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LaserAway uses FDA-cleared laser technology designed to selectively fade tattoo ink, not damage surrounding skin. These lasers deliver short, high-energy pulses that break dense pigment into smaller fragments. This controlled approach helps lighten tattoos evenly, making them easier to cover with new artwork.
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No. Ink color plays a role in how easily a tattoo fades. Dark colors like black and dark blue typically respond fastest, while brighter pigments may require more sessions. Even when certain colors do not fully disappear, they can often be faded enough to support a successful cover-up.
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Tattoo fading for cover-up can be performed on most areas of the body, depending on tattoo placement, skin condition, and overall candidacy. Your clinician will evaluate the area during your consultation and confirm if fading is appropriate.
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Tattoo fading focuses on lightening ink, not erasing it completely. The goal is to reduce saturation, soften outlines, and break up heavy shading so new artwork looks cleaner and more detailed. Tattoo removal aims to eliminate as much ink as possible, which is not necessary for most cover-ups.
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Yes. Partial fading is common for cover-ups. Your clinician can focus on specific areas, such as dark outlines or heavy shading, to help your artist achieve the best result.
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The number of sessions depends on how much fading is needed for your cover-up. Some tattoos only require a few treatments to reduce darkness, while others with dense shading or multiple layers may need more. Treatments are spaced at least eight weeks apart to allow your body time to clear pigment.
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Many patients begin noticing visible fading within a few weeks after their first session. Fading continues gradually between treatments as your body clears fragmented ink.
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That depends on the design of your new tattoo. Most artists prefer at least partial fading, especially in dark or heavily saturated areas. Your clinician can help estimate how much fading is needed based on your cover-up goals.
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Yes. Larger tattoos may require longer sessions or more treatments to achieve even fading, while smaller tattoos often fade more quickly.
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Tattoo fading for cover-up is not intended to fully remove tattoos. While significant lightening can occur, the goal is to improve the foundation for new ink rather than erase the tattoo entirely.
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Yes. Many tattoo artists recommend laser fading because it allows more flexibility with color, detail, and design, and reduces the need for overly dark or thick cover-up work.
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Most people are good candidates for tattoo fading. Older tattoos and darker pigments typically fade more easily, while newer or colorful tattoos may take more sessions. Your clinician will assess your tattoo, skin tone, and medical history during your consultation.
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Yes. Laser settings are customized based on skin tone to support safe, effective fading across a wide range of skin types.
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Temporary redness, swelling, or mild blistering can occur and typically resolve within a few days. As the area heals, you may notice flaking or peeling. Your clinician will provide aftercare instructions to support healing.
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Before treatment, a topical numbing cream is applied and protective eyewear is provided. The clinician delivers precise laser pulses to the tattoo while cooling technology helps keep skin comfortable. Most patients describe the sensation as quick snaps against the skin.
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Most patients say tattoo fading is more tolerable than getting a tattoo, especially with numbing and cooling used during treatment.
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Session length depends on tattoo size, but most appointments last under one hour.
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No downtime is required. You can return to normal daily activities right away, though you should avoid heat, friction, and sun exposure while the area heals.
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Most artists recommend waiting until the skin is fully healed and fading has stabilized, typically several weeks after your final session. Your clinician can help guide timing based on your progress.
