Tattoo Removal Methods

Sometimes people get a permanent tattoo and then later decide they no longer want it. But removing a tattoo isn’t as easy as it might seem. It can be painful, and risks include possible scarring and infection.

A few methods are available today, each with varying degrees of success, recovery time, risks, and side effects.

Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal is the most common method health care professionals use to remove or lighten tattoos. The laser light energy shatters the tattoo ink into small particles. The body’s immune system gradually absorbs and eliminates these fragmented particles over time.

The type of laser used to remove a tattoo depends on the tattoo’s colours. Because different colours of ink absorb different wavelengths of light, multi-coloured tattoos may require the use of multiple lasers. Colours like green, red, and yellow are the hardest to remove, while dark blue and black are the easiest.

Expected Results & Recovery Time

The length and number of treatments depend on several factors, including the size of the tattoo and the colours used. Complete removal of the tattoo can take many treatments, typically 6-10, spaced 4-6 weeks apart to give the skin time to heal. Healing typically takes 5-7 days, but the treated area may remain sensitive for a few weeks.

In some cases, complete removal of the tattoo may not be possible.

Risks and Side Effects

Mild discomfort or stinging during treatment.

Immediate redness and temporary swelling post-session. Hyperpigmentation (darkened skin) or hypopigmentation (lightened skin), particularly for individuals with darker skin tones.

Surgical Removal

Surgical removal, also called excision tattoo removal, involves cutting off tattooed skin and stitching the remaining skin back together. It’s the most invasive method of tattoo removal, but also the only guaranteed way to completely remove a tattoo.

It will always leave a scar. As a result, it’s usually only done on smaller tattoos, as removing large areas of skin can be challenging.

Surgical excision is usually done in a plastic surgery office and the procedure itself can take a couple of hours, depending on the size of the tattoo. Local anesthesia is required for the procedure.

Expected Results & Recovery Time

Complete and immediate removal, as the tattoo is physically removed from the skin. Healing time is around 2-3 weeks, but the area may remain tender for several months.

Risks and Side Effects

Pain, scarring, and potential for infection. The most significant risk is scarring. Larger tattoos require skin grafting, which increases the risk of complications.

Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion involves physically sanding down the skin with a high-speed, rotating device. Technically, this method does not remove the pigment. Instead, it wounds the skin above and around the pigment to stimulate an immune response that may lighten the pigment as the skin heals. It’s a less popular method due to its effectiveness varies widely from person to person, its aggressive nature and its longer recovery period.

The length of time the procedure takes depends on the size and colour of the tattoo. Larger tattoos with many colours may take more than an hour to treat.

Expected Results & Recovery Time

Can lighten or remove tattoos, but results are less predictable than with laser removal. May not completely remove deeper or multi-coloured tattoos.

The recovery process can take 2-3 weeks, with prolonged skin sensitivity. The treated area requires careful aftercare to prevent infection.

Risks and Side Effects

Risks: Infection, scarring, or changes in skin texture. Not recommended for individuals with sensitive skin or certain medical conditions.

Side Effects: Redness, swelling, and the formation of scabs. Pain or discomfort during and after the procedure is common. The pinkness or discolouration of the treated area usually fades in 8 to 12 weeks.

Tattoo Removal Methods Vary in Their Effectiveness and Scarring Risks

Consult a medical professional to determine the best method for your tattoo and skin type to achieve optimal results with minimal side effects.