That tattoo seemed like a brilliant idea at the time. A name, a symbol, a design that meant something on a specific afternoon years ago. But tastes change, chapters close, and what once felt right can start to feel like it belongs to a different version of you. If you've found yourself covering it up, angling away from photos, or simply wishing it wasn't there, you're in good company — surveys suggest up to 75% of people regret at least one tattoo.
The good news is that unwanted ink no longer has to be permanent. At Novara Clinic in Cookham, we offer professional laser tattoo removal for clients across Maidenhead, Cookham, Marlow and the wider Thames Valley — whether you want a tattoo gone completely or simply lightened ahead of a cover-up. Here's an honest look at how it works, what to expect, and whether it's right for you.
Laser tattoo removal works by delivering short, high-energy pulses of light into the skin. At Novara Clinic, we use a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (the Dynamix system) that targets the tattoo ink and shatters it into tiny particles. Your body's immune system then gradually clears those particles away over the following weeks.
The most important thing to understand is this: the laser doesn't erase the tattoo on the spot. It breaks down the ink so your body can clear it. That's why removal is a gradual process spread across several sessions, rather than a single appointment.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer, because every tattoo is different. The number of sessions you'll need depends on a number of factors:
Most tattoos can be fully removed or significantly faded with a course of treatment. At your consultation, we'll assess your tattoo and give you a realistic, honest plan — including an estimate of roughly how many sessions to expect — so there are no surprises.
Let's address the elephant in the room: yes, there is some discomfort. Most people compare the sensation to the snap of an elastic band against the skin, or the quick sting of hot oil from a frying pan. If you've had semi-permanent makeup removed, it feels very similar, as both use laser technology to break down pigment.
Some areas are more sensitive than others — the ribs, fingers and ankles tend to be more tender, while fleshier areas are more comfortable. To keep you as relaxed as possible, we can prescribe numbing cream beforehand and use cooling techniques on the skin throughout your treatment. Your comfort genuinely matters to us, and we'll never rush you.
Most tattoos can be significantly faded or fully removed, but results do vary depending on factors such as ink type, colour, age, size and pigmentation. Black and dark inks clear most predictably; some lighter and more stubborn colours can take longer.
One important note: we cannot treat tanned or fake-tanned skin. The laser targets pigment, so a tan affects both safety and results. You'll need to come to your sessions with natural, untanned skin.
Yes — and it's an essential step, not an optional one. At least a week before your first treatment, we perform a patch test to ensure your skin reacts well to the laser. You can book this through our website as a laser consultation with a patch test, and the cost is redeemable against your treatment, so it's not money lost.
Pricing depends on the size of the tattoo. As a guide:
Because removal is a course of treatment rather than a single session, we'll talk you through the likely overall investment at your consultation so you can plan with confidence.
Your body does most of the work between sessions, so supporting it helps. Following your aftercare properly allows the skin to heal faster, which in turn helps the ink fade more efficiently. The simple things make the biggest difference: stay well hydrated, avoid smoking, keep your circulation healthy, and protect the treated area from sun exposure. We'll give you full aftercare guidance after each visit.
You're in control. You can stop once you've reached a result you're happy with — whether that's complete removal or enough fading to allow for a cover-up. We'd always recommend talking it through with us first, so we can advise based on how your skin and tattoo are responding.
If unwanted ink has been on your mind, the first step is simple. Book a free consultation with Claire at Novara Clinic, and we'll give you honest, realistic advice personalised to your tattoo and your skin — no pressure, no jargon.
Book your free consultation online or get in touch to find out more about laser tattoo removal in Berkshire.
Novara Clinic provides advanced medical aesthetics, skincare and laser treatments in Cookham, Berkshire, serving Maidenhead, Marlow and the surrounding Thames Valley. Run by Claire Brooks.