Inside: Tattoo Removal
Do you have tattoo regret? Even the best designs can lose their meaning as you grow and have new experiences. If you have your ex’s name tattooed on your arm, removing it will be the main thing on your mind. The good news is that tattoo removal is possible. There are three main procedures that you can opt for.
Top 3 Tattoo Removal Options
Whether you need to get an embarrassing ink removed or want to make room for others, here are some of the best tattoo removal procedures that you can opt for:
1. Laser Removal
Laser treatments are the most budget-friendly and efficient method to remove tattoos. Rather than removing it completely, the procedure lightens the ink to the point that it is barely visible. Today, most clinics use a Q-switched laser to remove tattoos. This type of laser sends out a strong energy pulse which heats the ink so it can dissolve.
You need to undergo multiple sessions over several weeks to get promised results. Older or complex tattoos fade fast, but fresher ones can take several sessions to fade. Most results are apparent within 7 to 10 treatments, and you will have to wait for 6 to 8 weeks between sessions for the best results.
Here are some aftercare tips that can ensure the treated areas heal nicely:
- Avoid tight clothing. The treated area will be pretty sensitive for a few days. Abrasive fabric can leave scars.
- Protect the treated area from direct sunlight.
- Keep the area dry and clean.
- Do not scratch or pick at the scabs and blisters that form.
Laser procedures have lower chances of scarring than other tattoo removal procedures as long as you proper the aftercare instructions.
2. Surgical Excision
Surgical removal or excision is a bit more invasive than laser treatments and is recommended for small tattoos. During the procedure, a dermatologic surgeon will remove the tattoo carefully using a sharp scalpel and stitches up the wound so it can heal properly.
This ink removal technique is highly efficient in removing complex tattoos that require a delicate approach. Unfortunately, this procedure leaves scars, so it is recommended only for small tattoos.
You will be given a local anesthetic before the tattoo is removed with a scalpel. The minor surgery can take a few hours to complete as per the size of the ink. The treated area will take a few weeks to heal. You have to apply an antibiotic ointment to it to prevent infection.
Some of the aftercare instructions you should follow can include the following:
- Keep the stitches clean. Clean the area daily using mild soap and water.
- Apply the prescribed ointment to the treated area regularly.
- Make sure the stitches are covered by dressing till it heals.
- Avoid saunas, hot tubs, and hot showers till the stitches come off.
3. Dermabrasion Tattoo Removal Process
Tattoo removal is also possible via dermabrasion. During the procedure, a sanding device is used to remove the layers of skin over the tattoo so the ink can ooze out on its own. This option is not as popular as the first two ones since its results can differ from person to person.
This tattoo removal procedure is not recommended for people with sensitive skin or who get flare-ups like eczema frequently. You are also at risk of bleeding out or getting bruised or discolored skin if you take blood thinners. If you have dark skin, you may experience discoloration as the procedure sloughs off the layers of your derma.
The clinician will apply a local anesthetic to the tattooed area during the procedure. Once the area is numb, they will use a high-speed abrasive device to sand off layers of skin over the ink so it can escape. You will only need one session, but the time it takes depends on the ink’s size, color, and complexity.
If you have a large tattoo, you may have to sit for more than an hour.
Can you completely remove a tattoo?
Where To Get Tattoos For Easy Removal Later
If you want to get a simple tattoo that you don’t want to regret down the line, here are some parts of the body you should consider getting them for:
The Neck
The neck area responds quite well to laser tattoo removal. The ink will continue to fade after a couple of sessions.
The Torso
The chest, back, and arms are the easiest places to get tattoos removed from since they are close to the heart. They get good blood circulation.
The Face
Face tattoos can be real job killers! Fortunately, you can get face ink removed easily, but opt for laser. Dermabrasion and surgical removal will leave scars or discolor the skin.
Choose a Procedure As Per Your Needs And Budget
Tattoos are a great way to express creativity, but removal can be necessary as your circumstances and perspectives change. The aforementioned tattoo removal services remove ink with varying degrees of success.
Laser stands out from the other two since it is more efficient, faster, and cost-saving in comparison.
Make sure you visit a well-known treatment center with responsible and professional staff. Irrespective of the procedure, you will require medical care and appropriate aftercare instructions to ensure the treated areas heal nicely and leave minimal marks.
More About Tattoos
- Does Tattoo Removal Leave a Scar? – While having a tattoo removed doesn’t typically leave a scar, you may end up with one if the original tattoo has a scar already. Sometimes tattoo artists will damage your skin by going too deep or by overworking the needles. This can lead to scarring, so if a scar exists before your tattoo removal, you can expect it to still be there when it’s done. Take a look at our helpful tips to get ready for tattoo removal.
- Does Tattoo Removal Cream Work? – So you’re ready to part with your tattoo. Of course, you want to make the process as simple and successful as possible, and it’s not unlikely that these goals have led you to consider removal cream. The idea of an at-home removal cream that works by erasing your unwanted body art is obviously appealing, but how does cream work and is it actually effective? We’re here to tell you what we know.