Because of medical and technological advances more and more people are using laser tattoo removal procedures to eradicate unwanted tattoos. During the removal process a high-intensity laser beam is used that specifically targets tattoo ink. The process is not terribly painful and reduces the chances of scarring, compared to other tattoo removal procedures, like surgical removal or dermabrasion. Additionally, the laser tattoo removal process does not cause the patient to bleed thereby reducing the chances of infection. The process also has minimal side effects.

The Lasers

The doctor or laser technician can very the wavelength and intensity of the laser depending on the color of the pigment used in the tattoo ink. They can direct the laser so it only goes after the ink and doesn’t affect the natural pigment in the skin. If the laser process becomes painful for the patient the doctor can adjust the strength of the laser accordingly.

How Does It Work?

During the tattoo removal process the tattoo absorbs the light from the laser and the ink pigments in the tattoo are broken down into very small particles. The body then absorbs these tattoo ink particles into the bloodstream and expels them naturally. The color usually begins fading over the course of several weeks. The colors used in the tattoo directly affect the laser’s ability to break down the ink particles. The easiest tattoo color to remove is black. Green and red are harder to remove.

Does It Cause Scarring?

The use of Q-switched lasers makes tattoo removal one of the safest ways to get rid of tattoos. Setting the laser on lower settings helps minimize the risk of scarring or de-pigmentation. Lower settings also reduce the amount of pain experienced during the tattoo removal process. People that bruise easily should have the doctor conduct a skin patch test in a place on the body that doesn’t show to make sure the tattoo removal process doesn’t leave permanent scars. People with darker skin should get skin patch tests. People who are prone to getting keloids should definitely get a skin patch test because if keloids develop as the result of a laser session they can be unsightly, dark in color, and sometimes painful because they contain nerve endings.

What Happens During the Tattoo Removal Process?

At the start of the process the doctor, nurse, or laser technician usually cleans the area to be treated and applies a numbing gel or cream. Depending on the location of the tattoo a local anesthetic may also be applied. The doctor or laser technician then puts on safety glasses and turns on the laser. They will then begin move the laser over the tattoo design in order to break up the ink pigments. They’ll usually ask you if you feel pain when the process begins; be sure to tell them if they don’t ask so they can adjust the pulse of the laser.

After the procedure the doctor or technician may apply an antibiotic cream or sunscreen. They may also apply an ice pack. It’s important that the treated area be kept clean and that sun exposure to the affected area is minimized. Don’t use any exfoliants that may further irritate the treated area. You want to treat the area with care and give your body time to absorb the ink particles.

How Many Sessions Are Required?

The number of session required depends on the size of the tattoo, the colors used, and the age of the tattoo. Tattoos that have faded over time have less pigment and therefore require less laser sessions. Also, black is easier to remove than other colors like red and green. With each treatment the tattoo becomes lighter and fades even more. More than one session is usually required however the duration of each session should decrease once the tattoo ink begins being absorbed by the body. Since it takes a few weeks for absorption to occur the sessions will be spaced out over the course of several weeks.

Laser tattoo removals are a safe and efficient way to remove tattoos. As with most medical procedures, do your research so you can find a qualified doctor or laser technician. Calling a local reputable dermatologist or plastic surgeon is a good place to start. Most of them will be able to perform the procedure themselves; if not they can point you in the right direction.

See also:
How Much Does it Cost to Remove Tattoos?
Think Before Getting Those Tattoos