Tattoo Removal Techniques | Safety and Effectiveness

Tattoo removal is a process to eliminate unwanted tattoos using laser therapy or surgical excision.
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Dermatology Procedures | Tattoo Aftercare | Tattoo Removal Methods | Laser Tattoo Removal | Tattoo Fading Creams
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Tattoo Removal FAQ


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What is tattoo removal?

A tattoo is a permanent form of body modification where an artist injects inks and pigments (dyes) into your skin. Tattoo removal is a procedure to remove this permanent ink from your body.

Can a dermatologist remove a tattoo?

If you have a tattoo that you don’t want any longer, your healthcare provider might suggest a type of tattoo removal, like laser therapy. Tattoo removal by a dermatologist is safe but may have side effects like scarring. Laser tattoo removal uses pulses of light directed at your skin to remove unwanted tattoos. What is tattoo removal?

Can a laser tattoo be removed?

Although it's not the only way to get rid of old ink, laser tattoo removal is the favored method of removal for a few reasons. "Laser removal is the most successful and cost-effective way to remove a tattoo," says Dr. O’Connell.

What are the different types of tattoo removal?

There are different types of tattoo removal available, including: Laser tattoo removal: Lasers are focused beams of light directed onto your skin. Lasers heat up the ink particles in your skin to break them down into smaller particles, which are easier for your immune system to remove. It can take multiple laser therapy sessions to remove a tattoo.

What is the best way to remove a tattoo?

Most experts consider laser removal to be the most successful and cost-effective way to remove tattoos. Often, lasers don’t completely remove a tattoo. Instead, they significantly lighten or fade it so it’s much less noticeable. Today, most tattoos are removed with a Q-switched laser, which sends out energy in one strong pulse.

How common is tattoo removal?

Tattoo removal is becoming increasingly common. A 2019 Ipsos poll showed that 30% of Americans have at least one tattoo, compared to 21% in 2012. Tattoo regret is also on the rise: A 2015 Harris survey showed that 23% of people with tattoos wish they could erase at least some of their ink, compared to just 14% in 2012.

How long after getting a tattoo can a laser tattoo be removed?

Fortunately, New laser technology and techniques have improved the removal process and its results. Most doctors on RealSelf recommend that you wait at least six weeks after getting a tattoo before trying to get it removed. Interested in tattoo removal? What are the pros and cons of laser tattoo removal?

Tattoo Removal References

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