What is Laser Tattoo Removal? 

The Coachlight Clinic in West Des Moines is one of the only practices in Iowa offering laser tattoo removal, making it one of the busiest clinics in the Midwest. Recent studies estimate that 15% of adults have tattoos, with approximately 50% of tattoo recipients wanting them removed within ten years. Coachlight Clinic in West Des Moines uses the Q-Plus C Quanta Laser®, the Gold Standard in laser tattoo removal. This high-performance, three-wavelength Q-switched system delivers light in ultra-short, high-peak energy pulses, shattering pigment particles and allowing them to be eliminated by the body. With faster, less painful, and more effective treatments, Coachlight Clinic & Spa provides exceptional laser tattoo removal in Des Moines. 

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work? 

The Q-Plus C technology employs high-intensity light pulses with ultra-short durations of nanoseconds to effectively disintegrate tattoo ink into minuscule fragments. These fragmented pieces are then safely eliminated by the body. The light is selectively absorbed by the tattoo ink while leaving the surrounding skin tissue unharmed, ensuring a professional and precise tattoo removal procedure. 

Benefits of a Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment 

Laser technology finds its most common application in tattoo removal. The utilization of lasers offers several benefits, ensuring the safe lightening of tattoos with minimal risk of undesirable side effects such as burning or scarring. Laser treatment efficiently removes or lightens tattoo ink with the fewest procedures, catering to all types of tattoo inks, ranging from dark tones to vibrant colors. Moreover, our laser treatment solutions are tailored to suit individual skin types. In contrast to alternative or do-it-yourself tattoo removal methods, laser tattoo removal generally obviates the requirement for anesthesia. Our team employs laser technology to lighten tattoo ink with minimal pain or discomfort, consistently yielding exceptional results. 

Laser Tattoo Removal vs. Other Treatments 

Laser tattoo removal in the greater Des Moines area is a noninvasive technique that safely penetrates deep into the skin, effectively shattering ink while preserving the integrity of the skin. Laser technology is widely used for tattoo removal, offering a superior alternative to dermabrasion and surgical excision, which may entail pain and risks. With advanced technology, laser tattoo removal breaks down ink particles in the skin without compromising the surrounding tissue. 

Laser Tattoo Removal Using the Q-Plus C Quanta®

Coachlight is one of the only practices in Iowa to offer laser tattoo removal, and we have one of the busiest laser tattoo clinics in the Midwest. In a recent study, it is estimated that 15% of adults have tattoos. It is estimated that 50% of those receiving tattoos will want to have them removed within 10 years of application. Coachlight offers tattoo removal with the Q-Plus C Quanta Laser®.

Q-Plus C Quanta Laser is considered the Gold Standard in laser tattoo removal. It is the highest-performance Q-switched laser on the market and it is the only one of its kind in Des Moines. It is the ONLY true three-wavelength Q-switched system.

This laser delivers light of specific wavelengths in ultra-short, very high peak energy pulses which are absorbed by the pigment in the tattoo and result in an acoustic shockwave. The shockwave shatters the pigment particles causing them to break into fragments small enough for removal by the body. These tiny particles are then eliminated by the body.

Mixed wavelengths allow for the treatment of multiple ink colors. These three wavelengths (Nd: YAG 1064nm for dark blue and black ink, 532nm for red, orange, yellow, and purple ink, & Ruby 694nm for blue, sky blue, black, green, and violet ink) achieve the highest possible power, producing remarkable results.

The addition of the 694nm ruby laser to the Q-Plus C platform allows us to treat the blues and greens which are resistant to other Nd: YAG lasers.

Affordable. Effective. Safe.

Laser technology is most commonly used in tattoo removal. Using a laser helps ensure:

  • Safe lightening of tattoos with a low risk of side effects, such as burning or scarring of skin
  • Efficient removal or lightening of tattoo ink with the fewest amount of treatments
  • Removal of all tattoo inks—from dark tones to bright colors
  • Treatments that fit every individual’s unique skin type

Our team uses laser technology to lighten tattoo ink with minimal pain or discomfort, and with results that are unmatched when compared to alleged alternative or do-it-yourself tattoo-removal methods.

Lasers have improved our ability to treat skin conditions and improve the appearance of the skin. We offer the latest technology in laser treatments, including skin resurfacing, skin tightening, tattoo removal, hair removal, and reduction of excessive sweating.

All laser treatments at Coachlight are performed by a highly qualified team member that specializes in lasers and medical aesthetics. Unlike many other “laser centers” that do not have an onsite supervising physician, at Coachlight your comfort and safety are of the utmost importance. Coachlight is the only medical aesthetics practice in Iowa that has a quadruple board-certified plastic surgeon, via Dr. Robbins of Des Moines Plastic Surgery, as it’s medical director. Our team is known for their experience and access to ongoing and next-level training in aesthetics.

Please call our office at 515.221.4905 for a complimentary tattoo consultation. Our providers will discuss the process with you and answer any of your questions. We will also provide you with a quote for the cost of your laser tattoo removal treatments!

Schedule a FREE Laser Tattoo Consultation

Before & After Gallery

laser tattoo removal before and afters

Before, During, and After

What To Expect Before a Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment 

Before treatment, you will receive a complimentary tattoo consultation. During this consultation, we will discuss the process with you and address any questions you may have. You will also receive instructions to avoid sun exposure and discontinue specific medications and skincare products. 

What To Expect During a Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment 

The laser tattoo removal process begins with cleaning and disinfecting the area to be treated. Next, the practitioner uses the laser device to target the ink, breaking it down into smaller particles that can be absorbed by the body. Most people describe the sensation as a rubber band snapping against their skin. Laser tattoo removal generally doesn’t require anesthesia. Our team utilizes laser technology to lighten tattoo ink with minimal pain or discomfort. 

What To Expect After a Dysport Treatment

Following tattoo removal treatment, the affected area may exhibit redness, swelling, and irritation, which can be effectively managed with over-the-counter analgesics. The skin may develop blisters or scabs in the subsequent days, indicating successful removal of the tattoo ink. Keep the area clean and dry and avoid strenuous activity that may irritate the skin. As the healing process ensues, the treated area will gradually fade, blending with the surrounding skin. 

Laser Tattoo Removal Cancellation Policy

A $50 nonrefundable deposit is required at the time of scheduling a Laser Tattoo Removal Appointment. If you do not show up for your scheduled appointment or cancel the appointment less than 48 hours prior, you will NOT be refunded your $50 deposit, nor will it be used toward ANY future treatments.

Arrange Your Consultation

At Coachlight, we offer a full line of laser services using the latest in laser technology. These treatments are performed under the direct supervision of a board-certified plastic surgeon.

We understand that not all patients desire cosmetic surgery, so we offer a wide scope of laser services within Coachlight. This allows experienced staff to select the most appropriate and effective treatment for each and every patient.

For a complete evaluation and a thorough discussion of laser tattoo removal, Des Moines patients can call Coachlight at 515.221.4905 to arrange a complimentary cosmetic consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

The number of treatments needed for laser tattoo removal depends on various factors, including the tattoo’s depth, color, and ink composition. Colors like black, red, dark orange, and dark blue usually respond quicker to treatments, while green, purple, yellow, light orange, white, and light blue may require more sessions. It is recommended to schedule treatments every 4-8 weeks. 

Removing a professionally applied tattoo typically involves a sequential series of treatments, spaced at intervals of 4 to 6 weeks to achieve fading. Some tattoos may need more than ten treatment sessions. The efficacy of laser tattoo removal is influenced by the depth, color, and quantity of ink and the tattoo’s autonomic location. 

The success of laser tattoo removal is influenced by several variables. Factors such as the depth, color, and amount of ink, as well as the tattoo’s location on the body, all determine the speed at which the tattoo can be removed. 

Patients may encounter a slight sensation resembling a rubber band snap during the procedure. Most patients do not need the application of numbing cream or local anesthesia injection. The Q-Plus C equipment at Coachlight Clinic & Spa operates at a high speed, mitigating a significant portion of the discomfort. Numbing cream and local anesthesia injections are provided as an option for individuals requiring additional comfort measures. 

Redness, tenderness, and swelling subside within a day or two after treatment. Blisters usually develop within 24 hours of treatment. Scabs, bruising, and blistering may take a week or longer to heal. Hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation are the result of imbalanced melanin production after laser treatment. Hyperpigmentation occurs when excessive melanin is produced, causing the treated skin to become darker than the natural tone. Hypopigmentation results in bleached skin due to decreased melanin. Both conditions are usually temporary and naturally resolve with time. 

Laser technology is primarily employed for tattoo removal, offering customized treatments suitable for all skin types. 

Scarring from a Q-switched laser treatment is very uncommon. However, it is common for tattoos to have pre-existing scarring from their application. All laser treatments at Coachlight Clinic & Spa are performed by highly qualified staff members. Unlike many other “laser centers” without an onsite supervising physician, we prioritize your comfort and safety. 

Partial tattoo removal is possible. Advanced laser technology can now target specific areas of the tattoo, leaving the rest untouched. 

Various factors determine the cost of laser tattoo removal treatments. These include the size, age, location, and pigment composition of the tattoo and the number of treatment sessions necessary for complete removal. 

Several tattoo artists recommend their clients undergo a minimum number of laser treatments to lighten an existing tattoo prior to getting a new one. This practice significantly diminishes the risk of the old tattoo showing through the new one. 
 
A minimum of 2-4 treatments can typically lighten an existing tattoo. However, the number of treatments necessary depends on the color composition of the existing tattoo. If certain colors are resilient to fading, additional treatments may be imperative. 

To be eligible for treatment, individuals must be over the age of 18. However, those with diabetes or a compromised immune system may not meet the requirements. It is advisable to consult with a licensed professional to determine suitability for laser tattoo removal. 

After getting a tattoo, you can have it removed within six to eight weeks, depending on the size, placement, and complexity of the design. This allows for proper healing of the skin. 

Mixed wavelengths allow for the treatment of multiple ink colors. These three wavelengths achieve the highest possible power and produce remarkable results: Nd: YAG 1064nm (for dark blue and black ink), 532nm (for red, orange, yellow, and purple ink), and Ruby 694nm (for blue, sky blue, black, green, and violet ink). The Q-Plus C platform has been enhanced with the addition of the 694nm ruby laser, allowing us to effectively treat blues and greens, which are typically resistant to other Nd: YAG lasers. 

Amateur “street tattoos” and traumatic tattoos can often be eliminated with fewer treatments. For a more precise estimation of your treatment plan, it is advisable to consult our skilled staff in West Des Moines or Ankeny for a complimentary evaluation of your tattoo. 

One rule to remember is to avoid picking or scratching scabs that form after treatment. While it may be tempting to remove them, doing so can disrupt the healing process and cause scarring or infection. Instead, focus on keeping the area clean and moisturized. Wear loose-fitting clothing that won’t rub against the treated area and protect it from direct sunlight. Following these aftercare tips will help ensure a successful tattoo removal and leave you with the clear skin you desire. 

What People Are Saying

Coachlight is known as a destination of beauty and wellness and Iowa’s top medical aesthetic provider, serving guests with Des Moines Plastic Surgery for over 15 years.

Read Our Reviews

Our Locations

google map location

West Des Moines, IA

6420 Coachlight Dr #200, West Des Moines, IA 50266
(515) 221-4905

Book Now
google map location

Ankeny, IA

225 NW 18th St Suite 109, Ankeny, IA 50023
(515) 513-6262

Book Now

Questions?
Send Us A Message!

Name(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.