Once you decide to remove a tattoo, the next question usually boils down to one: How many sessions will my tattoo require?
To help you estimate the number of tattoo removal sessions with a simple self-diagnosis before visiting a dermatology clinic, today we've compiled a method for scoring by item.
Score each item and sum them up
First, you can score each item and then sum them up at the end to apply to the estimated session graph.
A higher score may indicate a more difficult tattoo to remove.
Skin tone affects laser penetration
When removing a tattoo, the ink color is important, but your natural skin tone is also a very crucial factor before starting.
Darker skin tones have melanin particles that interfere with laser penetration. Therefore, removal may be more challenging compared to individuals with lighter skin tones.
There's one more thing: if you tan or expose your skin to strong UV rays during tattoo removal, the number of removal sessions may increase.
What is my skin type score?
The method of classifying skin types by score is called the Fitzpatrick Skin Type.
- 1 point for light skin tones, like Caucasians from Northern Europe
- 6 points for African Americans
- Koreans typically score between 3 and 5 points
If you consider your skin to be lighter than others, you can assign 3 points; if it's significantly darker, you can assign 5 points.
Where is the tattoo on your body?
The number of removal sessions can also vary depending on the tattoo's location. This is because the broken tattoo ink is discharged through the lymphatic vessels, and blood vessels and lymphatic vessels are more developed in the face and upper body.
| Area | Score |
|---|---|
| Face, Neck | 1 point |
| Navel, Upper Body | 2 points |
| Torso below navel | 3 points |
| Arms and Legs | 4 points |
| Lower Arms and Legs | 5 points |
Estimate by the visible amount of ink
It is actually difficult to determine the amount of ink yourself. Since the amount of ink injected into the dermal layer of the skin is unknown, this method involves estimating based only on what is visible to the eye on the epidermal layer.
If the amount of ink appears small to anyone, assign 1 point. If it was designed with a dense feel, assign 2 to 5 points. If a cover-up tattoo was added, you can add that score additionally.
Scars interfere with laser penetration
Sometimes tattoos are used to cover scars, and conversely, scars can form during the tattooing process itself.
It is true that the presence of scars can hinder laser penetration, making tattoo removal more difficult. If there are no scars, assign 0 points. If there are scars, assign 1 to 5 points depending on their severity, based on the texture of the skin as you perceive it.
Information on scar management itself is compiled in the Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar treatment guide.
Different wavelengths are used for each color
Tattoo colors often vary depending on the design. When removing tattoos, different laser wavelengths are used for each color.
Black ink absorbs laser wavelengths well and is generally easier to remove. Conversely, tattoos with various colors may not allow laser penetration easily, with yellow, white, and flesh tones being particularly challenging.
Black scores low, while tattoos with many colors are considered 4 points. The more types of colors, the more difficult removal may be.
Differences based on equipment configuration can be found in the R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal guide and the Nd:YAG Tattoo Removal guide.
Applying the total score to the estimated number of sessions
By summing the scores from each item explained so far and applying them to the graph, you can roughly predict as follows:
| Total Score | Estimated Removal Sessions |
|---|---|
| 7 points | Approximately 9 sessions |
| 8 to 10 points | Approximately 14 sessions or less |
| 11 to 12 points | Approximately 17 sessions or less |
| 13 to 15 points | Approximately 20 sessions |
Tattoo removal has many variables depending on comprehensive factors, including skin condition. This index is not an absolute value, so please use it as a reference.
For actual treatment plans, please refer to the Tattoo Removal Treatment Guide. If you wish to check which score range you fall into, please send us a chat inquiry.
Authored and Medically Reviewed by Chief Director Dr. Lee Sang-Joo (Dermatologist) Ph.D. in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine Graduate School · Resident in Dermatology, Severance Hospital Former Professor of Dermatology, Yeongdong Severance Hospital · President of the Korean Dermatological Association in 2026 View Medical Staff Profile
First published 2024-07-18 · Last reviewed 2026-07-29
This article contains general medical information and does not substitute for individual diagnosis and treatment. Results and recovery progress may vary by individual.