One in three Americans has a tattoo, but not all of them are happy with their body art. In fact, one in four people who get a tattoo regret it.
If you are in that group, you might want to look into laser tattoo removal and other options. Lasers are the most popular and efficient tool for removing tattoos, but you can also try tattoo removal by dermabrasion, excision, surgical removal, or tattooing a part of the art you don't like.
Keep in mind that complications such as tattoo removal scarring, skin discoloration, or slight pain may occur.
Read on to learn more, including how much tattoo removal costs, tattoo removal before and after photos, how tattoo removal works, why you can't remove a tattoo at home, and more.
tattoo removal types
When you get a tattoo, the ink is placed in the dermis, the second layer of the skin. It lies beneath the epidermis, the surface layer of skin that frequently sloughs off and changes color. Tattoo ink can be difficult to remove because it settles in layers deeper than the skin's surface.
There are four main options for removing a tattoo. If you're considering these things, talk to your dermatologist about which one is best for you, taking into account your tattoo color, skin tone, and health history. If none of these options work, you may want to consult with your tattoo artist to find out how to cover your tattoo with another tattoo.
laser removal
Laser tattoo removal is the most common way to remove unwanted tattoos. It works by breaking down the ink (using a laser) into very small pieces that are eliminated by the body's immune system.
You can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for a laser tattoo removal session, but the price can vary greatly depending on the size of the tattoo and how your body responds to the treatment. You will probably need more than one session. The first session is considered successful when approximately half of the tattoo ink is removed. The number of sessions needed depends on the size and color of the tattoo.
Laser tattoo removal is most effective for dark-colored tattoos. Green, red, and yellow inks are difficult to remove with this method. Tattoos with white ink are especially difficult to remove with laser tattoo removal because the laser can cause the ink to oxidize (rust). If that happens, the ink cannot be removed with a laser.
Laser tattoo removal does not always work. It may also cause scarring or leave areas of skin that are lighter than the surrounding skin.
Peeling and excision
This approach to tattoo removal doesn't actually touch the ink. Instead, it causes minor damage to the epidermis. This triggers an immune response in the body, which may help lighten the pigment in the tattoo.
In dermabrasion, these minor injuries are caused by sanding off the top layer of the skin. Abolition occurs when the top layer of the skin burns.
Neither of these options work particularly well. Although it is possible to lighten a tattoo, it is not often possible to completely remove it. There is also a greater risk of scarring or discoloration. If you are considering one of these options, talk to your health care provider about what you can expect.
surgical removal
For very small tattoos, surgical removal may be a good option. Your healthcare provider may cut off the area of skin where the tattoo is and then sew the surrounding skin. Because the health care provider cuts the skin, there is a greater risk of pain or infection. It is important to note that surgery can also leave scars.
Does tattoo removal hurt?
Laser tattoo removal is somewhat painful. It may feel like a rubber band is touching your skin. Your health care provider may use a local anesthetic to help manage your pain. Dermabrasion and excision can also be painful, but your healthcare provider will use a local anesthetic to manage the pain.
If you choose surgical removal, talk to your health care provider about what to expect for your pain. Local anesthesia is administered during the procedure, but there may be some pain after the procedure.
Who are candidates for tattoo removal?
In general, healthy non-smokers are good candidates for tattoo removal, but it is important to have realistic expectations. Removal will not leave your skin intact. You may still have tattoos or scars.
The easiest tattoos to remove are those with a lot of black ink. Colored tattoos, including red, yellow, and green, are more difficult, and white tattoos may be impossible to remove with a laser because the laser turns these inks black. Small tattoos are easier to remove than larger tattoos.
Factors that will determine whether you are a good candidate for tattoo removal include:
- Size, color, and location of tattoo
- How long have you had it?
- Your health history and medications you take
- Experience with past scars
You can go to a tattoo parlor for removal, but some people get better results by seeing a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. These medical professionals can help you determine whether you are a good candidate for tattoo removal and what you can expect.
What is the procedure?
Your health care provider will usually give you a local anesthetic. However, you may experience some pain during removal. Ask your healthcare provider about your expected level of pain and how long the procedure will last. This varies greatly depending on the size and color of the tattoo and your personal health history.
Will it take more than one session to remove a tattoo?
In almost all cases, more than one session is required to remove a tattoo. Sometimes more than 10 visits may be required. No matter how many sessions you perform, your tattoo may not be completely removed. It is important to talk to your provider about what to expect.
How long does it take to remove a tattoo?
Depending on the size of the tattoo, laser tattoo removal takes only a few minutes. Laser removal can take approximately 10 to 30 minutes per session. However, multiple sessions may be required.
Surgical removal takes several hours, but only needs to be done once. However, it is rarely offered and is mainly used for very small tattoos.
How to remove a tattoo at home?
Removing tattoos at home is not recommended as it is ineffective. Some creams claim to lighten tattoos, but they are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The cream penetrates the top layer of the skin but cannot reach the dermis, where tattoo ink is deposited.
cover up tattoo
Sometimes the best way to remove a tattoo you no longer like is to cover it up. Because tattoo removal often leaves behind scars or pigmentation, many people who like tattoos in general but want to remove a specific tattoo opt for new body art. If you take this route, you'll have to commit to a new piece of work. This is because these pieces are often larger than the original and more difficult to remove. Talk to several tattoo artists to get a realistic idea of how well a new design can cover up an old tattoo.
Find an expert
Consult your primary care physician, dermatologist, or plastic surgeon for recommendations on tattoo removal. You may want to consult with a tattoo artist in your area, but remember that tattoo removal should only be handled by a medically trained professional.
Is tattoo removal safe?
Tattoo removal is safe when performed by a trained professional. Someone experienced with tattoo removal can also help you set realistic expectations for body art removal.
Potential Risks and Complications
Just like getting a tattoo, removing a tattoo can cause complications. These include:
- scar
- skin discoloration
- Imperfect Tattoo Removal
- burn
How to care for your skin after tattoo removal
It is normal to experience bleeding or develop a slight rash after a tattoo laser removal session. Whether you choose laser removal or another option, talk to your healthcare provider about your expected results.
It is important to avoid:
- exposure to sunlight for a week
- Picking or scratching the area
- vigorous exercise
- swimming and sauna
- Soap and perfume, for 48 hours
Using aloe vera or petroleum jelly can soothe itching and keep the area moisturized.
summary
Laser tattoo removal is the most effective way to remove tattoos. Dermabrasion, excision, or surgical removal may also be attempted. However, no form of tattoo removal is perfect.
Laser removal does not always remove all pigment and can be painful and expensive. Many people choose to cover up tattoos they don't like with other tattoos. Whichever option you choose, consult with an experienced professional and have realistic expectations about the results.