A bad tattoo doesn't have to be with you your whole life---removal is an option. Laser tattoo removal is the most effective choice, but tattoo removal creams are also on the market. All forms of tattoo removal will affect your skin, but the severity will depend upon your skin type, the tattoo itself and the removal method you choose. Your dermatologist can help you make the best choices for your skin during the tattoo removal process.
Types
Laser tattoo removal is the most costly option. Lasers are used to break up the tattoo inks under the surface of the skin. While laser tattoo removal can be expensive, time consuming and painful, it works. Tattoo removal creams can rely upon chemical and mechanical exfoliation, but only chemical peels have been shown to be effective, according to the Healthy Skin Association.
Laser Removal
Laser tattoo removal is not an easy process. Your health care provider may recommend that you take an over-the-counter pain reliever before the procedure, suggest an anesthetic cream or even use an injected local anesthetic. You will be given after care instructions to care for your skin. The laser removal site will be treated with an antibacterial ointment and bandaged. It may be suggested that you elevate the area to reduce swelling. You can expect sensations similar to a sunburn, reports YourPlasticSurgeryGuide.com. Your skin will be very sun sensitive, so proper precautions are essential.
TCA Peels
The only chemical option proven effective, the trichloroacetic acid or TCA peel, causes significant skin irritation. A stinging sensation is typical during the peel process. The skin is bandaged and a scab forms. The skin should remain bandaged until the scab is gone; however, if the scab remains wet or moist at the end of the first week, betadine ointment should be applied and the area redressed regularly until the scab is dry reports the HealthySkinAssociation. Repeat treatments are necessary at three-month intervals, with each peel requiring three to six weeks to heal.
Tattoo Removal Creams
Tattoo removal creams use a variety of ingredients or methods. One of the most popular and best reviewed of these, Wrecking Balm, combines creams with a mechanical abrasion device. WreckingBalm.com states that a mild burning or stinging sensation is normal. The company recommends that you avoid using the product on cracked, irritated or delicate skin.
Considerations
Good skin care can reduce the effects of tattoo removal. If you opt for laser treatment, follow your care provider's instructions to avoid additional irritation. Both TCA peels and abrasive systems like Wrecking Balm may leave you with tender, new skin that requires gentle treatment, sun protection and care. Keep in mind that you may only need to fade a tattoo if you plan to cover the area with a new tattoo and can therefore reduce skin damage by opting for fewer treatments.
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