Complete Guide to Laser Tattoo Removal in Las Vegas (2026)
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Laser tattoo removal works by directing concentrated pulses of laser energy into the skin, targeting ink pigment particles embedded in the dermis. The laser energy shatters these particles into smaller fragments, which the body’s immune system then naturally clears over the following weeks. Modern medical-grade lasers can selectively target ink particles without significantly damaging surrounding skin tissue.
What Is a Picosecond Laser?
Picosecond lasers fire pulses measured in trillionths of a second — far faster than traditional Q-Switched nanosecond lasers. This ultra-fast delivery shatters ink particles more efficiently, meaning faster clearance, fewer sessions, better results on difficult ink colors (greens, blues, yellows), and less thermal damage to surrounding tissue.
How Many Sessions Does Laser Tattoo Removal Take?
Most tattoos require between 6 and 12 sessions for significant clearance. Factors affecting the number of sessions include: ink age (older tattoos clear faster), ink colors (black clears fastest; greens and yellows are hardest), ink density, skin tone, tattoo location, and immune health.
The Kirby-Desai Scale
Clinicians use the Kirby-Desai Scale — a scoring tool rating skin tone, location, ink color, ink volume, scarring, and layering — to estimate sessions needed. Dr. Citro uses this assessment during your initial consultation.
What Is a PFD Patch and How Does It Reduce Sessions?
A PFD (perfluorodecalin) patch is applied over the tattoo during treatment. It reduces frosting (the white effect that blocks further laser passes), allows multiple passes in one session, and can reduce total sessions by 30–40%. Original You is one of the few Las Vegas clinics that routinely uses PFD patches as part of its standard protocol.
How Much Does Laser Tattoo Removal Cost in Las Vegas?
Pricing varies by size: Small tattoo: $100–$300/session. Medium tattoo: $200–$500/session. Large tattoo: $400–$1,000+/session. Original You offers package pricing for multi-session plans, which is the most cost-effective approach for most patients.
Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?
Most patients describe it as feeling like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Pain management options at Original You include: topical numbing cream, injectable local anesthetic, and Zimmer cooling device (cold air during treatment).
Can All Tattoo Ink Colors Be Removed?
Black and dark blue inks are easiest to remove. Red and orange are moderate. Green, teal, and yellow are the most difficult, requiring picosecond or specific wavelength lasers. Original You uses multi-wavelength medical-grade systems to address all ink colors.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Safe?
When performed by trained clinicians with medical-grade equipment, laser tattoo removal is very safe. Mild and temporary side effects include redness, swelling, blistering, and scabbing. Scarring is rare when treatment is performed correctly. Original You treatments are supervised by Dr. Brian Citro, MD — a Board-Certified General Surgeon.
How to Choose a Laser Tattoo Removal Clinic in Las Vegas
Ask these questions: Is there a physician on-site? What laser model do they use? Do they use PFD patches? Do they offer a consultation before committing? Are package prices available?
Why Choose Original You?
- PFD Patch Protocol — reduces sessions and accelerates clearance
- Medical-Grade Multi-Wavelength Lasers — for all ink colors
- Local Anesthetic Options — for comfortable treatment
- Physician Supervision — Board-Certified Surgeon on-site
- Package Pricing — cost-effective multi-session plans
- Four Locations — Las Vegas, Summerlin, Desert Shores, Centennial Hills
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I remove just part of a tattoo?
A: Yes. Partial removal or fading for cover-ups is very common.
Q: How long between sessions?
A: Typically 6–8 weeks to allow the immune system to clear ink and skin to heal.
Q: Can I remove a tattoo if I have dark skin?
A: Yes, with proper equipment. Original You uses settings calibrated for all skin tones.
Q: Will my tattoo be 100% removed?
A: Most tattoos achieve invisible-to-the-naked-eye clearance. Some may leave a faint ghost image.
Q: How do I prepare?
A: Avoid sun exposure 4–6 weeks before, stay hydrated, avoid blood thinners 1 week prior.
Book Your Consultation
Call: 702-631-5009 | Email: Contact@OriginalYouLV.com | Location: 7477 W Lake Mead Blvd, Suite 106, Las Vegas, NV 89128. Also serving Summerlin, Desert Shores, and Centennial Hills.
Thinking about laser tattoo removal?
Consultations are free and end with a written plan and a price — no pressure, no obligation. Every treatment at Original You is performed by a PA, NP or MD, never a technician.
Keep reading
large tattoo removal utilizing the Enlighten III laser at Original You
Best Laser Tattoo Removal for Large Tattoos Using the Enlighten III Laser at Original You The process of tattoo removal can often seem daunting, especially for…
Read the postWhat Is PICO Genesis? A Physician’s Complete Guide to Skin Rejuvenation (2026)
INTRODUCTION: If you’ve been researching laser skin treatments in Las Vegas, you’ve likely come across PICO Genesis. It’s one of the most talked-about skin rejuvenation technologies…
Read the postIs Laser Hair Removal Safe for Dark Skin? A Doctor’s Complete Guide (2026)
How Laser Hair Removal Works Laser hair removal uses selective photothermolysis — targeting melanin in hair follicles and converting light energy into heat to destroy the…
Read the post