LASER TATTOO REMOVAL
Laser Tattoo Removal in Somerville, MA
Personalized tattoo removal for clients throughout Somerville, Cambridge, Medford, Arlington and Greater Boston.
At A-One Laser & Aesthetic Clinic, we use PicoWay® picosecond laser technology to target unwanted tattoo ink, including challenging blue and green pigments. Ultra-short laser pulses break the ink into tiny particles, which the body gradually clears through its natural processes. Each treatment plan is personalized around your tattoo, skin type, and removal or fading goals.
4.9 162 PicoWay
GOOGLE RATING. CLIENT REVIEWS. FDA- APPROVED
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FDA- Cleared PicoWay Technology
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State-Board Licensed Specialists
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Free, No-Obligation Consultation
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Serving Somerville & Greater Boston Area
Tattoo removal is more than a cosmetic task. It’s a process for your skin that requires the same care and precision as our other treatments.
At A-One Laser & Aesthetic Clinic, we offer free consultations and customized treatment plans for laser tattoo removal, considering factors like tattoo size, colors, and skin type.
Utilizing PicoWay® picosecond laser technology, we effectively target various ink colors. You'll receive consistent care from the same licensed specialist, transparent pricing, and a tailored plan for complete removal or fading for cover-ups.
WHERE TO START
Choose Your Tattoo Removal Goal
Every removal plan starts the same way — a free consultation — but where you go from here depends on what you're trying to achieve. Explore the path that fits you.
FULL REMOVAL
Complete Tattoo Removal
Looking to remove your tattoo entirely without any plans for new ink in that area? Discover the factors that affect your timeline and learn how PicoWay effectively eliminates even the most stubborn blue and green inks.
COVER - UP PREP/ FADING
Tattoo Fading for Cover-Ups
Thinking about getting a new tattoo over an old one? Fading is a quicker and more focused process than complete removal, designed to accommodate your new artist's requirements.
COSMETIC TATTOOS
Microblading & PMU Removal
Eyebrow tattoos, lip blush, or any other permanent makeup that requires fading or correction need special attention. Unlike body ink, cosmetic pigments behave differently and require a tailored approach.
SCALP PIGMENT
SMP Removal
Scalp micropigmentation that's shifted blue-green, needs a hairline adjustment, or requires full removal before a redo — treated with the same precision as our tattoo work.
GENDER - AFFIRMING CARE
Donor-Site Tattoo Removal
Preparing a donor-site area — like the forearm — ahead of gender-affirming surgery? We remove tattoos from surgical donor sites with the coordination your care team requires.
JUST GETTING STARTED
Free Tattoo Removal Estimate
Not ready to book yet? Send a clear photo of your tattoo and get a starting estimate on cost and timeline before you commit to anything.
Curious how our PicoWay® laser actually works?
COMPLETE TATTOO REMOVAL PROCESS
How the PicoWay® Laser Tattoo Removal process works.
01 — Consult
Free Assessment
We assess your tattoo's size, colors, depth, and skin type create a realistic treatment plan and provide an accurate session estimate
02 — Treat
PicoWay Laser Session
Experience the PicoWay laser that quickly breaks ink into tiny fragments! Enjoy fast sessions with great cooling and numbing for your comfort.
03 — Heal
Recovery Window
Your body removes the broken-down ink over the following weeks, and we offer clear aftercare instructions for proper healing.
04 — Fade
Visible Progress
Sessions are scheduled weeks apart to give your skin ample time to heal, resulting in noticeable fading that occurs gradually.
05 — Repeat
Reiterate if needed.
Sessions are scheduled weeks apart to allow for complete recovery, which can lead to fading. Additional treatments may be required for full removal.
What To Expect
What to Expect during Your Tattoo Removal Treatments
Clients often report the feeling as a brief snap against the skin, akin to a rubber band. The duration of the treatment varies based on the size of the tattoo—small tattoos may only take a few minutes, while larger designs might be addressed in sections for comfort and safety.
✓ Topical numbing options available on request
✓ Sessions typically spaced 8-10 weeks apart
✓ Zimmer Cooling used throughout to ease discomfort
✓ Most clients return to normal activities the same day
CANDELA PICOWAY
PicoWay Picosecond Laser: Tough on Stubborn Ink, Gentle on Your Skin.
The PicoWay laser produces extremely short picosecond pulses that break down black and multi-colored ink into tiny particles that your body can naturally eliminate. It is particularly effective on traditionally challenging colors, such as blue and green pigments, and is designed be safe for all skin tones.
✓ Effectively addresses black, blue, and green ink
✓ Compatible with a diverse array of skin tones
✓ Reduces heat exposure to the surrounding skin.
✓ Perfect for tattoo removal, fading cover-ups, and removing permanent makeup.
CANDELA PICOWAY
How Do PicoWay® Laser Works?
At A-One Laser & Aesthetic Clinic, we use the Candela PicoWay® laser, an advanced picosecond platform that delivers ultra-short pulses of energy measured in trillionths of a second.
Designed to work with precision while minimizing unnecessary thermal damage to surrounding tissue, PicoWay gives us an exceptionally versatile technology for black and colored tattoo removal.
Powerful Technology. Surprisingly Simple Concept.
01 — TARGET
The Correct Wavelength Focuses on the Ink.
We select the appropriate PicoWay® wavelength and treatment settings based on your tattoo colors, ink density, skin type, and treatment goals.
02 — PULSE
Pigment Absorbs Picosecond Energy
PicoWay utilizes ultra-short laser pulses, measured in trillionths of a, to target tattoo pigment effectively while minimizing heat exposure to the surrounding tissue.
03 — RESPONSE
Tattoo ink is broken down into smaller particles.
The quick energy generates a powerful photoacoustic effect that breaks down the targeted tattoo ink into significantly smaller particles.
04 — CLEAR
Your Body Continues the Process
In the coming weeks, your body will naturally eliminate broken-down pigment, allowing the tattoo to gradually fade with ongoing treatments and healing.
Laser starts the process. Your body continues it.
PRICING & PACKAGES
Transparent Pricing, No Uncertainty
Free Consultation
Get Measured, Get a Quote
We assess your tattoo in person and provide you with accurate price based on its size and intricacy — no guessing, no inflated estimates.
Pay Per Session
Flexible, As You Go
Perfect for those looking to fade a tattoo for a cover-up, assess their skin's reaction, or prefer to pay for treatments individually.
Session Packages
Plan the Full Removal
Clients seeking complete removal may find that bundled packages provide greater value for the multiple sessions typically needed for tattoo removal.
Tattoo pricing varies based on the size, ink density, colors, and placement of your design. Since each tattoo is unique, every quote is tailored to you. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, and we’ll provide you with a precise price before you make any commitments.
AFTERCARE
PicoWay Tattoo Removal After Care
Many of your results occur between sessions, as your body eliminates the broken-down ink. Adhering to aftercare instructions carefully aids in your healing process and keeps you aligned with your treatment timeline.
Keep it gentle
Cleanse the area exactly as we show you, then pat — never rub — it dry. Loose clothing helps avoid unnecessary friction while it heals.
Protect It From the Sun
Keep the area covered, and use SPF once we tell you it's okay to. Tanning beds and self-tanner are off the table until you're fully healed.
Stay Cool
Skip hot showers, saunas, and anything that raises your skin's temperature for the first 48 hours.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drink plenty of water. Real healing happens in the days between sessions, not just during them.
Let It Heal
Some blistering or scabbing is possible. Picking or scratching is the one thing most likely to leave a mark — hands off, as tempting as it is.
Know the Signs to Call
Some redness and swelling is expected. Spreading redness, pus, or worsening swelling means it's time to reach a medical provider right away.
Care Plan
Healing varies for everyone. We’ll guide you through a tailored plan that considers the specific location of your tattoo and how your skin reacts, rather than providing a standard guide.
CLINICALLY DOCUMENTED RESULTS; Real Cases, Real Technology
What Can PicoWay® Technology Accomplish
Clinical case studies from PicoWay®, the same picosecond laser technology we use in-clinic, showing real outcomes achieved over a full treatment course. Individual results vary by client, ink, and treatment plan. "This Is What Progress Looks Like".
IS IT SUITABLE FOR YOU?
Ideal and Effective for All Skin Tones and Tattoo Types.
Laser removal is an effective solution for many tattoos and skin types; however, each situation is distinct. During your complimentary consultation, we carefully evaluate aspects like ink type, skin condition, and medical history to create a treatment plan that is both safe and effective for you.
✓ Complete removal or partial fading for cover-ups
✓ Works effectively on all skin tones
✓ Suitable for professional and amateur tattoos alike
✓ Correction for permanent makeup and brow tattoos also
Removing an eyebrow tattoo, microblading, or scalp pigmentation instead? These use different pigments and need a different approach than body tattoos — see our dedicated pages:
Tattoo Removal Questions Answered
Tattoo Removal with Lasers: Frequently Asked Questions
The Methodology & Technology
Discover information on PicoWay® tattoo removal, including treatment sessions, discomfort, healing, aftercare, results, and what to expect before booking an appointment at A-One Laser Clinic in Somerville, MA.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Laser tattoo removal uses ultra-short laser pulses to break tattoo ink into tiny particles. Over the following weeks, your body's immune system gradually clears the fragmented ink, causing the tattoo to fade with each treatment.
Why Choose PicoWay Laser for Tattoo Removal?
PicoWay uses picosecond laser technology to deliver ultra-short pulses that efficiently target tattoo ink while minimizing heat to surrounding tissue. It is effective on many tattoo colors—including difficult blue and green inks—and can safely treat a wide range of skin tones.
Can every ink color be removed?
The PicoWay laser is especially effective on colors that are historically hard to treat, including blue and green. We'll assess your specific ink colors during your consultation and let you know what results to expect.
Is laser tattoo removal safe for all skin tones?
Yes. Our advanced PicoWay laser can safely treat a wide range of skin tones when used with appropriate settings. Every treatment is customized based on your skin type, tattoo characteristics, and medical history to maximize safety and effectiveness.
Comfort & Sessions
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Most clients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. While everyone's pain tolerance is different, treatments are generally brief. To maximize your comfort, we use cooling technology throughout the procedure and can apply topical numbing when appropriate.
Why Do Tattoos Take Multiple Sessions to Remove?
Laser treatment breaks the ink into microscopic particles, but your immune system needs time to remove those particles naturally. Multiple sessions allow the ink to fade safely and progressively while protecting your skin.
How many tattoo removal sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on several factors, including your tattoo's size, ink colors, depth, age, location, and whether it was professionally or amateurly applied. Multi-color, professionally inked tattoos generally need more sessions than smaller or single-color designs. We'll give you a personalized estimate after your free consultation.
How long between sessions?
Most treatments are scheduled approximately 8–10 weeks apart. This allows your skin to heal properly and gives your body's immune system time to gradually clear the fragmented ink before your next session.
When will I start seeing results?
Many clients begin noticing gradual fading after the first few treatments. Because your body naturally removes the fragmented ink over time, improvement continues between sessions. The rate of fading varies depending on your specific ink, tattoo age, and your body's own healing response.
How Long Does a Tattoo Removal Appointment Take?
Most treatment sessions take between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the size and location of your tattoo. Larger tattoos may require additional time.
Pricing and How to Begin
How much does tattoo removal cost?
Treatment costs vary depending on the size, complexity, and location of your tattoo, as well as the estimated number of sessions required. After evaluating your tattoo during your consultation, we'll provide a personalized treatment plan and transparent pricing.
Can I Finance My Tattoo Removal Treatments?
We offer flexible payment options to help make treatment more affordable. Our team can discuss available financing or payment plans during your consultation.
Appointment Preparation and Follow-Up
What Should I Do Before My Appointment?
For the best results, avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning, and self-tanners before treatment. Keep the treatment area clean and avoid applying lotions or creams on the day of your appointment unless instructed otherwise.
Is there any downtime after laser tattoo removal?
Most clients return to their normal daily activities immediately after treatment. Mild redness, swelling, or temporary skin sensitivity is common and usually resolves within a few days. We'll provide detailed aftercare instructions to help support proper healing and the best possible results.
Will laser tattoo removal leave a scar?
When performed by experienced specialists using PicoWay laser technology, along with proper aftercare, laser tattoo removal carries a low risk of scarring. That said, any scarring already present from the original tattoo application, or from a prior removal attempt elsewhere, may still be visible once the ink itself has faded.
How Should I Care for My Skin After Treatment?
We'll provide detailed aftercare instructions after each session. In general, keep the area clean, avoid picking or scratching, protect it from sun exposure, and allow your skin to heal naturally.
Unique Circumstances
Can I Remove a Fresh Tattoo?
No, not right away. — Newly applied tattoos must heal completely before laser treatment can begin. In most cases, we recommend waiting several months before starting tattoo removal.
Is it different removing a new tattoo versus an older one?
Yes. Older tattoos have often already faded somewhat on their own and can respond well to treatment, while newer tattoos are typically denser with ink and may need a few more sessions. We'll assess your specific tattoo's age and ink saturation during your consultation.
Can I fade a tattoo for a cover-up instead of full removal?
Absolutely — Fading for a cover-up is one of the most common reasons clients come to us. Many clients choose laser tattoo fading to prepare for a new tattoo rather than complete removal. Tattoo fading typically requires fewer sessions, and we can work with your tattoo artist to help achieve the desired level of fading before your cover-up.
Can I remove just part of my tattoo?
Yes — laser tattoo removal can target a specific section of a tattoo while leaving the rest of the design untouched. This is common for clients preparing for a cover-up or adjusting an existing piece. We'll walk through exactly what you want removed or faded during your consultation and build the treatment plan around that.
Is at-home or DIY tattoo removal safe?
No — DIY tattoo removal creams and devices aren't regulated the way medical-grade lasers are, and they carry real risks of burns, scarring, and infection, often without actually removing the ink. Safe, effective removal requires a proper laser and a trained specialist.
Laser Tattoo Removal Near Greater Boston
If you're looking for professional laser tattoo removal near Boston, Somerville, Cambridge, Medford, Arlington, Everett, or Malden, A-One Laser & Aesthetic Clinic offers a personalized approach to laser tattoo removal for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–VI). Using the Candela PicoWay laser, our experienced team evaluates your tattoo's color, size, age, and location, and plans a treatment designed around your individual needs — whether your goal is complete removal, fading, correction, or cover-up preparation.
We proudly serve clients from Somerville, Boston, Cambridge, Medford, Arlington, Everett, Malden and throughout Greater Boston. Schedule a free consultation to determine whether PicoWay or another technology available at A‑One is appropriate for your goals.
Removing a tattoo as part of your transition? We also offer dedicated gender-affirming Laser hair removal and electrolysis — built around your goals, private and judgment-free.