What You Need to Know About Tattoo Removal

Whether your tattoo has lost its symbolic significance, was necessitated by tradition you no longer adhere to, or was a purely decorative choice you now regret, we understand that you may want to get rid of it.

Fortunately, despite their perceived permanence, you can have unwanted body ink removed using various procedures. Here is more information about tattoo removal:

Types of Tattoo Removal

There are different types of tattoo removal methods you can choose from:

#1 Cover-up Tattoo

If you don’t mind covering up your tattoo with more art, then the cover-up method might be for you. It eliminates unwanted tattoos by inking a new one over it. Although it doesn’t technically remove your old tattoo, it will no longer be visible after the process.

While you may not be a stranger to getting inked, here are a few reminders regarding the procedure:

• Procedure

Since you need a tattoo artist for the cover-up, it’s crucial to consult with them first. Ask for suggestions and work with them so you end up with a design you love.

To effectively hide old tattoos, tattoo artists may draw designs that include more shading, heavier lines, or unique shapes. They will apply the cover-up in the same way they did your old ink. Depending on the size and detail, the tattooing process may take hours or even days to finish.

• Aftercare

The tattoo artist will provide specific instructions on how to take care of your cover-up tattoo and when you may take off the bandage.

Wash the new tattoo gently using unscented, mild soap 3 times a day. You don’t have to soak it. Do this for the first 3 days after taking off the bandage. Pat it dry after washing. After a few days, wash your tattoo once a day and apply unscented lotion on it twice daily.

Avoid picking at the scaps or scrubbing off flakes of skin that may develop over the tattooed area. Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion to relieve dryness and itchiness. Avoid swimming, keep it from direct sunlight, and don’t wear tight clothes over the tattooed area since they can stick to the healing skin. It should completely heal after a few weeks.

• Risks and Side Effects

Make sure you turn to a trusted tattoo artist who works in a clean shop. They should wear gloves and use sterilized equipment. Seek reviews from previous clients before booking an appointment. You can also contact the tattoo artist for any inquiries.

Getting a cover-up will result in the same side effects (redness and soreness) as your previous tattoo session.

• Costs

Tattoo prices depend on the artist. However, a cover-up typically costs more than the original design since you will need a bigger piece to completely obscure the unwanted one.

#2 Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion uses a sanding device designed to remove the layers of skin that contain the ink. It’s a less common option for tattoo removal, and its effectiveness may vary for each person.

If you have sensitive skin or have eczema, this option is not for you. Also, people who have darker skin have a higher risk of experiencing skin pigmentation changes.

• Procedure

This tattoo removal process involves a professional numbing your skin with a local anesthetic to reduce or eliminate pain. They will use a high-speed rotating abrasive machine that removes your skin’s top layers to let the ink escape.

The time the entire procedure takes depends on the tattoo’s colour and size. It may take more than an hour to treat large tattoos with multiple colours.

• Aftercare

As the treated site heals, the technician may recommend an antibacterial cream to avoid infection and reduce any scarring. After the procedure, the area will likely feel raw and painful for several days. Your skin might appear pink or red during this time. The pinkness typically goes away in 8 to 12 weeks. Meanwhile, full recovery can take 2 to 3 weeks.

You might receive the following advice:

• • Apply sunscreen on the treated site every time you’re outside.
  • Avoid direct sunlight for 3 to 6 months after the procedure.
  • Avoid soaking the area in the water while it heals.
  • Wear only loose clothes on the site until it heals.

• Risks and Side Effects

Some may experience scarring from dermabrasion treatments. It may also cause the following symptoms:

• bleeding, redness, and swelling
• infection
• scarring from poorly done dermabrasion
• skin colour changes like blotchiness, darkening, lightening

Prevent all of these by following the professional’s aftercare instructions. Ensure that they have proper licensing and good reviews, as well.

• Cost

If you’re asking, “How much does this particular tattoo removal cost?”, the answer is: it depends on the size and colours used.

#3 Laser Tattoo Removal

Most experts consider laser removal to be the most favourable and most cost-effective treatment for removing tattoos. A Q-switched laser removes tattoos by emitting energy in a single, strong pulse. You will have to receive several treatments over several weeks to get rid of your tattoo. While it may not completely remove it, lasers lighten the ink so it becomes less noticeable.

If you have many colourful tattoos, removal can be challenging. Newer tattoos are also more difficult to remove compared to older ones. Similar to dermabrasion, laser treatment may cause pigmentation changes.

• Procedure

How does this type of tattoo removal work? A professional will use a local anesthetic to numb your skin. They apply the laser to your skin, which may bleed, blister, and swell following each procedure. They will repeat this over multiple sessions until you’re satisfied with how much your tattoo has faded.

It would usually take about 6 to 8 sessions to remove a tattoo with laser treatment. To get the best results, wait for 6 to 8 weeks in between these sessions.

• Aftercare

They will provide specific instructions for aftercare. Typical aftercare requires the application of an antibacterial ointment for several days following each procedure. It will aid in healing your skin and reduce risks of infection. Change the wound dressing every time you apply it.

Additionally, do the following for at least the next two weeks:

• • Avoid picking at any scabs or blisters that form.
  • Don’t expose the area to direct sunlight.
  • Keep the treated site clean and dry.
  • Wear only loose clothing, especially if it covers the affected area.

• Risks and Side Effects

Some people may experience scarring. Avoid picking the area to reduce the risk and follow the professional’s recommendations and instructions.

• Cost

Laser tattoo removal costs will depend on the age, colour, and size of your tattoo.

#4 Surgical Removal

Surgical removal involves the excision of the top layers of skin and stitching the remaining skin back together. Out of all methods, this is the most invasive. However, it’s also the only surefire way of completely removing tattoos.

If you need a 100% effective way to remove an unwanted tattoo, surgical removal is for you. However, because it may cause severe scarring, it may only be a good option for small tattoos.

• Procedure

Does this type of tattoo removal hurt? Fortunately, that’s not the case. Your surgeon will inject the area with a local anesthetic to numb it. Then, they will use a scalpel to cut away the tattooed skin. Afterwards, they’ll stitch the remaining skin back together.

This procedure may take one to several hours, depending on the tattoo size and the surgeon’s repair method. Also, it typically takes several weeks for the treated site to heal.

• Aftercare

Generally, apply the prescribed ointment for several days after the procedure so your skin heals more quickly and you avoid infection. Stay away from the sun and keep the treated area clean for at least two weeks.

• Risks and Side Effects

Clients who select surgical tattoo removal experience scarring. However, you can reduce the risk of severe scarring by following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions. Avoid picking at the area. Don’t perform strenuous activities that place tension on the site immediately after surgery.

• Cost

Surgical tattoo removal costs tend to be lower than dermabrasion and laser removal. It will also vary depending on the tattoo’s size.

Fortunately, there are various methods people can look into should they want to remove any tattoos. Whichever they decide to pick, they must consult with a professional to know what would be best for them. They can also read reviews of people who tried tattoo removal and see the before and after pictures.

If you have any tattoos in need of removing, then we here at em clinic are ready to help you. Our team offers reliable tattoo removal services using the most advanced laser system, Enlighten. For inquiries, please call us at (519) 668-7449 or email us at info@emclinicandspa.com.