Generally, when people get a tattoo, they aren’t thinking about getting it removed. But sometimes, you may find that you end up desperately wishing that it was gone. It could be an ex-partner’s name, or perhaps the tattoo wasn’t done as well as it could be, or maybe you’ve simply outgrown it over time.
Whatever your reason, tattoo removal can be a beacon of hope and give you back the confidence you’ve lost. Keep reading and discover everything you need to know about tattoo removal.
How Does It Work?
The most common and effective method of tattoo removal is laser. The laser is aimed at the tattoo and works to destroy the ink pigment below the skin. This damage to the pigmented cells forces them to come to the surface of your skin in the form of scabs, much like a tattoo. Then as it heals and the scabs fall off, parts of the tattoo should disappear too.
How Long Will It Take?
It totally depends on the size and colour of your tattoo, but most people need more than one session. The bigger and darker the tattoo, the more sessions you need. For example, if you have a small pink flower, then it should be pretty easy to get rid of due to the lightness of the pigment used. However, if you have a large backpiece with lots of heavy black lines, you’ll find you need lots of sessions to get it to a place where you feel happy. Generally, it will take a few months or even a year to remove the tattoo. This is because the skin needs to heal completely between sessions, and this can take up to three months. Tattoo removal isn’t a quick process, so you need to be prepared for the long journey.
Will It Be Removed Completely?
The end result of your tattoo removal depends on a lot of things. If you’ve only recently got the tattoo, it can be harder to get rid of as the pigment will be more saturated in the skin. Whereas older tattoos have had the chance to lighten up over time.
That doesn’t mean that newer tattoos can’t be removed, you just might need more sessions for your desired result. Some tattoos can be completely removed via laser, so if you’re wanting the area to be completely ink-free, it is sometimes possible. But there are certain inks like red and yellow which can be harder to erase. Some people lighten up the tattoo as much as they can so that they can get the area re-worked, so complete removal isn’t necessary. Once the area heals, you’ll be able to get another tattoo, so if you’re wanting to get more ink, it can be done.
Skin Tone Can Play A Part
If you have darker skin, it’s best to consult with the experts before booking in. This is because some pigments in darker skin are a lot harder to remove, so you may find it difficult to get your desired end result.
However, as laser technology has improved over the years, this may not be the case depending on who you book your removal with.
Make sure you discuss your treatment plan with the experts beforehand.
Does It Hurt?
Just like a tattoo, laser removal will cause you some discomfort. Some people like to use a numbing cream, but make sure to check with the practitioner before you use it, as it could have an effect on the laser so only use the ones they recommend. Pain is also subjective, so what is painful to some, may not be to others. If you find sitting for tattoos easy, then you may find the pain of laser easier to manage. Afterward, it will be sore and uncomfortable, just like a tattoo, so make sure you’re prepared to deal with that as well.
Aftercare
You’ll want to follow the aftercare advice of the experts, as improper healing can cause problems long-term. One top tip is to not pick any scabs or blisters during the healing process as it can cause scarring, which is the opposite effect you want your removal to have.
If you truly wish to remove your tattoo, then the pain and time of laser can be worth it. Some people with tattoos they detest find that they lose confidence in their body, so removal can be one way of bringing it back. So, if you’re stuck with ink you no longer love, you don’t have to live with it forever. Tattoos are permanent, but with the right treatment, they can be removed.
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