Tattoo removal is most commonly performed using lasers that react with the ink in the tattoo, and break it down. The broken-down ink is then absorbed by the body, mimicking the natural fading that time or sun exposure would create. All Tattoo pigments have specific light absorption spectra. A tattoo laser must be capable of emitting adequate energy within the given absorption spectrum of the pigment in order to provide an effective treatment. Certain tattoo pigments, such as yellows, greens and fluorescent inks are more challenging to treat than the darker blacks and blues. These pigments are more challenging to treat because they have absorption spectra that fall outside or on the edge of the emission spectra available in the respective tattoo removal laser.
How long is the average recovery time?
Post-treatment, most patients may return to their daily activities immediately. Following care instructions closely is important and certain activities may be limited due to the nature of the treatment (such as avoiding sun exposure and refraining from intense physical activity that involves the treated area) to ensure proper healing.
What risks are associated with Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser tattoo removal is relatively safe for most patients. Most tattoos are removed with little or no scarring.
The risk of infection is extremely low when post-treatment instructions are followed. There is a slight risk of hyperpigmentation (the skin in the affected area becoming darker than usual) or hypopigmentation (the skin in the affected area becoming lighter than usual).
To reduce risks, it is important to research the medical experience of the individual performing each treatment and to seek the care of trained medical professionals who use well-maintained equipment.
What are the success rates of Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser tattoo removal has an excellent success rate. Since each tattoo is unique, no clinic can guarantee 100% success. Success depends on many factors including the colors in the tattoo, the age of the tattoo, and whether it was done by a professional artist.
Patients with lighter skin types usually experience better results. A tattoo removal specialist will be able to provide an idea of what results may be realistic
How long do Laser Tattoo Removal treatments usually take? How many treatments are necessary?
These figures depend on a number of factors such as the size and age of the tattoo, the colors used, what type of laser must be used, skin type, health of the patient, among other factors.
Most treatments may take anywhere from a few minutes to 2 hours. Results are not immediate; after the treatment, the tattoo fades over a series of weeks to months.
One month intervals between treatments are common. Most tattoos require between 3 and 8 treatments. Some tattoos may require more treatments. A tattoo removal specialist will decide on how may treatments are necessary. Most tattoos are significantly reduced after the first treatment.
Does Laser Tattoo Removal hurt?
Laser tattoo removal may cause discomfort which has been likened to the feeling of a rubber band snap. The pain is usually more tolerable than the pain associated with tattoo application, however.
After each treatment, the skin may feel sunburned and sensitive. Many tattoo removal clinics offer a topical anesthetic or injections of local anesthetic if the patient is uncomfortable
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