Laser tattoo removal

At OPIA, we use a modern, “Picosecond” Laser technology machine. This has a shorter pulse duration – meaning it is in the skin for less time, causing less damage than older technologies. We operate our machine at two different wavelengths that target black/grey, red/orange/pink.

We operate our machine at two different wavelengths that target either black/grey, red/orange/pink. We can successfully remove these colours as well as all permanent makeup eyebrows, and even black permanent makeup eyeliner.

The number of sessions required can never be determined or guaranteed by your technician. Factors that impact how many sessions you need include but are not limited to: technique of the artist, amount of pigment, number of tattooing sessions done on the area, type of pigment/inks used, your health, your skin’s reaction, and your aftercare.

Full removal of pigment can be achieved. However, it cannot be guaranteed. There may be scarring from the tattoo that holds stubborn pigment residue.

This depends greatly on the technique of your tattoo artist when doing the tattoo, your aftercare from the tattoo, as well as your aftercare throughout the removal sessions. Ideally the quality of the skin is not changed through the removal process, and your result will mostly be determined only by the impact of the tattoo itself. You may have some scarring, for example. Methods like microneedling or other laser treatments can help reduce the appearance of residual scars.

What will my skin/tattoo look like right after the Laser Tattoo Removal Treatments?

You can expect to experience some common immediate effects including: redness and swelling,bruising, sensitivity to light. The “Frosting” effect may also occur, this is where the tattoo has a white appearance after the service, however this does not last longer than an hour and will soon look like how it was before the session. The lightning and removal of pigment happens over the following 6-12 weeks as your lymphatic system flushes the pigment. 

OPIA does provide numbing for each client. At your first appointment you will sit with numbing applied for 30 minutes before the service is completed. You will then be given a packet of numbing to apply yourself 30 minutes before your next appointment. You will be instructed on how to apply the numbing to achieve the greatest effectiveness.

Without numbing, Laser Tattoo Removal can be fairly painful, however it is over quickly. Clients describe it as a hot elastic snapping on your skin. However, the numbing does impact your comfort, and clients tend to say it doesn’t hurt more than getting the tattoo itself.

If a dressing is applied to the area, leave it alone for 6-12 hours. After which you will cleanse the area with a mild soap or cleanser. You will be provided a healing ointment to use at this point, and at any point throughout the following week as needed for comfort. You can expect the swelling and redness to subside after a few hours in most cases. However if you experience bruising that can last 1-2 weeks. Itchiness, flaking and scabbing may also occur, and it is very important not to pick. Sun sensitivity of the area will require you to keep the area covered under loose clothing or protected with SPF for 30 days. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours after the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding or bruising. Avoid hot steamy showers, baths, swimming, and saunas, for the first 48 hours as well.

You must not be on antibiotics for 2 weeks before your appointment. 

Avoid UV/Sun exposure, as suntanned or sunburnt skin cannot be treated.

Drink plenty of water leading up to your appointment, and after. Staying hydrated is key as it helps the lymphatic system flush the pigment.

Avoid blood thinners for 72 hours before the appointment.

For body tattoos, shave the area no more than 12 hours before your appointment.

Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. The treated area may be wrapped in a bandage when you leave and wearing loose clothing will make it easier for you.

Make your tattoo accessible for your technician by wearing clothing or layers of clothing you can remove or move easily out of the way.

Must not have sunburned or suntanned skin, nor any active skin condition in the area to be treated. Must not be on antibiotics for 2 weeks prior to the appointment. Must not be on accutane for the last 6 months. Must not be pregnant or breastfeeding. Must not have surgical pins or plates in the area to be treated. Must not be undergoing chemo or cancer treatments. If you are on any prescribed medications, speak with your health care physician to make sure laser tattoo removal is appropriate for you at this time.

Risks include: infection, blistering, swelling, redness, bruising, bleeding, itchiness, scabbing, tenderness/soreness, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation.

Rescheduling / Cancellation Policy

Please understand this is a “by appointment” business where only a couple of procedures can be done in a day due to the nature of the intricate procedure and standards I hold. I take my time with each client to ensure VIP treatment & results. Please value my time as I value yours. 

NO rescheduling is permitted within:

72 hours for PERMANENT MAKEUP appointments.

48 hours for NON-PERMANENT BEAUTY & LASER appointments.

Rescheduling outside this time frame will result in a loss of your deposit, and a new deposit will be required to book a new appointment.

“No Show” : When no notice is given for a missed appointment, the balance for the missed appointment and an additional deposit must be paid in order to re-book.

Please be punctual. All arrivals later than 10 minutes will be considered a “No Show”

Deposits are always non-refundable. No exceptions. This includes if you present with any contraindications or have not followed the pre-care for your appointment.

Deposits are paid via PayPal or E-Transfer at time of booking, and the balance will be due at your appointment via DEBIT, CASH or E-Transfer. Sorry, no Credit Cards.

Note: if you are trying to book online but cannot pay your deposit with PayPal, email ashely@opiabrowsandbeauty.com to make alternate arrangments. 

Please be punctual. All arrivals later than 10 minutes will be considered a “No Show”. 

If you know you will be a little late and give notice that is appreciated. However, past a certain amount of time your appointment will still be lost.

Exceptions will not be made and will result in a cancellation.