How many sessions does it take to remove a tattoo for a cover-up?

Author: Mr. Devante Kunde  |  Last update: Friday, July 25, 2025

How Many Tattoo Removal Sessions Will You Need For a Tattoo Coverup? Most artists only need up to 5 sessions of laser removal before they can start to cover up old work. Multiple variables dictate the number of sessions, including skin type, ink colors, and the amount of ink present (how old it is).

How many sessions to remove a tattoo for a cover up?

Sad_Dependent had a good answer it depends what you want. For a more general answer take average 90% removal of 8-12 sessions and cut it in half for appropriate cover up. Again it depends what you want. Obviously wont work for a linework cover up with a lot of negative space.

How many sessions for a tattoo cover up?

Sad_Dependent had a good answer it depends what you want. For a more general answer take average 90% removal of 8-12 sessions and cut it in half for appropriate cover up. Again it depends what you want. Obviously wont work for a linework cover up with a lot of negative space.

How long to fade a tattoo for cover up?

A normal laser treatment tattoo removal process will take about 12-15 sessions to completely remove the old tattoo. Fading a tattoo for a cover up should only require about 3-4 sessions, and will cost a fraction of the price of full removal.

How long does it take to remove a tattoo cover?

You will need to keep it covered for at least 24 hours to allow it to heal significantly to prevent infection. Once the tattoo has been completed it will be covered by the artist. This will need to be left untouched for 4--8 hours then it can be gently washed.

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Can I remove cover up tattoo?

Luckily, laser tattoo removal can fade existing ink particles safely and effectively. Laser tattoo removal is not only for complete removal, although we're great at that too. Laser tattoo removal also aids many tattoo artists and enthusiasts who are looking to get a better result out of their tattoo cover-up.

Do cover-up tattoos take longer?

Successful cover ups also take longer.

The cover up process involves both lightening and darkening the underlying shape to create new shapes over it. The skin can only take so much at one time without causing damage, and frequently with cover ups more is required than can be done at once.

How many laser removal sessions for a cover-up?

On average, most clients need 5 to 12 treatments to remove their tattoo entirely and 3 to 4 treatments for significant fading for a cover-up. During your free consultation, Salvation Laser Center will assess your tattoo and determine the number of treatments needed.

What is the fastest way to fade a tattoo?

However, professional laser removal is the most effective and fastest solution. Factors such as sun exposure, skin elasticity, and the body's natural immune response contribute to this process. UV rays, in particular, can degrade the ink pigments, causing them to fade more quickly.

How many treatments does tattoo removal take?

The average number of sessions necessary for complete tattoo removal is 6-10, although it can be more than 10, depending on certain factors, which are described below.

Are tattoo cover-ups more expensive?

Keep in mind that a cover up tattoo might cost more than the same design on a fresh patch of skin. This cost is because the artist will need to strategically plan the design and the types of ink they used based on the original tattoo, which will take more labor and more time.

Are tattoo cover-ups more painful?

The pain level during a cover up tattoo session can be similar to that of getting a new tattoo. However, individual pain tolerance varies, and some people may find the process of covering up an existing tattoo slightly more uncomfortable due to the additional layers of ink and the possible presence of scar tissue.

How many sessions does a cover-up tattoo take?

Tip 5: Coverup Tattoos May Take Several Sessions

We often find that in doing coverup tattoos one to three sessions may be needed to complete the initial design and for touchups. It's possible that once the ink has settled, the old design may be somewhat visible and with another pass, the problem can be remedied.

When should you stop covering a tattoo?

Remove your bandage after 3-12 hours, and clean it with mild soap and warm water as in Method 1. After washing, gently pat it dry with a clean cloth or paper towel, then allow it to air dry for 15 minutes.

How many sessions to remove a black ink tattoo?

Dark Ink Colors: On average, it may take 5-10 sessions to remove or significantly fade dark ink tattoos. Medium Ink Colors: Medium ink colors typically require 6-12 sessions for effective removal or fading.

Which is better, tattoo removal or cover up?

Laser tattoo removal is a lot more expensive than a cover-up tattoo. However, if you can't find a cover-up tattoo design you love, laser tattoo removal is the best choice.

How long to wait after tattoo removal for cover up?

It's important to maintain great skin care and avoid scarring. So we recommend waiting for a minimum of 6 weeks from your last laser tattoo removal treatment before getting your new tattoo. If you can be patient, waiting even longer will be very beneficial for you.

Can you remove a cover-up tattoo?

For cover-up tattoos, it is important to use a laser that can target a wide range of colours. Q-switched lasers are typically used for tattoo removal, but some newer devices, like picosecond lasers, are effective for removing a wider range of colours.

How much does it cost to remove a tattoo?

Per session, Laser Tattoo Removal in India costs around Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000, with an average cost being Rs 3500.

Can tattoos be 100% removed?

It is difficult to give a one-size-fits-all answer to this often asked question, but broadly speaking, yes a tattoo can be 100% removed so long as your immune system is working effectively and you follow our sun-safe aftercare guidelines.

How painful is tattoo removal?

Depending on what type of tattoo removal you choose, there may be varying levels of pain or discomfort. Some people say that removal feels the same as getting a tattoo, while others liken it to the feeling of a rubber band being snapped against their skin. Your skin may be sore after the procedure.

How soon after a tattoo can you get removal?

Our experts recommend waiting until your tattoo has completely healed which can take around six to eight weeks after having the tattoo before you start your removal sessions. This will help avoid damage to your skin.

What are the disadvantages of a cover-up tattoo?

Cons:
  • They are usually more expensive than a new tattoo.
  • The cover-up might not look as good as a new tattoo.
  • Finding an artist who can do a good job can be challenging.

What tattoo is best for a cover-up?

The best subject matter for cover ups tend to be things with lots of texture and heavy lighting effects to create heavy shadows, such as underwater scenes, flowers, organic images, Japanese imagery, skulls, organic style bio mech.

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