
More and more people are getting tattoos as a fashion trend and then visiting us for removal later for various reasons.
Among these, the most common concern is pain. Today, we will go through the low-pain system at Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon.
Removing is more painful than getting a tattoo
Tattoo removal is accompanied by greater pain than getting a tattoo. Therefore, various anesthesia solutions are used together during the procedure to quickly reduce skin irritation and proceed with reduced pain.

First layer: Topical Anesthetic Cream
Topical anesthetic cream is sufficiently applied to the skin surface to reduce pain. This is the first step to lower irritation coming from the surface.
Second layer: Cryo-Anesthesia
Also known as air cooling. This method involves applying cold air deep into the skin to reduce pain and discomfort that may occur during the procedure.

Third layer: Non-sleep Nitrous Oxide Anesthesia
Nitrous oxide is a substance whose anesthetic effect has been confirmed for a long time and is known as a highly safe drug.
It creates a state where one can recognize people, surroundings, and conditions while conscious, but with reduced pain and fear.
The advantage of this method is that communication with the medical staff and precise procedures are possible simultaneously even after sedation.

The equipment is also certified
The anesthesia equipment used in our clinic is Matrix. It is a device certified by the FDA, CE, and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
| Layer | Method | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Topical Anesthetic Cream | Reduces pain on the skin surface |
| Deep layer | Cryo-Anesthesia | Reduces pain and discomfort with cold air |
| Consciousness | Non-sleep Nitrous Oxide | Reduces both pain and fear |

After pain, choosing a hospital is important
For tattoo removal, choosing a hospital is paramount. Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon has resident dermatologists who are specialists with 20 years of experience in various cases across all fields of scar treatment, and they directly provide treatment.
- We first check the individual's condition, including skin type, pigment type, and depth.
- Then, we perform the R-Zero Technique with PicoWay equipment.
- This method involves four irradiations in a single session.
Information on equipment and techniques is organized in R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal, and procedures that also address scars are detailed in Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar. The treatment flow can be seen in Tattoo Removal Treatment Guide.
If you are concerned about pain, time, or recovery, please feel free to contact us via chat now. There may be individual differences in pain perception.


Authored and Medically Reviewed by Representative Director Dr. Lee Sang-joo (Dermatologist) Graduated from Yonsei University College of Medicine · Resident in Dermatology at Severance Hospital Ph.D. in Medicine from Yonsei University Graduate School · Author of "Cosmetic Treatment Using Gold PTT" View Medical Staff Profile
First published 2024-03-19 · 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.
