What Happens to Tattoo Ink During Laser Removal?
- Laura
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Thinking about removing a tattoo and wondering how it actually works? One of the most common questions we get at Erase That Ink is: “Where does the ink go during laser tattoo removal?”
This blog explains the science behind laser tattoo removal, including how your body clears out the ink, what role your immune system plays, and why the process takes time. Whether you’re early in your tattoo removal journey or preparing for your first session, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, clearly and confidently.
You’ll also learn why the Quanta Q-Plus C laser we use in our Newton Abbot laser tattoo removal clinic is the gold standard for safe, effective results.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Laser tattoo removal uses targeted bursts of energy to shatter tattoo ink into tiny fragments, allowing your body to flush them out gradually. This process takes place over several weeks and is influenced by your immune system, tattoo type, and ink colour.
It’s not just about fading the ink on the surface - it’s a biological process that requires your body’s full participation.
Let’s break it down.
Step 1 - Fragmentation: The Laser Breaks Down the Ink
During your session, our Quanta Q-Plus C laser delivers rapid, high-intensity pulses of light into the skin’s dermal layer, where the ink is embedded.
Each wavelength of light is carefully selected to match the colour of the ink:
1064nm – best for black and dark blue
532nm – targets red, orange, and yellow
694nm (Ruby) – excellent for green and blue tones
This light energy heats up the pigment, causing the ink particles to shatter into smaller pieces. These fragments are then small enough for your immune system to absorb and remove.
Why does the laser not harm your skin? Because it specifically targets the pigment, leaving surrounding skin tissue mostly untouched, which is why modern lasers are far safer and more effective than older systems or IPL machines.
Step 2 - The Immune System Gets to Work
Once the ink particles are fragmented, your body sees them as foreign matter. This triggers an immune response.
Specialised white blood cells called macrophages are dispatched to the treated area. Their job is to engulf the ink fragments and carry them to your lymphatic system.
The macrophages transport the particles to nearby lymph nodes, where they are processed and eventually sent to your liver for elimination.
You won’t feel this happening; it’s a natural part of your body’s waste management system.
Step 3 - Elimination Through Natural Detox Pathways
The final stage is elimination. Your body gets rid of the ink through:
Urine
Sweat
Faeces
This is why hydration, immune health, and proper aftercare are essential parts of your laser tattoo removal journey. Supporting your body’s detox pathways helps speed up fading and promotes skin recovery between sessions.
Tip: Regular exercise, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding smoking can all improve your body’s elimination efficiency.
Why Do You Need Multiple Laser Removal Sessions?
It’s not possible to remove a tattoo in just one session. Here’s why:
The laser can only target a portion of the ink in each session.
Your immune system needs time to flush out the particles.
Some colours and pigments are more stubborn than others.
Ink that’s embedded deeper in the skin will take longer to reach.
Most tattoos require 6–12 sessions, spaced 6–8 weeks apart. The exact number depends on the tattoo’s age, size, depth, location, colour, and your skin type.
What Happens After Laser Tattoo Removal?
Once your session is complete, the fading process begins - but it doesn’t happen overnight.
The Gradual Fade
Over the following 4 to 8 weeks, you’ll notice the tattoo lightening and softening as more pigment is broken down and removed.
Aftercare Matters
To help your body heal and eliminate the ink, follow all aftercare guidelines. These usually include:
Keeping the area clean and dry
Avoiding sun exposure (use SPF 50+)
Not picking or scratching the treated area
Avoiding strenuous activity for 24 hours
Proper aftercare reduces the risk of complications like blistering, scabbing, or hyperpigmentation.
For full guidance, refer to our Tattoo Removal page.
Real Talk - The Role of Patch Tests in Laser Removal
Before your first session, we always perform a patch test. This is a safety check to:
Test your skin’s response to the laser
Determine the right laser settings
Minimise the risk of scarring or pigmentation changes
It also gives you a chance to see how the treatment feels, ask questions, and get to know our expert team.
Patch tests are mandatory at Erase That Ink, and they’re a crucial part of your safety and results.
Why Choose Erase That Ink for Laser Tattoo Removal in the UK?
We use the Quanta Q-Plus C laser, capable of targeting all ink colours.
Our technicians are Level 5 certified - the highest qualification in the UK.
We're members of the BMLA (British Medical Laser Association).
We've been rated Best Laser Tattoo Removal Clinic in Devon (SME Awards 2020) and South West Beauty & Aesthetics Awards - Laser Clinic Of the Year 2025
We specialise in removing eyebrow tattoos (SPMU) and multi-colour ink.
Visit our clinic in Newton Abbot to experience a safe, professional, and supportive environment.
What Happens to Tattoo Ink After Laser Removal in Short
The science behind tattoo removal is fascinating - and it’s all thanks to the precision of modern lasers and the power of your immune system.
By breaking down ink into manageable fragments, your body does the rest, gradually fading your tattoo over time. The journey requires patience, consistency, and the right team by your side.
At Erase That Ink, we combine medical-grade laser technology with qualified expertise and personalised care.
Start Fading Your Ink Today
Book your consultation and patch test today with our team or laser tattoo removal technicians in Newton Abbot.