Many people get tattoos that they regret later on in life. It could be, too, that the tattoo has faded and does not look as good as it once did. Because of this, tattoo removal is becoming a common procedure. While surgery can be an effective option, there are other treatments, including laser therapy and dermabrasion, which can help remove tattoos without requiring any surgical procedures.
Preparation
Before you undergo any tattoo removal procedure, consult a dermatologist. He will explain which treatment options are best suited for you and your tattoo.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy employs a high-intensity laser beam to remove a tattoo from your skin. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, laser treatment has become the standard nonsurgical tattoo removal option. It is a low-risk, highly effective procedure.
Before the procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic. Then, the laser is applied to the skin. Lasers work by heating the area, which causes the tattoo ink to shatter. Multicolored tattoos may need multiple lasers. Usually, laser removal requires several treatments.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion involves "sanding" the skin to remove the tattoo. First, the skin is cooled until it is numb. Then, a rotary device is used to remove the top layers of skin, causing the tattoo ink to reach the surface of the skin. The area is then wrapped with dressing to absorb the ink.
The treated area will likely be sore for several days. You may need to apply antibacterial ointment, and use special bandages to cover the wound.
Effectiveness
Because tattoos are applied with the intention of being permanent, they are extremely difficult to remove. While laser removal can often be effective, they usually require several treatments. Even after these treatments, the tattoo may not be completely erased. The same can be expected for dermabrasion. You may also experience some scarring or skin color variation.
Side Effects
Side effects, if any, are usually minor. They may include skin discoloration and infection at the treated area, and a possible lack of complete pigment removal. You may also experience some scarring. Three to sixth months after the procedure, a raised or thickened scar may develop on the tattoo site.
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