo – Older tattoos generally respond more quickly than newer ones.
At Mill Creek Skin & Laser Center, we go beyond what most clinics offer. We use a combination of advanced lasers to treat not only the ink, but also the depth and any scarring associated with the tattoo. By targeting multiple layers and conditions, our treatments are designed to deliver faster and more complete results than clinics that focus on just ink alone.
We’ll customize your treatment plan based on how your tattoo responds, and guide you every step of the way.
Recovery and Results
After treatment, you may experience slight redness, swelling, or pinpoint bleeding in the treated area. This feels similar to a sunburn and will gradually disappear within 48 hours. Please read the pre- and post-treatment information provided for further care instructions.
The treated tattoo will begin to fade over the next six to eight weeks as your body processes and eliminates the ink particles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Laser tattoo removal at our Mill Creek WA clinic uses advanced laser technology to break down ink so your body can gradually clear it away.
Our lasers emit focused light pulses that fragment tattoo ink particles, allowing your immune system to eliminate them over time.
Yes, our trained professionals provide safe laser tattoo removal tailored to your skin type and tattoo characteristics.
The number of sessions depends on tattoo size, ink color, age of tattoo, and your skin, but most clients need multiple treatments spaced weeks apart.
Most patients feel discomfort similar to a rubber band snap, but we provide guidance on minimizing pain during treatment.
Black and dark colors typically respond best, while certain colors like yellow and green may take longer or require special settings.
Sessions are usually brief, with time depending on the size and complexity of your tattoo.
Most clients can resume normal activities with basic aftercare instructions from our Mill Creek WA specialists.
Avoid tanning, keep the area protected from sun, and follow pre‑treatment instructions provided by our clinic.
Apply cold compresses, keep the area clean and protected, and follow our detailed post‑treatment care plan.
Costs vary by tattoo size, number of sessions, and complexity, so a personalized consultation gives you exact pricing.
Yes, we offer consultations in Mill Creek WA to assess your tattoo and design a custom removal plan.
Our clinic evaluates each case, including cosmetic tattoos, and may recommend appropriate treatment options.
Laser tattoo removal is typically considered cosmetic and is not covered by insurance.
With professional care and proper aftercare, scarring is uncommon, though individual results vary.
Sessions are usually spaced several weeks apart to allow skin healing and optimal results.
Yes, our experienced team adjusts laser settings for safety and effectiveness across different skin tones.
Many tattoos fade significantly, but complete removal is not guaranteed due to factors like ink type and depth.
Temporary redness, swelling, and pigment changes can occur, but risks are minimized with our expert care.
Call us or book online to schedule your tattoo removal appointment at our Mill Creek WA location.
