Say Goodbye to Unwanted Ink: The Ultimate Laser Tattoo Removal Guide (2024)

Tattoos are a popular type of body art in the United States, with approximately one-third of the population having at least one tattoo. While tattoos are considered permanent, there is a procedure called laser tattoo removal that can lighten or remove the tattoo ink.

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

Lasers are used to remove tattoos through a process called selective photothermolysis. In this process, the laser breaks up the tattoo ink, and the immune system is triggered to remove the tattoo fragments, which causes the tattoo to lighten.

Tattoos are considered permanent and not removed by the immune system before the use of lasers because the ink particles are too large. Once the tattoo ink has been exposed to the laser, the particles break up, allowing the immune system to remove it.

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Laser tattoo removal can feel like a rubber band snapping against the skin, and the discomfort can range from slightly uncomfortable to painful.

To help manage the pain, topical skin numbing creams and medications can be applied.

Benefits of Laser Tattoo Removal

One of the greatest benefits of laser tattoo removal is that it is the least invasive option for removing ink from the skin while still being very effective. Other methods like dermabrasion, chemical peels, and surgery are invasive. Other benefits include:

• Safe and typically very effective
• Quick recovery time
• Removes any size tattoo
• Minimal pain

Risks and Limitations of Laser Tattoo Removal

While laser tattoo removal is generally well tolerated, there are potential side effects and risks associated with the procedure.

The risk of laser tattoo removal to the body include:

• Alteration in the appearance of skin pigment
• Infection
• Scarring
• Skin discoloration

Tattoo removal is not typically accomplished in one session. It can take between six and 1,2 sessions. The number of sessions will depend on the tattoo size and colors used.

Is Laser Tattoo Removal Safe for Everyone?

While most people can safely undergo laser tattoo removal there are a few exceptions. To be a good candidate for laser tattoo removal you must have a healthy immune system, should not be pregnant, and should not be breastfeeding.

Preparing for Laser Tattoo Removal

It's important to properly prepare before getting laser tattoo removal. This includes researching a reputable healthcare provider and going in for a consultation before the procedure.

The healthcare provider will ask several questions and evaluate the tattoo. The consultation may include:

• Asking about current medications
• Asking about your medical history
• Asking how long you've had the tattoo
• Examining the tattoo's size, location, depth, and colors

The Laser Tattoo Removal Procedure

Laser tattoo removal is typically done in a healthcare provider's office.

The first step in the process is to apply a numbing cream. Some providers may use an injectable numbing medication. After the area is numbed, the provider will clean the site and have you and others in the room wear protective sunglasses. The laser will be placed against the tattooed skin. It emits a pulsed light that will break up the tattoo ink. The actual lasering will take approximately 10 minutes or less, depending on the tattoo's size.

The type of laser used for the procedure will depend on the tattoo colors. Tattoo ink colors absorb laser light at different wavelengths. Therefore, tattoos with more than one color may require different lasers. The most common types of laser are the quality-switched (QS) ruby, alexandrite, and Nd:YAG lasers.

Aftercare and Recovery

Each laser session will be followed by a recovery period. Be sure to follow the healthcare provider's aftercare instructions.

The area will be red and swollen right after treatment. Applying a cold compress can help alleviate symptoms.

The area that was lasered will be an open wound that needs to be cleaned and may require antibiotic ointment for 10 to 14 days.

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Cause Scars?

Scarring is a possible side effect of laser tattoo removal. This is a rare side effect that tends to occur when the person performing the procedure lacks proper training.

Alternative Tattoo Removal Methods

Lasers are the gold standard for tattoo removal, but other methods include:

• Ablation
• Dermabrasion
  
• Surgical removal

These methods are less common because they do not actually remove the tattoo ink but rather injure the skin around the tattoo, causing an immune system response. The results with these methods vary from person to person and come with a greater chance of scarring.

Summary

Lasers are the most common removal method for tattoos. The laser breaks up the tattoo ink, which prompts the immune system to take the ink from the skin. The procedure may take multiple sessions to see adequate results. Always consult a trusted healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure to determine your risks and benefits.