Laser removal is the most common type of tattoo removal. Laser removal of a tattoo might require numerous treatments over the course of several months. The amount of time it takes depends on the type, amount and pigment of ink in the tattoo, and other factors, such as the location of the tattoo on the body. You must take care to prevent infection, avoid skin irritation and ensure smooth healing.
History
More than twice as many women as men want their tattoos removed, according to a Texas Tech University study published "Archives of Dermatology." The study compared compare motivations for tattoo application and removal in 1996 to motivations 10 years later, after tattoos gained more social acceptance with a new generation of young adults. In many cases, the reason for seeking removal was an identity shift and a desire to break with the past.
Types
Laser surgery is the most common and safest method of tattoo removal. Other possible methods of tattoo removal include excision and skin grafting, acid peel or dermabrasion, which is manually rubbing off the top layer of skin with an abrasive substance. However, these are outdated methods that usually result in scarring. Different types of lasers work best for different tattoo pigments and on different shades of skin color.
Time Frame
It usually takes three to four laser treatments to fade a self-applied tattoo, and it can take up to 10 treatments to remove a more complicated, multicolor tattoo from a professional tattoo artist, according to the Australasian College of Dermatologists. Time between treatments ranges from one to two months.
Features
With each laser treatment, the tattoo fades more. After a removal treatment, a crust forms that can last up to two weeks. Healing skin usually itches for the first week, and it might bleed or blister. During the healing process, treated skin might lighten temporarily. Healing skin is especially sensitive to the sun.
Care
While healing from tattoo removal, keep the area very clean but avoid abrasive scrubs. An ice pack can reduce redness and swelling. You can apply topical antibiotics or healing ointments for several days after a treatment, and you might cover the skin with a dressing. Avoid scratching and picking at the skin. Keep healing skin covered, coated with sunscreen or out of the sun altogether.
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