There are millions of people in the United States who have tattoos. Unfortunately, up to ¼ of them regret the decision to get at least one of them. Until recently, their only option was to go back to another tattoo artist to have the unwanted piece covered up. Now, though, laser tattoo removal is also an option. Read on to find out how it works.
What Is Laser Tattoo Removal?
The latest treatments developed in the field of laser tattoo removal are designed to take advantage of the body’s natural tendency to push out foreign particles, in this case, tattoo ink. The laser breaks up the pigment using a high-intensity light beam, making it easier for the person’s body to naturally metabolize the smaller particles of ink.
Does It Really Work?
Early methods for removing tattoos were only partially effective. They typically lightened all colors of ink but were unable to clear it from the skin entirely and almost always left behind noticeable scars. Thankfully, things have changed a lot in the past few decades.
Today’s laser tattoo removal treatments are very effective. In the early days of tattoo removal, only black tattoo ink was 100% removable because black absorbs all wavelengths of light, and the heat of the lasers often damaged the skin as well as the ink. Now, advanced systems make it possible to remove even difficult colors such as blue and green, sometimes in as little as one session, without leaving behind noticeable scars.
What to Expect
People who no longer want old tattoos can have them removed at laser spas. Their first visit will usually consist of a consultation, though, rather than a real session with the laser. During this consultation, a trained professional will evaluate the person’s tattoos and ask some questions to decide whether they are a good candidate. If they are, the next step will be to schedule the first laser tattoo removal session.
During the tattoo removal sessions, patients are given protective eye shields and positioned so that the technician can easily reach the area being treated. Before the treatment begins, the technician will test the skin’s reaction to determine what energy level will be needed. Once the settings are determined, the technician will use the laser to pass high-intensity light through the patient’s top layers of skin, where it can be absorbed by the tattoo pigment.
The laser light is administered in pulses to avoid damaging the skin. Small tattoos require fewer pulses than large ones, but they may still need several treatments. After each of them, the tattoo will become progressively lighter.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Painful?
Most people describe laser tattoo removal as less painful than getting the initial tattoo and do not need anesthesia. However, tattoos on the skin located in sensitive areas can be treated with a topical anesthetic cream. The laser spa will provide an ice pack to soothe the area after each treatment, plus an ointment and bandage to protect it.
Get Help Now
Ready to be rid of that old, ugly tattoo? There’s no reason to live with it forever. All it takes to get rid of unwanted ink is a few appointments at a laser spa, so start investigating local options today.
