Laser Tattoo Removal- How to Erase the Marks of Rebellion
Over the past decade, tattoos have drastically increased in popularity. It is estimated that over 10 million Americans now have “ink”. It is also a fact that about 50% of those people later regret their marks of rebellion and would like to have their tattoos removed.
In the past, removing a tattoo meant undergoing painful surgical procedures that often left permanent scarring. With the introduction of laser tattoo removal, that is no longer the case.
Can All Tattoos Be Completely Removed?
The current growth in the tattoo industry has also sparked improvements in tattoo technology, improved ink quality and more skilled tattoo artists making them harder to remove. Many tattoos can be completely removed but some, unfortunately, can only be partially removed leaving a shadow or residual scarring behind.
Removal of tattoos on fatty areas such as arms, legs, buttocks, chest, and on fair skinned people have the greatest success rate. The deeper the tattoo has penetrated into the skin, the harder it is to remove without any scarring.
A consultation with a qualified laser tattoo removal specialist will give you an indication of whether you are a good candidate for successful tattoo removal.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Lasers direct concentrated energy into the ink particles under the skin. This energy helps to break up the ink into tiny fragments which will be eliminated during your body’s natural cell regeneration process. Laser beams are able to selectively target only the ink particles leaving the healthy skin surrounding the tattoo untouched.
It usually takes more than one session to completely remove most tattoos with a laser. Each session usually only lasts a few minutes but you may need several treatments spaced 4-8 weeks apart depending on the color and depth of your tattoo.
If your tattoo is very deep, the heat generated by the laser may cause the skin to blister. Multiple sessions of deep laser penetration may cause some residual scarring.
It is very important that you consult a dermatologist who is skilled and experienced in laser tattoo removal to give you the best possible results with minimum amount of potential scarring.
Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?
While laser tattoo removal is bloodless and incision free, it is not without some discomfort. It does not hurt any more than getting the tattoo in the first place. Many people compare the laser treatment to feel similar to the snap of an elastic band on the skin.
Depending on your pain threshold, you may want to discuss pain management with your dermatologist prior to the treatment. He may suggest taking Tylenol before your appointment or the use of a topical or injectable anesthetic.
How Much Does Laser Tattoo Removal Cost?
It is not possible to give a flat rate for laser tattoo removal since every tattoo and every individual is different. The color of your skin, the depth the tattoo pigments have penetrated your skin, your skin type and color are all factors that will determine how many sessions you will require for complete removal of your tattoo. The average cost will be anywhere from $99-$800 per treatment session. The cost will be determined during your consultation with a qualified dermatologist when they examine you and your tattoo.