A lot of people choose to get tattoos as a great way to express themselves or symbolize something special about their lives or interests. However, your life can change a lot as the years go by, and you might like to get your tattoo removed.
If you experience tattoo regret or just feel like it’s time for a change, there are several tattoo removal methods available to you. Laser tattoo removal is one of the most popular options, and this guide will answer common questions like “How does laser tattoo removal work?”
Most Common Tattoo Removal Methods
Before we look at the ins and outs of the laser tattoo removal process, it’s important to acknowledge that there are several tattoo removal methods to choose from. Each color tattoo removal method has its pros and cons. Here are the main methods to remove tattoos:
- Laser – The laser tattoo removal process is one of the most popular options and one of the least painful, too. It involves the repeated use of lasers to break down the pigments in the skin. It’s one of the top options for tattoo removal on dark skin and lighter skin, alike.
- Salabrasion/Dermabrasion – Another way to remove tattoos is through processes called salabrasion or dermabrasion. These processes essentially consist of rubbing the tattoo away through force. Some people try this method at home, but there are many DIY tattoo removal dangers.
- Injections – It’s also possible to inject certain substances under the skin to degrade the tattoo, but many Las Vegas tattoo shops and tattoo removal clinics advise against this method due to the risks.
- Surgery – Surgery, or surgical excision, is another way to get rid of a tattoo that involves literally cutting away the tattooed skin and then grafting over it and leaving it to heal. This is a rapid method but comes with a lot of risks.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
So, how does laser tattoo removal work? Well, the process is quite simple and basically involves shining a laser light onto the tattoo. The laser has to be set to just the right wavelength and shoots out quick pulses of energy.
These energy pulses pass through the surface level of the skin and penetrate to the lower levels, where the tattoo ink is found. The ink absorbs the light, which causes the pigments and particles to break down. Your body’s immune system then gradually disposes of those small pieces.
The process is said to be quite painless by most patients, and laser tattoo removal near you could be the best option if you’re looking for how do you remove a tattoo in an easy and safe way, without surgery or painful abrasive techniques. Schedule a consultation to learn more.
Number Of Treatments
So, we’ve seen the basics of how laser tattoo removal work, but it’s important to note that the whole process can’t usually be completed in just one go. It often takes anywhere from six to 10 treatment sessions to get the best results. This can vary based on the following factors.
- Skin Tone: Those with light skin tones will see faster results, as tattoo removal on dark skin tends to take longer.
- Tattoo Placement: Tattoos in certain places tend to fade faster than others. In particular, if your tattoo is close to the heart, it’ll fade faster.
- Health: A person’s health can also impact the duration of the process. Those in poor health with weak immune systems will need more treatment.
- Ink: The ink involved in the tattoo is one of the biggest factors of all that influences how long the process takes.
- Amount Of Ink – Tattoos with lots of ink will take longer to get rid of.
- Ink Types – Certain ink types are thicker and need more treatment to degrade.
- Ink Color – Light colors are more difficult to remove than darker ones, due to the way the laser works.
- Depth of Ink – Ink that is deeper down in the skin’s layers is typically harder to remove.
- Tattoo Age: Tattoos tend to sink deeper into the skin and fade as they get older. Because of this, they’re faster to remove than new ones.
- Aftercare: If you looked after your tattoo well after you got it, there’s less chance of scar tissue and other problems, so it should be cleaner and easier to remove.
- Size of Tattoo: Of course, the size of your tattoo also matters. Big tattoos require longer treatments and more frequent lasering than small ones.
This video provides a good breakdown of how laser tattoo removal works. It’s a good segment that showcases the mechanical and biological aspects of how they are removed from the body.
What Can You Expect From Laser Tattoo Removal Process?
Typically, the process of laser removal for tattoos is quite straightforward for the patient. You’ll be introduced to the procedure and given some glasses to protect your eyes. You’ll also have some anesthetic to numb the area, and you’ll be put into a position and asked to keep still while the lasers do their work. You’ll have to repeat the process several times and follow any aftercare instructions from your practitioner.
When Is Laser Tattoo Removal Most Effective?
In general, laser tattoo removal is the most effective method in almost every case. It’s the most modern and safest way to get rid of tattoos, and it works for old and new tattoos of various colors on people with different skin tones.
How Painful Is Laser Tattoo Removal?
The process is not completely painless, but most people don’t notice too much pain during laser tattoo removal. Instead, you may notice a general discomfort, but it’s a lot less noticeable than actually getting the tattoo in the first place. It will also depend on your personal pain thresholds and the location and size of the tattoo.
