With the popularity of fashion and mini tattoos, many people get light tattoos. Lettering is especially common for a first tattoo, and accordingly, many people inquire about removal costs.
We've compiled a list of items that would be good to check before comparing prices.
Why lettering fades particularly slowly
This is because the pigment is very dense. To express letters, a large amount of ink must be injected deeply to create thick, dark lines.
Therefore, to remove it with a laser, the laser must reach deep into the skin, requiring multiple sessions, and removal can inevitably take a long time.
Check sessions and intervals first
Similarly, even picture tattoos consisting only of dark lines often require at least 5 sessions, or even close to 10, for satisfactory removal.
Many people ask if narrowing the interval will lead to better removal, but at Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon, we proceed with the following intervals:
| Session | Visit Interval |
|---|---|
| Up to 5th session | 1 month |
| 6th session or more | 2 months |
Why intervals increase over time
This is due to the principle of tattoo removal. The principle is to break down the pigment into tiny particles, inducing macrophages to absorb and remove them more quickly, and macrophages need time to transport the pigment.
Therefore, from the 6th session onwards, we proceed with a sufficient interval of 2 months.
If you plan to undergo multiple sessions, package payments are available, so please inquire during your consultation.
How many times is the laser applied per visit?
Using PFD medication, the laser can be applied up to four times repeatedly in a single visit. This method is called R-Zero Pinhole Technique, and the Pinhole Technique, which prevents scarring, is performed as the final step of the laser procedure.
Some people worry that multiple applications might be too much for the skin, but we proceed with laser output tailored to the individual's skin condition. Detailed information is provided in the R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal guide and Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar procedure guide.
How is pain managed?
Along with cost, pain is the most frequently asked question. Some people describe it as more painful than getting the tattoo itself.
This is because when the laser is applied, the pigment reacts and the tattoo particles burst, causing a tearing sensation. If the pigment is located in an area dense with nerves and blood vessels, the pain may feel more intense.
Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon reduces pain with non-sedative nitrous oxide anesthesia. This method has been widely used in dental treatments and is an FDA-approved inhalation anesthesia.
- It tends to have fewer side effects.
- Since it's not sedation, the recovery time from anesthesia is short.
- There is almost no inconvenience in daily life, and recovery is fast enough to drive on the same day as the anesthesia.
Individual differences in pain perception may exist.
Last thing to check
Most importantly, it is crucial to receive treatment from trusted medical professionals. All medical staff at Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon are board-certified dermatologists, performing procedures with safety as their priority, based on over 20 years of experience.
For the overall treatment flow, please refer to the Tattoo Removal Treatment Guide, and for inquiries about sessions and costs, please contact us via chat now.
Authored · Medically Reviewed by Dr. Kang Jin-moon, Chief Director (Board-certified Dermatologist) Graduated from Yonsei University College of Medicine · Resident in Dermatology at Severance Hospital Current Adjunct Professor, Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine · Member of the Korean Dermatological Association View Medical Staff Profile
First Published 2024-01-23 · 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.