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How to Budget for Tattoo Removal (and Why It’s More Affordable Than You Think)

  • Writer: Memphis Mori
    Memphis Mori
  • Sep 25
  • 3 min read


before and after tattoo removal results

The Truth About Tattoo Regret

Tattoos are more permanent than most decisions we make in life—but thanks to modern laser technology, they don’t have to be forever. Whether you’re dealing with an ex’s name, an impulsive stick-and-poke, or just a piece that no longer represents who you are, tattoo removal has become safer, faster, and more effective than ever.

The biggest question most people ask isn’t “does it hurt?” but “how much will it cost?”

Spoiler: It’s usually less than people expect. Let’s break it down.

Why Cost for tattoo removal Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Tattoo removal pricing depends on a few factors:

  • Size of your tattoo (a small wrist tattoo costs much less than a full back piece).

  • Location on your body (blood flow and skin thickness can affect how quickly it fades).

  • Ink colors and density (blacks and dark blues fade fastest, while greens and yellows can take more sessions).

  • Your unique skin and immune system (everyone clears ink at different rates).

At Reth-Ink, we use picosecond laser technology, which shatters ink into smaller particles than older nanosecond lasers. That means fewer sessions, less time, and less money in the long run.

The Myth of “Endless Expensive Sessions”

Older technology gave laser removal a bad reputation—10, 15, even 20+ sessions weren’t unheard of. Today, with picosecond lasers, most tattoos can be removed in 4–8 sessions. That’s a massive reduction in time and cost.

When you compare the higher per-session price of a picosecond laser to the total number of sessions required, you’ll see why it’s actually more affordable.

How to Budget Without Stress

Here are a few smart ways to make tattoo removal part of your financial plan:

1. Think Monthly, Not Total

Instead of focusing on the total removal cost, break it into sessions. Most clients only come in once every 6–8 weeks. That means you’re not paying all at once—you’re investing gradually over time.

2. Prioritize What Matters Most

If your tattoo is holding you back from a new job, a fresh start, or just feeling confident in your own skin, remind yourself that this isn’t a vanity splurge—it’s a long-term investment in your future.

3. Use Partial Removal for Cover-Ups

Not every tattoo has to vanish completely. Many clients choose to lighten an old tattoo so a new design can go over it. This reduces the number of sessions—and the overall cost—while giving you a tattoo you actually love.

4. Ask About Packages & Discounts

At Reth-Ink, we make it easier with:

  • Session packages (buy more, save more)

  • Cover-up discounts (20% off laser removal if you’re re-tattooing at GRIM Studios)

  • Free programs for hate, gang, and trafficking tattoos

Why It’s Worth It

Think about how much you spend in a year on things like takeout, hair appointments, or streaming services. Now compare that to something that can literally transform your confidence and open doors in your personal and professional life.

Tattoo removal isn’t just about erasing the past—it’s about creating space for the future.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’ve been putting off tattoo removal because you thought it was too expensive, it might be time to rethink. Book a consultation with Reth-Ink today, and we’ll build a personalized removal plan that works for your tattoo and your budget.

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ADDRESS

196 Parkdale Avenue North

Hamilton ON

L8H 5X2 

Located on the SECOND floor of GRIM Studios 

(unfortunately, laser services are not wheelchair accessible.)

OPENING HOURS

Mon - Sat : 10am - 4pm

Sun :  11am - 3pm

By Appointment Only 

No Walk Ins For Laser

Was/Were The Tattoo(s) Professionally Done?
Yes (only removing one tattoo/all tattoos I want removed)
No (only removing one tattoo/all tattoos I want removed)
Some yes and some no (see notes)
How Old Is/Are The Tattoo(s) You Want Removed?

For each tattoo you want removed, please include the following: size of the tattoo, tattoos around the tattoo you don't want removed, is the tattoo raised or scarred. If you have multiple tattoos, please clarify if they were professionally done and how old they are.

Describe Your Skintype (Fitzpatrick Scale)
Type I: always burns, never tans, pale, freckles
Type II: usually burns, tans minimally, light colored but darker than fair
Type III: sometimes mild burns, tans uniformly, golden honey or olive complexion
Type IV: burns minimally, tans well, moderate brown
Type V: very rarely burns, tans very easily, dark brown
Type VI: never burns, deeply pigmented, dark brown to darkest brown)
What Is/Are Your Goal(s)
Total removal
Lighten for coverup
Where Did You Hear About Us

if you submit a request and do not hear from a laser technician within 48hrs please email us at info@reth-ink.com or call us at 905-544-1222

LET'S REMOVE THAT TATTOO

Rethink

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Queer woman owned & Operated

© 2025 by GRIM Studios 

website designed & hosted by Memphis Mori 

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