Tattoo Removal - City Clinic Marbella

Aesthetic▸Laser Treatments

Tattoo Removal

Tattoo removal is a precise laser-based aesthetic procedure to fade or remove unwanted permanent ink from the skin, helping restore a clearer, more natural surface. At City Clinic, we use advanced laser systems and tailored protocols to deliver safe, effective results.

Doctors & Specialists:

Dr.Javier Pérez Diez

Tattoos embed pigment particles deep within the skin. Removing them involves laser pulses that break the ink into smaller fragments, which the body’s immune system gradually clears. The number of sessions depends on tattoo size, colour, depth and location. At City Clinic, we conduct a thorough assessment, select the appropriate laser wavelength and plan the sessions to minimise risk, optimise outcome and support your skin throughout the process.

Indications

Unwanted tattoos

Change of style or life situation

Professional or social reasons

Allergic or inflammatory reaction

Area preparation for new tattoo

Causes

Permanent ink in dermis

Ageing or sun exposure altering appearance

Regret or personal preference

Desire for tattoo redesign

Treatment Details

Procedure Steps

1

Preparation of skin: cleaning, shaving if necessary, application of topical anaesthetic if required.

2

Laser treatment: targeted pulses delivered to break down ink particles; cooling or protective measures used to enhance comfort.

3

Aftercare: application of soothing gel or dressings, instructions on sun avoidance and skin protection.

Duration:

10-60 minutes depending on tattoo size and complexity.

Number of Sessions:

Typically 3-10 sessions (or more for complex tattoos) spaced 4–8+ weeks apart.

Recovery / Downtime:

Minimal; expect slight redness, mild swelling or temporary sensitivity.

Pain Level:

Low to moderate; many describe the sensation like a snapping rubber band; topical anaesthetic or cooling can increase comfort.

Pre-Treatment:

Avoid sun exposure, tanning or self-tanners on the area for at least 2 weeks before treatment.
Do not apply heavy creams or makeup on the day of your appointment.
Inform the clinic about any recent skin procedures, medications or skin conditions.

Post-Treatment:

Keep the treated area clean, dry and protected; avoid picking or scratching.
Use gentle moisturiser and high-SPF sun protection on the area.
Avoid heat sources (saunas, hot baths) and heavy exercise for 24-48 hours or as advised.
Attend all scheduled sessions and monitor changes.

Results

Expected Outcome

Short-term: Visible fading of the tattoo ink, smoother skin surface, reduced visibility of design.
Long-term: Progressive removal or near-complete absence of the tattoo, restoring the natural skin appearance and giving the flexibility for future treatments or new artwork.

How Long
Results Last? 

Permanent — once ink particles are broken down and removed by the body, the tattoo will not return. However results depend on skin type, tattoo specifics and after-care.

Risks & Considerations

Possible Side Effects 

• Redness, mild swelling, blistering or scabbing in treated zone. • Temporary pigment changes (lightening or darkening of skin). • Rare risk of scarring if after-care is not followed or pigment is deeply entrenched

Contraindications (who should avoid it)

• Active skin infection, open wound or recent sunburn/tan in treatment area
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding (depending on clinic protocols)
• Use of certain photosensitising medications or history of keloid scarring

Safety Notes

City Clinic uses medical-grade lasers, certified technicians, and rigorous safety protocols. Each tattoo removal plan is customised based on ink type, skin characteristics and patient history.

Pricing

Price Range (approximate)

Factors Affecting Price

• Tattoo size, number of colours and ink density
• Number of sessions expected and interval between them

Insurance Coverage

Typically considered cosmetic; most insurance does not cover unless there is a medical reason (e.g., allergic reaction to ink).

FAQs

Does tattoo removal hurt?

Discomfort is minimal; many patients describe mild snapping or tingling. Cooling and anaesthetics make it well tolerated.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on tattoo size, age, ink colours and your skin; most need between 3–10 sessions, sometimes more.

Will my skin be scar-free afterwards?

Yes, when performed correctly and after-care is followed, most patients heal without visible scarring.

Can all colours be removed?

Dark colours (black, blue) are easier; some colours (green, yellow) may require more sessions and bear residual traces.

Is the tattoo removal permanent?

Yes — once ink is fragmented and cleared, it will not return; however new tattoos or stem from remaining pigment may require further action.

Related Treatments

Moles & Warts Removal

Benign skin lesions such as aesthetic moles, warts, fibromas, seborrheic keratoses, angiomas, or milia are common alterations that, while not harmful to health, can cause aesthetic concern, discomfort from friction, or evolve over time. At City Clinic Marbella, we perform their removal safely, precisely, and with minimal invasiveness, achieving excellent cosmetic results and quick recovery.

Scar Removal

Our scar treatment protocol focuses on improving the texture, color, and depth of scars caused by acne, injury, or surgical procedures. At City Clinic Marbella, we combine advanced skin regeneration therapies such as microneedling, laser resurfacing, and medical skincare to smooth and rejuvenate the skin effectively.

Acne Treatment

Our acne treatment protocol focuses on reducing breakouts, controlling excess oil, and improving the overall clarity and health of the skin. At City Clinic Marbella, we use a combination of advanced lasers, medical-grade skincare, and professional extractions to treat active acne and help prevent future flare-ups.

Facial Pigmentation

Our facial pigmentation treatment targets sunspots, age spots, melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and uneven tone to help restore a brighter, clearer complexion. At City Clinic Marbella, we design custom protocols using advanced laser technology and medical-grade skincare to reduce discoloration safely and effectively.