Yes, laser tattoo removal is a thing
Monique ‘Monz’ Welham, is “excited” to open her new part-time business on the main street of Morrinsville.
Bringing something completely new to Morrinsville, Erase Laser Studio is dedicated to safe, effective tattoo removal. From offering cover-up prep to full removals, Monz is filling a gap in the rural town while also helping clients regain confidence, a service that’s already proving life-changing for some.
It’s not just the business that’s new, the very concept of laser tattoo removal is a first for some residents. It’s something Monz discovered recently when a man knocked on her car window at a gas station and asked “Are you for real?”
Taken back for a second, she realised he was referring to the signage on her work car. Monz explained the concept of laser tattoo removal and the man was astounded, as he didn’t even know it was a “thing”.
So how does Laser tattoo removal work? At your consultation, you’re asked whether you want a full removal or a ‘cover-up’ where another tattoo is placed over it. It takes 3-7 sessions for cover ups and complete removal can require up to 15.
Monz said, “Tattoos are designed to be permanent, so I’m honest about the reality of the timeline with customers, It’s a journey”. To ensures the best quality care for customers she said she “likes to work with the tattooist when it comes to cover ups, just to make sure they are happy with the number of sessions.”
There are two machines used in the removal process. First, a cooling machine is used which helps numb the skin, then, a Q-Switch Laser targets the ink in the skin and breaks up the pigment into minuscule particles. The clients lymphatic system then targets the rest. As the skin heals, the tattoo’s appearance fades.
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Monz is pictured with her client Shay Thompson at her third removal session. Special glasses are worn to protect your eyes during sessions – Photo by Julia Bartley -
Picture shows Monz applying after care to Thompson – Photo by Julia Bartley -
Close up of Thompson’s remaining tattoo – Photo by Julia Bartley
In the first two weeks of opening, Erase Laser Studio is making a big impact in the rural town of Morrinsville. One recent client of Monz had her first session on her leg, and said afterwards that it was life changing. She told Monz that she could finally feel comfortable wearing a dress.
“Relationships are important when it comes to living in rural town. I will be working with some clients for up to two years. So the connections that you make matters”.
Monique Welham, owner of Erase Laser Studio
Photo – Julia Bartley
Shay Thompson (pictured above) was 19 when she got her first tattoo. It was a fairy on her left shoulder. But over the years she grew to disliking the placement, saying that it didn’t sit right when wearing singlets and strapped dresses. “The sessions have been tolerable and rewarding” mentioned Thompson, who is very much looking forward to having it removed fully in time for her wedding.
It can be nerve wracking getting laser removal for the first time, Monz acknowledged. She gets clients who come in nervous, but often leave laughing and saying “It’s not actually that bad”.
It’s these moments that matter to Monz, she loves to see the changes of expression when they walk out the door compared to when they first entered.
Monz is thankful to her partner, Kelvin, and said that starting her business wouldn’t have been possible without him. She also credits the support from her employers at Brian Tunnicliffe Nissan, Morrinsville for being extremely supportive and accommodating with her new business venture.
Erase Laser Studio is located right above Images Day Spa at 222 Thames Street. For more information or to book, you can click here:
