How Are Tattoos Removed?
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Laser Tattoo Removal
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Laser tattoo removal is the most successful and most common method. This technique uses dense beams of light to break up the tattoo ink into particles which are then absorbed by the body, effectively removing the tattoo. Today's laser treatments are capable of removing tattoos without leaving a lot of damage or scarring to the skin affected by the tattoo. However, most tattoos require several sessions to completely remove a tattoo. A session can cost several hundred dollars, so laser tattoo removal can be cost prohibitive. While laser treatments are capable of removing tattoos without leaving a lot of damage or scarring to the skin affected by the tattoo, the more treatments that are required to remove the tattoo, the more likely skin damage is to occur. These treatments can be quite painful and result in blisters and scabs which may lead to permanent scarring.
Pulse light therapy is another popular option for tattoo removal. Similar to laser tattoo removal, pulsed light therapy uses dense beams of light to break the tattoo into small pieces that can be absorbed the body. The light is transmitted in pulses through a layer of gel that is applied to the skin as a conductor. This alternative to laser tattoo removal is popular because it appears to be less painful and more effective. However, it is more expensive than laser tattoo removal and could cost more in the end depending on the number of sessions needed to remove the tattoo.
Skin Removal Techniques
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Tattoo removal can also be achieved through several skin removal techniques. Dermabrasion removes the tattoo by sanding the top and middle layers of the skin off. Excision tattoo removal is performed by a surgeon who uses a scalpel to remove the tattooed skin and then stitches up the area. If the tattoo is particularly large, a skin graft may be necessary to patch the area. Cryosurgery freezes the tattooed skin, which is then removed through surgery.
The least effective method of tattoo removal available on the market is through creams and fading solutions. Companies that manufacture these products claim that their cream or solution can fade a tattoo simply by being rubbed into the tattooed skin over a period of time. They claim to be able to do this for a fraction of the price of the methods listed previously and for much less pain. This method has yet to be proven highly effective and is inferior when compared to other tattoo removal techniques.
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