Estimate your sessions

Six questions from the Kirby-Desai scale, published by dermatologists to estimate how many laser sessions a tattoo needs. Your estimate updates as you answer, with the prices clinics publish in your area.

1Your skin type

How your skin reacts to the sun (Fitzpatrick scale).

Type IVery fair. Always burns, never tansType IIFair. Usually burns, tans with difficultyType IIIFair to olive. Sometimes burns, gradually tansType IVBrown. Rarely burns, tans with easeType VDark brown. Very rarely burnsType VIBlack. Never burns

2Where is the tattoo?

Head and NeckFace, scalp, ears, neckUpper TrunkChest, upper backLower TrunkBelly, lower backProximal ExtremityShoulder, upper arm, thighDistal ExtremityForearm, hand, lower leg, foot

3Ink colors

Black onlyMostly black with some redMostly black and red with other colorsMultiple colors

4How much ink?

AmateurLetters, words, or small symbolsMinimalOne color, simple designModerateOne color, complex designSignificantMulticolored, complex design

5Scarring or skin change

Raised, thickened or scarred skin under the tattoo.

NoneMinimalModerateSignificant

6Is it a cover-up?

A newer tattoo inked over an older one.

NoYes, it covers an older tattoo

7Where will you get it done?

Prices and clinics come from this area.

Your estimate

0 of 6 answered

Answer the six questions: your number of sessions, the time it takes and what it costs where you live appear here.

Estimate from the Kirby-Desai scale (Kirby, Desai et al., J Clin Aesthet Dermatol, 2009). In its study of 100 patients, the score tracked the sessions each tattoo actually took (r = 0.76).

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Listings updated October 23, 2026.

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