Tattoo Removal Pain: How Bad Is It Really?

Tattoo removal pain is one of the most frequently asked questions about laser treatments. Understandably, no one wants to be surprised.

So let's face it.

Yes, laser tattoo removal can be sensitive. But for most people, it's well-tolerated and short-lasting.

In this comprehensive guide you will read:

• How it really feels

• Or is it worse than tattooing

• The pain scale per body part

• What affects sensitivity

• How to make treatment more comfortable

• What clients in Amsterdam North experience

How Much Does Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Laser tattoo removal usually feels like:

• Quick, hot pinpricks

• An elastic band that taps against the skin

• Short heat flashes

Most clients rate their pain between 4 and 7 on a scale of 10 .

Important to know: The treatment often only takes a few minutes per tattoo. It's intense but short .

This is exactly why many people say afterwards: “It actually wasn't that bad.”

Is Tattoo Removal More Painful Than Tattooing?

This is a high-volume question.

The difference:

Tattooing

• Long-term repetition

• Deep penetration

• For hours on end

Laser removal

• Shorter sessions

• Sharper but fast impulses

• Less long-term stress

Many clients experience laser as:

Shorter but brighter and therefore ultimately more tolerable.

Because a session is usually completed within a few minutes, it feels less psychologically demanding.

Pain Scale Tattoo Removal by Body Part

Sensitivity varies greatly from area to area. Areas with thinner skin and more nerve endings are more sensitive.

Below is an overview:

Body part	Average Pain Score (1–10)	Why?
Upper arm	3–5	More muscle and fat
Shoulder	3–5	Thicker skin surface
Calf	4–6	Average nerve density
Forearm	5–7	Thinner skin
Single	6–7	Less fat layer
Wrist	6–8	Lots of nerves
Ribs	7–9	Thin skin, bone close by
Feet	7–9	Many nerve endings
Fingers	8–9	Very sensitive

Important: pain perception remains personal.

What Affects How Much Tattoo Removal Pains?

1. Size of the tattoo

Larger tattoos last longer per session.

2. Place on the body

As described above.

3. Color of the ink

Black ink often reacts faster to the laser. Some colors require more sessions.

4. Your pain threshold

Everyone experiences pain differently.

5. Stress level

Tension can increase pain intensity.

How is Pain Reduced During Treatment?

In professional clinics we work with:

• Skin cooling during laser treatment

• Short, efficient sessions

• Modern equipment

• Experienced practitioners

With clients in Amsterdam North We notice that clear explanation beforehand already removes a lot of tension — and thus also reduces the perception of pain.

A relaxed client often experiences less discomfort.

How does the skin feel after tattoo removal?

Immediately after the treatment the skin may:

• To feel warm

• To be light red

• To be slightly swollen

• Being sensitive as with mild sunburn

This usually goes away within a few hours to days.

Most clients can immediately resume their daily activities.

How does the skin feel after tattoo removal?

Immediately after the treatment the skin may:

• To feel warm

• To be light red

• To be slightly swollen

• Being sensitive as with mild sunburn

This usually goes away within a few hours to days.

Most clients can immediately resume their daily activities.

Is Tattoo Removal Painful Worth It?

For many people, yes.

Reasons why clients choose removal:

• A name from the past

• An impulsive choice

• A tattoo that no longer fits

• Professional reasons

• A fresh start

The temporary sensitivity often does not outweigh the result.

Is Tattoo Removal Very Painful?

Laser tattoo removal is usually experienced as a short, sharp sensation, similar to a rubber band against the skin. The pain score is typically between 4 and 7 on a scale of 1 to 10. The treatment usually takes only a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tattoo Removal Pain

Is tattoo removal always painful?

Yes, some form of sensitivity is usually experienced. The intensity varies from person to person and from one part of the body to another.

How long does the pain last after tattoo removal?

During the treatment, there will be a few minutes of discomfort. Afterwards, there will usually be some mild sensitivity for a few hours.

Can I use anesthesia?

In some cases, a numbing cream can be discussed during the intake.

Is tattoo removal safe?

When performed with professional equipment and experience, laser tattoo removal is a safe method.

Is it worse than tattooing?

For most people, it's shorter but a bit sharper than tattooing. Because it's done faster, it's often considered more tolerable. Questions or to book an appointment ?

Book a consultation with Lana Skyn , so we can answer all your questions in detail and personally.