Does tattoo removal treatment hurt?
The RevLite SI and the MedLite C6 from Hoya ConBio USA laser used at Expired provides a more comfortable experience than other laser machines; however, it is still uncomfortable. The laser pulses have been described as having a similar sensation as being flicked by a rubber band. This discomfort is easily managed.
Our technicians manage this discomfort by utilising Zimmer Cryo cold air machine to supply a constant flow of cold air to the treated area, providing effective relief before, during and after treatment.
Can I use Numbing Cream?
Topical anaesthetic (numbing) creams can be very effective for pain management and are especially helpful for anyone feeling anxious about discomfort. We welcome the use of numbing cream, however, due to the Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 2008, we’re unable to supply numbing cream at the studio.
For best results, apply the cream generously to the area before your appointment and cover it with cling wrap. Your technician will remove this prior to treatment.
We recommend Cry Baby Numbing Cream, which many of our clients find effective. Click Here
How long will a treatment take?
Treatment time depends on the size of the tattoo. As a rough guide, a tattoo around the size of a business card usually takes about 20 seconds to treat.
Appointments are booked in 30-minute blocks. This gives you plenty of time to go through the process, ask questions, and never feel rushed.
If you’d like a better idea of treatment times, check out our Instagram page as each video includes the actual treatment time in the description.
How long do I have to wait between treatments?
Tattoo removal requires a 6–8 week gap between treatments. We generally recommend leaving it closer to 8 weeks or longer, as giving your body more time usually leads to a better response at the next treatment.
After each treatment, your body continues to break down and remove the ink over time. This process doesn’t stop after a couple of weeks, so coming back too soon won’t speed things up, it can actually limit how effective the next treatment is.
Can you remove all colours?
Yes. Most colours respond well to laser removal, but some are more stubborn than others.
Black and red are generally the easiest and usually fade very well. Many coloured tattoos also respond really well, and in some cases just as effectively as black ink.
That said, certain shades like some blues and greens can be unpredictable. Sometimes they fade slowly, and occasionally they don’t respond much at all. It doesn’t happen often, but it can with those specific pigments.
We always prefer to be upfront about this so you know what to realistically expect before starting treatment, and there are no surprises along the way.
Can I Have removal while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Unfortunately, we can’t treat you if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What aftercare is required?
We must stress that after care is your own responsibility.
Your technician will explain the aftercare process in detail during and after your appointment, and you’ll also receive an email outlining the recommended aftercare instructions to follow at home.
For the first 1 to 2 weeks following treatment, you must avoid direct sun exposure, hot tubs, swimming pools, and salt water. The treated area should be kept clean and dry while it heals.
Aftercare products are available for purchase at the studio and are highly recommended by our technicians. If you choose to use your own preferred product, please let your technician know what you plan to use.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
Expired Laser Studio uses the highest‑standard Q‑switched Nd:YAG laser for the effective removal of unwanted tattoos and pigmentation. This state‑of‑the‑art technology delivers ultra‑short bursts of laser energy, lasting just one millionth of a second, directly into the ink particles.
The laser energy breaks the pigment down into microscopic fragments, which are then safely and naturally absorbed by the body over time, causing the tattoo to gradually fade.
With each session, any remaining pigment continues to break down further and is absorbed by the body. This process is repeated until the tattoo is no longer visible.
How many treatments will I require?
Many factors influence treatment time for tattoo removal. While the RevLite SI and MedLite C6 typically reduce the number of sessions required compared to other Q‑switched lasers, the total number of treatments needed depends on the size of the tattoo or area, ink colour, and the type of tattoo being treated.
The more information you can provide to your technician, the more accurate your treatment estimate will be. As a general guide, amateur tattoos usually require around 4 to 5 treatments, while professional tattoos may need between 6 and 12 sessions. This difference comes down to pigment intensity and density.
Do I need to do anything before I come in for my treatment?
We kindly ask that you shave the treatment area prior to your appointment to remove hair and dead skin cells. Please also ensure you are well hydrated and have eaten on the day of your treatment.
If you need to bring a child with you to your appointment, they are more than welcome. They must be old enough to sit quietly in the studio and wear safety glasses independently. If you’re unsure whether this will be suitable, please get in touch with us before your appointment so we can advise.
How much does it cost?
Due to the many factors influencing the treatment area, prices are determined during a consultation with one of our technicians. All quotes are obligation free and available via email and do not require you to make a booking afterwards.
We maintain the most affordable treatments possible with no expiration date on any quote.
Do you treat Eyebrow or Cosmetic tattoos?
Yes, we do. We safely treat eyebrow and cosmetic tattoos, including delicate facial areas and is one of our most popular treatments. Every treatment is tailored to the pigment and skin type, and we’ll talk you through what to expect before getting started.
How long do i need to wait before I can get a new tattoo on the treated area?
It’s generally recommended to wait around 3 months after your final laser removal treatment before getting a cover-up tattoo.
In some cases, if the new tattoo is going to be darker and heavily saturated, it may be suitable a little sooner, but this depends on how your skin has healed and how the area has responded to treatment.
Leaving it longer is always better where possible. This allows the skin more time to fully recover, reduces any residual inflammation, and can make the tattooing process more comfortable. It also gives the tattoo artist the best possible canvas to work on, as previously lasered skin can sometimes present additional challenges.
Before booking your cover-up, it’s always best to check in so we can assess the area and make sure it’s fully ready.