If you got a tattoo when you were younger and are now regretting it, you’re far from alone. In response to a growing number of adults looking to have their tattoos removed, there’s a new practice in New Jersey that specializes in just that. In recent years, the number of laser tattoo removal procedures has spiked among dermatologists and technicians at medspas and clinics. To meet the demand, a new Clark-based practice called Laser Eraser recently opened with an exclusive focus on removing tattoos in a facility owned and operated by board-certified physicians. We asked Dr. Lendbergh Hobson with Laser Eraser what getting a tattoo removed entails, how long it takes, what it costs and more.
New Jersey Family: It seems like the number of laser-removal procedures, particularly tattoo removal, is surging. What can you tell us about the trend of adults, and moms, in particular, getting tattoos removed?
Dr. Lendbergh Hobson: There has been a noticeable surge in the demand for tattoo removal, across all demographics, including mothers. There are numerous factors that can drive someone to seek tattoo removal, ranging from professional considerations, such as certain jobs requiring no visible tattoos, to personal milestones like parenthood, or a wedding prompting a reevaluation of past tattoo choices. Some people may want to remove or fade an existing tattoo to make room for a new piece of artwork.
What may have once resonated with us may no longer align with our current selves, and it’s empowering that people now have options rather than feeling stuck with something they no longer desire. With advancements in tattoo removal technology, individuals now have access to high-quality services that can effectively address tattoos they wish to remove.
NJF: What inspired you to open Laser Eraser and what kinds of services do you offer?
LH: Laser Eraser was founded by three board-certified physicians, and we have all undergone extensive training in laser tattoo removal. We established our practice to address the specific demand for experienced physicians offering this service in New Jersey. Witnessing the growing desire for tattoo removal, often fueled by patient apprehension, our goal was to create a specialized medical facility.
Unlike many medical spas that offer a wide range of services without a specialized focus on laser tattoo removal, Laser Eraser is dedicated solely to this procedure. We ensure a high level of expertise and prioritize a professional and personalized approach to each individual.
NJF: What role do doctors play in removing a tattoo? Does the tattoo removal approach depend on a person’s medical background? Or where the tattoo is located?
LH: At Laser Eraser you will have your consultation, procedure, and aftercare performed and overseen by a board-certified physician. During this time we will review:
- Initial Assessment and Consultation: Our doctors will conduct an initial assessment to evaluate the tattoo, the patient’s skin type, and overall health. We can help determine the suitability for laser tattoo removal and discuss potential risks and benefits.
- Medical History: A person’s medical background is crucial in assessing their candidacy for tattoo removal. Certain medical conditions, medications, or skin conditions affect the type of lasers used.
- Treatment Plan: Our team will create a personalized treatment plan based on the individual’s medical history, skin type, and the characteristics of the tattoo. The location of the tattoo can influence the removal approach, and we take this into consideration when planning the treatment. For example, Cosmetic Tattoos/Permanent Makeup (eyebrows, beauty marks, scalp micropigmentation etc.) on the face/head are approached differently than those on the body. We will also prescribe you topical anesthetics to minimize any discomfort.

NJF: Can you explain the process of removing a tattoo?Â
LH: At Laser Eraser we use the Picoway Laser which is one of the most advanced and effective lasers for tattoo removal. Essentially, the laser emits high-intensity light pulses in very short picosecond durations. These pulses target the tattoo ink particles, specifically breaking them down into smaller fragments without damaging the surrounding skin.
A typical session begins with the patient wearing protective eyewear to shield their eyes from the laser light. We advise applying the topical anesthetic 30 minutes before your appointment to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Next, the Picoway laser is calibrated to the specific characteristics of the tattoo, including its color, depth and complexity.
Once everything is set, our physician passes the laser over the tattooed area, delivering short bursts of laser energy. As the laser light is absorbed by the tattoo ink particles, they heat up and shatter into tiny fragments. Over time, the body’s immune system recognizes these fragments as foreign and gradually removes them through the lymphatic system.
NJF: Many tattoos require multiple sessions and take time to remove. Can you explain this process and how long it typically takes to remove a tattoo?
LH: On average, it can take anywhere from 5 to 15 sessions or more to achieve desired results, but this can vary widely depending on several factors:
- Size and Complexity of the Tattoo: Larger or more intricate tattoos often require more sessions to break down and remove the ink particles effectively.
- Ink Colors: Certain colors are more challenging to remove than others. Darker colors like black tend to respond better to laser treatment, while lighter colors may require additional sessions.
- Ink Depth: Tattoos that are deeper in the skin may require more sessions to effectively break down the ink particles.
- Type of Ink Used: Unfortunately, tattoo ink is not FDA-regulated. The inks used are all different and can contain various ingredients. This causes various results.
- Age of the Tattoo: Older tattoos tend to fade more easily than newer ones, so they may require fewer sessions for removal.
- Skin Type: At Laser Eraser, we specialize in removing tattoos on all skin types.
- Location on the Body: The location of the tattoo on the body can influence the number of sessions needed. Areas with better blood circulation typically need fewer sessions to be removed.
- Pre-existing Scarring: If the tattoo was applied over scar tissue, the presence of scar tissue can make removal more challenging and may require additional sessions.
This is why we have a thorough consultation with all of our clients before the process to assess their individual needs and plan.
NJF:Â Is tattoo removal painful? What are the side effects? What does recovery look like?
LH: We try to make the process as painless as possible. Before your appointment, we prescribe patients a numbing ointment to help minimize any pain. Prior to using the laser, the area is iced and cold air is blown over the tattoo to cause an anesthetic effect.  As for side effects, they’re typically mild and temporary. You might experience redness, mild soreness and swelling to the treated area. This will usually resolve in 2-10 days. Recovery varies from person to person, but for most folks who have minor discomfort it will only last 2-3 hours. It’s important to follow post-care instructions including avoiding sun exposure and keeping the area clean and moisturized. Overall, the majority of patients find that the process is fairly easy and well worth it to achieve their desired tattoo removal results.
NJF: How much can a patient expect to pay for laser tattoo removal?
LH: The cost of laser tattoo removal can vary widely based on several factors, including the size and complexity of the tattoo, the number of sessions required and the location of the tattoo.
At Laser Eraser financing options for laser tattoo removal are available. We also offer free consultations at LaserEraserNow.com to get a personalized assessment and cost estimate based on their specific situation. During the consultation, patients can discuss pricing, the expected number of sessions and the financing options.
NJF: Are there some areas of the body that are more challenging for tattoo removal than others?
LH: Yes, the ease of tattoo removal can vary depending on the location of the tattoo on the body. Generally, areas with better blood circulation and a higher concentration of immune cells tend to need fewer sessions and the removal process is quicker. Tattoos on the extremities, such as hands and feet, may need a few more sessions due to the relatively lower blood circulation in these areas.
NJF: What should patients know about care after the tattoo is removed such as staying out of the sun or any other guidance?
LH: After undergoing laser tattoo removal, we provide post-treatment care guidelines to optimize healing and minimize potential complications. General recommendations include keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding picking or scratching, protecting the areas from the sun by avoiding direct sunlight and using a high SPF when exposed to the sun and staying hydrated.
NJF: What are some other services you offer besides tattoo removal?
LH: Â At Laser Eraser, we focus on tattoo removal which includes body art and permanent makeup/cosmetic tattoo removal. This includes not only complete tattoo removal but also tattoo fading for individuals seeking cover-ups. Â
NJF: What is the biggest misconception you see with prospective clients when it comes to tattoo removal?
LH: One of the biggest misconceptions among prospective clients seeking tattoo removal is the assumption that all tattoos are the same to remove or that it only takes one session. As we described earlier, there are several factors that will go into the removal process.
Another misconception is that all laser tattoo machines are the same. At Laser Eraser we will always use the latest technology. We currently use the Picoway Laser, which, as we described earlier, emits high-intensity light pulses that specifically target the tattoo ink particles, breaking them down into smaller fragments without damaging the surrounding skin. This laser is excellent for treating even difficult blue, red and green tattoos, which some people may have been told in the past can’t be removed.
Laser Eraser is located at 77 Central Avenue in Clark.
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