A tattoo is a permanent skin alteration that may cause you to reconsider your decision later in life. When a tattoo is done, the ink is embedded into the first few layers of the skin and can make removal a difficult process. Consulting with a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist is advisable to discuss the available options for safely removing your tattoo.
Step 1
Remove the tattoo by laser. Laser removal is costly and requires up to 10 treatment sessions. The high-intensity laser breaks the color pigments of the tattoo into fragmented particles, and your body’s immune system will eliminate the particles. Consult with a plastic surgeon about this tattoo removal method.
Step 2
Scrape the tattoo off with dermabrasion. Discuss with a plastic surgeon if you are a candidate for dermabrasion, or skin planing. The surgeon uses this sanding technique to remove the various layers of the tattoo after applying a local anesthetic to the skin, according to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Step 3
Excise the tattoo. According to the Mayo Clinic, surgical excision is a precision technique using a scalpel to remove the skin area and stitches to mend the edges of the skin back together. The procedure is highly effective in removing small tattoos, but will leave a scar. Consult with a surgeon about this technique.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear a sunscreen or protective clothing after dermabrasion or laser surgery to protect your skin from further damage while the area is healing. Apply an antibiotic cream to help promote healing and prevent an infection; follow the physician’s directions in terms of how long you use the cream. Over-the-counter removal creams are available, but clinical evidence is lacking to support their effectiveness for safely removing the tattoo, according to Dr. Lawrence E. Gibson, a dermatologist with the Mayo Clinic. Camouflaging the tattoo with skin-toned pigments is a technique that will cover the tattoo and give your skin a natural appearance, rendering the tattoo invisible, according to TattooHealth.org.
- Dermabrasion may cause the skin to have a lighter or reddened appearance for up to six months following the procedure, according to Medic8.
Things You'll Need
- Tattoo removal cream
- Medical consult
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