Does Tattoo Removal Really Work?

Tattoos are a popular form of body art and are often used to disguise scarring and hyperpigmentation. While many people are happy with and proud of their tattoos, others find that their tastes change, and with this can come regret. Pen tattoo removal is often sought by those wanting a cheap and fast method to remove their tattoo. However, this is a dangerous option that not only doesn’t work but can also have disastrous effects on your skin and health.
If you would like your inking removed, laser tattoo removal is a highly effective and safe removal method that can almost completely revert the skin to a clear appearance.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Laser removal involves breaking down the ink particles of the tattoo using a laser on the skin. The ink gets broken down into smaller particles until they are absorbed into the bloodstream. The lymphatic system then works to carry away the particles as waste.
The process is repeated approximately every 6 to 8 weeks until the tattoo is faded enough for a cover-up or until the tattoo has been removed entirely.
Color Tattoos
If multiple colors are used within a single tattoo, the ink will need to be treated in stages. Often during treatment, only one type of ink is targeted until complete removal before moving onto the next. The laser uses a light beam to break down the particles, but different color inks require different settings in to sufficiently break down the color. Black tattoos require the use of only one adaptor and therefore can take less removal time than colorful tattoos.
Skin Tone
Laser settings can be adjusted to provide an intense or soft laser. Fair skin, for example, may require a milder laser removal setting. This feature can also be particularly helpful for the doctor to gauge how your skin reacts to the treatment in the initial removal sitting. The intensity of the laser can then be adjusted according to the skin’s response. Although some people do sometimes experience adverse effects such as blistering, the majority tolerate the process well.
Tattoo Location
The blood vessels of the body convene at the heart. The heart works hard to pump blood through the veins, and subsequently, areas of the body close to the heart are usually richer in blood supply. As broken down ink particles flow through the bloodstream, tattoos located closer to the heart will usually disappear quickly due to efficient blood flow. Tattoos on the extremities and limbs may require more laser tattoo removal sessions than tattoos that located close to the heart.
The Age of the Tattoo
Tattoo ink is injected deep into the dermis of the skin. Over time, cells in each layer of the skin die and get replaced with healthy new cells. Although the dermis does not renew at the rate of the skin on the surface, over the years, you may notice fading of your tattoo due to the cell renewal process and subsequently reduced tattoo ink. Cell renewal creates microscopic plain dots in the tattooed area, and visually this is seen as tattoo fading. Tattoos that have faded usually require less time and sessions to remove.
Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?
People describe the feeling of laser tattoo removal as hot elastic bands being flicked against the skin. The sensation isn’t pleasant, but bearable, and your body does adapt to the feeling after a few minutes. Keep the end goal in mind, and the results will be worth it.
Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare
Aftercare is simple and will require the use of soothing topical products to assist in the healing process. Your doctor will provide instructions at the end of your first treatment. Laser tattoo removal is a gradual process and requires a commitment to achieve the desired outcome. When performed by a skilled practitioner at the required intervals, it can provide highly favorable results.
If you have a tattoo that you would like removed, contact the experts at SDBotox. We are highly experienced in various cosmetic treatments, and we strive to provide quality service and care for every patient.Â