This guide covers tattoo removal costs in detail. Keep reading to learn:
If you have more questions, call (905) 451-4545.
Table Summary of Tattoo Removal Cost in Mississauga Ontario
Cost Breakdown By Tattoo Removal Method
Here are the costs of current tattoo removal methods.
1. Laser Tattoo Removal
Cost:
Small tattoos: $100 - $200 per session
Medium tattoos: $250 - $500 per session
Large tattoos: $500 - $1,000 per session Note: 6–12 sessions are required; the price varies with tattoo size and color.
Laser tattoo removal uses high-intensity pulses to fragment tattoo ink particles, allowing the body’s immune system to eliminate them over time. It’s effective for most colors, with new picosecond lasers handling difficult hues like green and yellow. Pain levels are moderate, with healing taking about 1–2 weeks after each session.
2. Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL)
Cost: $100 - $500 per session, depending on tattoo size and ink color.
IPL uses broad-spectrum light to lighten tattoos, making it suitable for lighter colors on fair skin tones. It’s less intense than traditional laser methods but requires more sessions. Pain is mild, and healing usually takes a few days.
3. PicoSure and Picosecond Laser Removal
Cost:
Small tattoos: $150 - $400 per session
Medium tattoos: $500 - $750 per session
Large tattoos: $1,000 - $1,500 per sessionFewer sessions may be needed compared to traditional lasers.
Picosecond lasers like PicoSure work faster, breaking ink particles more efficiently. These lasers are especially effective for stubborn colors (green, yellow, blue) and may require fewer sessions than traditional lasers. Healing time is 1–2 weeks, and the pain level is moderate.
4. Dermabrasion
Cost: $500 - $1,000 per session. Multiple sessions are often required for full removal.
This technique sands down the tattooed area with an abrasive tool, removing layers of skin along with the ink. Though effective, it’s more painful and has a longer healing time (2–3 weeks). Dermabrasion is usually used for smaller tattoos, and scarring is likely.
5. Salabrasion
Cost: Approximately $100 - $200 per session, though effectiveness is limited.
Salabrasion is an older method that uses a salt solution to scrub the tattooed skin, causing the ink to lighten. It’s painful and not commonly recommended due to scarring risks and limited effectiveness. Healing can take several weeks.
6. Cryosurgery (Cryotherapy)
Cost: $100 - $700 per session. Fewer sessions may be needed for small tattoos.
This method freezes the tattooed area with liquid nitrogen before removing the skin. It’s best for small tattoos but carries a risk of scarring. The pain level is high, but anesthesia is typically used. Healing time is around 1–3 weeks.
7. Tattoo Removal Creams
Cost: $40 - $100 per bottle, requiring repeated applications over several months.
These creams can lighten tattoos slightly through bleaching or exfoliation. While affordable, they’re generally ineffective for complete removal. Pain is minimal, though skin irritation is possible.
8. Chemical Peel Tattoo Removal
Cost: $200 - $500 per session, depending on tattoo size and location. Multiple sessions are usually necessary.
Chemical peels, often using TCA, remove layers of skin and lighten tattoos over time. This method works best for small tattoos but has a moderate risk of scarring. Healing usually takes 1–2 weeks, and patients experience a burning sensation during application.
9. Surgical Excision
Cost: $1,000 - $5,000, depending on tattoo size and complexity.
In surgical excision, the tattooed skin is cut out, and the surrounding skin is sewn together. While highly effective, it’s primarily used for small tattoos due to the potential for noticeable scarring. The pain level is minimal during the procedure but can be uncomfortable during recovery, which takes several weeks.
Tattoo Removal Cost Breakdown by Size
1–2 Inches (Small Tattoo, like a Tiny Symbol or Initials)
Per Session Cost: $100 - $200 CAD
Average Total Cost (6–10 Sessions): $600 - $2,000 CAD
Small tattoos, like those under 2 inches, are the least expensive to remove because they have minimal ink coverage. Black or dark-colored tattoos are often less costly in this size range. Lighter colors may increase the number of sessions needed, raising the total cost slightly.
2–4 Inches (Small Tattoo, like a Name or Simple Design)
Per Session Cost: $200 - $300 CAD
Average Total Cost (6–10 Sessions): $1,200 - $3,000 CAD
Small designs, such as names or simple symbols, fall within this range. These tattoos still have relatively low ink density, which keeps per-session costs moderate. However, green, blue, and yellow colors can add complexity, especially if older laser technology is used.
4–6 Inches (Medium Tattoo, like a Heart, Butterfly, or Small Wrist Band)
Per Session Cost: $300 - $500 CAD
Average Total Cost (6–12 Sessions): $1,800 - $6,000 CAD
Tattoos within 4–6 inches start to cover a larger area, typically requiring more precision and time. With this size, lighter colors and densely inked designs may need extra sessions. Modern laser techniques, like picosecond lasers, may reduce session numbers for these designs but will cost more per session.
6–8 Inches (Medium Tattoo, like a Forearm Tattoo or Small Ankle Band)
Per Session Cost: $400 - $700 CAD
Average Total Cost (6–12 Sessions): $2,400 - $8,400 CAD
Medium-sized tattoos covering areas like the forearm or ankle require more intensive laser time per session. If the tattoo has multiple colors or is highly detailed, session numbers and costs can increase. PicoSure lasers can be advantageous for color tattoos in this size but come at a premium.
8–10 Inches (Large Tattoo, like a Partial Sleeve or Shoulder Tattoo)
Per Session Cost: $600 - $900 CAD
Average Total Cost (6–12 Sessions): $3,600 - $10,800 CAD
Larger tattoos, such as those partially covering a shoulder or a small sleeve area, involve extensive laser work, which raises the session cost. Multicolored tattoos may need advanced lasers, further increasing the price. In this size range, clinics may provide bundled pricing or session discounts.
10–12 Inches (Extra-Large Tattoo, like a Half-Sleeve or Back Piece)
Per Session Cost: $800 - $1,200 CAD
Average Total Cost (6–15 Sessions): $4,800 - $18,000 CAD
Extra-large tattoos require significant laser time due to their size and often involve complex colors. The number of sessions will depend on the ink depth and color density, with lighter inks needing more sessions. Advanced laser technology, though costlier, is often recommended to achieve faster and more complete results.
Other Additional Costs
Consultation Fees
Consultations are an initial step in the tattoo removal process. A specialist assesses tattoo details like size, color, and depth to provide an accurate session estimate. In Mississauga, consultations may cost between $50 and $200, although some clinics offer this service for free if you proceed with treatment.
Topical Anesthetics or Local Anesthesia
Many clinics offer optional topical numbing creams or local anesthetics to manage pain during tattoo removal. These can cost $50 to $100 per session and are helpful for larger or more sensitive tattoos, making the procedure more comfortable.
Aftercare Products
After each session, specialized products such as healing creams, antibacterial ointments, and high-SPF sunscreen protect the treated area and support healing. These aftercare products cost between $20 and $50 and help prevent irritation, infection, and scarring.
Package Deals or Bundled Sessions
Many clinics offer discounts for prepaid packages or bundled sessions, particularly for large or complex tattoos requiring numerous treatments. This can reduce per-session costs by around 10% to 20%, making it a cost-effective option for full removal.
Advanced Laser Technology
Modern lasers, like the picosecond laser, are more effective at removing difficult colors and generally require fewer sessions. While they increase per-session costs by 20% to 30%, they can offer a quicker, more thorough removal, potentially saving on total costs.
Scar Treatments
Minor scarring can occur in some cases, and treatments like laser resurfacing or micro needling can improve skin texture. Scar treatments range from $100 to $500 per session and are optional, depending on the individual’s healing needs.
Skin Patch Testing
Individuals with sensitive skin may undergo a patch test, typically costing $50 to $100, to ensure compatibility with the laser. This one-time test helps avoid adverse reactions and confirms the safest approach for the individual’s skin type.
Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up visits, often included in treatment packages, allow specialists to monitor healing and adjust treatments as needed. If billed separately, follow-up assessments can cost $50 to $100, depending on the clinic.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Tattoo Removal
Here are factors affecting the cost of tattoo removal:
1. Tattoo Size and Complexity
Larger tattoos require more laser energy, time, and effort to treat, increasing the cost per session. Additionally, complex designs with intricate details may take longer to remove, further driving up the price. Simple, small tattoos are often the least expensive to remove, while larger, detailed pieces tend to be the most costly.
2. Ink Color and Type
Ink color significantly impacts removal costs. Dark colors, particularly black and blue, absorb laser energy well and typically fade faster, requiring fewer sessions. Lighter colors like green, yellow, and purple are harder to remove, so advanced laser technology or more sessions are needed to achieve complete removal. Tattoos with multiple colors usually increase both the session length and total cost.
3. Tattoo Age and Ink Depth
Older tattoos tend to fade over time, making them easier and faster to remove, while newer tattoos with fresh, dense ink require more sessions. The depth of the ink also plays a role—if the ink is deeply embedded in the skin, it will likely take additional treatments to break down the pigments completely, raising the total cost.
4. Skin Type and Tone
Skin type and tone affect how the laser interacts with the skin and ink. Individuals with lighter skin tones generally experience faster removal results, as there’s less risk of laser interference with natural skin pigments. Darker skin tones may need lower laser intensities to avoid pigmentation changes, potentially increasing the number of sessions needed and overall cost.
5. Laser Technology Used
The type of laser used is one of the largest cost factors. Traditional Q-switched lasers are effective but may require more sessions for complete removal. Picosecond lasers like PicoSure work faster and are particularly effective on stubborn ink colors. However, treatments with advanced laser technology come at a higher per-session cost due to their efficiency and precision.
6. Clinic Location and Expertise
Tattoo removal costs can also vary depending on the clinic’s location and the practitioner’s expertise. Clinics in urban or high-demand areas like Mississauga tend to have higher prices than those in smaller towns. Clinics with advanced equipment, specialized practitioners, and high client ratings may also charge more, as their expertise and technology often provide better and faster results.
7. Aftercare and Additional Sessions
Proper aftercare is crucial for effective tattoo removal and minimizes the risk of complications. Aftercare products, which are an additional expense, can help maintain skin health and optimize results. Additionally, some tattoos may require “touch-up” sessions to remove residual ink, especially for stubborn colors, which can increase the total cost.
Call Alternative Laser Health at (905) 451-4545 for an Accurate Tattoo Removal Cost
Call Alternative Laser Health at (905) 451-4545 for an accurate tattoo removal cost estimate tailored to your needs. Our skilled technicians use advanced laser technology to effectively remove tattoos of all shapes, sizes, and colors.
We offer a personalized approach to ensure comfort and satisfaction throughout removal. Book a free consultation today to discuss your options and get a precise cost estimate. Experience professional tattoo removal at one of Mississauga’s top clinics!
FAQs
How expensive is it to remove a tattoo?
The cost of tattoo removal varies widely depending on the size, color, and type of removal method. Laser removal is the most common technique, ranging from $100 to $1,000 per session. Small tattoos cost less, while larger tattoos or those with multiple colors require more sessions, potentially increasing the total cost to several thousand dollars. Complete removal of a medium-sized tattoo can cost between $1,500 and $5,000.
Can tattoos be 100% removed?
Yes, tattoos can often be removed almost entirely, especially if they are black or dark-colored. However, factors like ink color, tattoo age, depth, and skin type impact the likelihood of full removal. Dark colors like black and blue typically fade more completely, while lighter colors like green, yellow, and white are harder to remove and may leave a faint shadow or slight discoloration. Advanced lasers, like the PicoWay, offer better results with resistant colors.
How much does it cost to remove a 4-inch tattoo?
Removing a 4-inch tattoo with laser removal typically costs between $200 and $500 per session. Most tattoos require 6 to 10 sessions for near-complete removal, so the total cost might range from $1,200 to $5,000. The specific cost depends on the tattoo’s color, depth, and ink type.
How much does it cost to remove a 6-inch tattoo?
Removing a 6-inch tattoo with laser treatment costs $400 to $1,000 per session. The total price depends on the tattoo’s complexity, with a full course of treatment potentially costing between $2,500 and $7,500. Lighter or brightly colored tattoos may require more sessions, which increases the cost.
How much does tattoo removal cost in Canada?
In Canada, laser tattoo removal typically costs $100 to $500 per session for small tattoos and up to $1,000 for larger ones. Complete removal generally requires multiple sessions, so the total price could range from $1,000 to over $5,000, depending on the tattoo size, colors, and removal method used. Prices vary by city and clinic, with metropolitan areas like Toronto and Vancouver often being more expensive than smaller cities.
Can black tattoos be fully removed?
Yes, black tattoos are generally the easiest to remove completely because black ink absorbs all laser wavelengths. Most black tattoos can be removed with minimal scarring or shadowing, especially with modern laser technology. The number of sessions required depends on the tattoo’s age, depth, and density, but full removal is highly achievable.
Is tattoo removal very painful?
Tattoo removal can be painful, often described as a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin or experiencing heat and stinging. Pain tolerance varies, and sensitive areas may hurt more. Some clinics offer numbing creams or local anesthesia to reduce discomfort. PicoSure lasers are reported to be slightly less painful than older Q-switched lasers, though pain is still subjective and varies per person.
Is tattoo removal worth it?
Whether tattoo removal is "worth it" depends on personal goals, the significance of the tattoo, and expectations. For many, removing an unwanted tattoo improves confidence, enhances job prospects, or allows for new tattoo designs in the same area. Laser technology has advanced significantly, making removal more effective and accessible. While it can be costly and time-consuming, those who regret their tattoos or feel they no longer align with their identity often find the investment worthwhile.
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