How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
When tattoo removal laser light is applied to the skin, it heats up and shatters the ink that it reaches first within the skin. In other words, the shallowest layers of ink are removed before the deepest layers. It takes multiple treatments to penetrate through all of the varying depths of ink in a tattoo.
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How painful is laser tattoo removal?
Not feeling that flaming skull tattoo with your ex’s name across it anymore and wondering if you can stomach the pain of tattoo removal? Rest easy — while laser tattoo removal can hurt, chances are it won’t hurt as much as getting the tattoo did. Tattoo removal pain is comparable to the pain of a bad sunburn, and the laser pulses feel like a rubber band snapping against your skin.
Can you completely remove a tattoo with laser?
Can Lasers Remove Tattoos Completely? – Yes, lasers can remove tattoos completely. In fact, lasers are the safest, most effective tool to remove unwanted tattoos with. However, you may need to receive several sessions before the tattoo is removed completely.
Where does the ink go after laser tattoo removal?
When you get a tattoo , you can pretty much expect that it’ll be with you forever. But, if for whatever reason you change your mind, there are removal options. Unfortunately, even after removal, the ink doesn’t just disappear — we actually excrete it through our lymphatic system.
- The tattoo removal process is performed through a series of laser treatments (which can take up to four to 10 sessions), wherein the tattoo pigment absorbs light, which causes the ink to break down and be absorbed by our immune system, says Melissa Doft, a New York City-based plastic surgeon;
(We also learned this interesting tidbit in a recent Buzzfeed report. ) Although many people may think lasers simply fade the tattoo ink (similarly to how ink on paper simply fades if left in the sun), it’s actually a little more complicated. After the laser-removal process, which Doft notes, typically works best on darker, older tattoos, the ink is recognized as waste within the lymphatic system and discarded via either sweat, urine, or fecal matter.
“The focus of the laser treatment is to disintegrate the ink particles of the tattoo,” says celebrity cosmetic dermatologist Paul Jarrod Frank. “A high-intensity light beam is targeted at the pigmentation, causing it to break apart, become absorbed into the body, and be excreted through the body’s natural immune system.
” The effectiveness of the removal is partially determined by the location of the tattoo, says Frank. “Places in the body with the most circulation most easily wash away the pigmentation, while places with low circulation (like the fingers and toes) are typically harder to treat,” he says.
- The treated area can become sensitive post-procedure, which can result in stinging, allergic reactions, and small bumps;
- Frank says these reactions are a result of the dissection of ink nanoparticles that occurs during treatment, and scientists are currently researching the effects of the procedure;
Bottom line: Even after laser removal, your tattoo isn’t completely gone. That is, until you, ahem, excrete it. But, don’t worry, it’s not something you’ll notice the next time you use the restroom — no matter how big the tattoo was. As Buzzfeed points out, “you will not be able to tell that there’s tattoo ink in your poop — so please don’t go looking for it.
How long after laser does tattoo fade?
What to Expect After Laser Tattoo Removal – As a result of the revolutionary Discovery Pico laser, patients can expect to be blown away by the results of their tattoo removal, especially because Discovery Pico can work to remove tattoos that otherwise are seen as poor candidates for treatment or removal.
Following treatment, a temporary reaction known as “frosting” is common. This reaction is best described as a steam buildup under the skin which occurs as your skin reacts to the heat energy produced by the Discovery Pico laser.
It subsides within the hour following treatment. Depending on the skin type and inks used in a tattoo, temporary crusting and blistering may occur after laser tattoo removal. Tattoos will begin to fade within the first two to three weeks after treatment.
Why does my tattoo look darker after laser removal?
Why Does My Tattoo Look Darker After Laser Removal? – Contrary to what you might think, your tattoo is not getting darker and it’s a normal part of the removal process. Your tattoo is actually still fading even if it looks more vibrant. In fact, it means you are well on your way to clear, tattoo-free skin! Tattoo ink will often oxidize which is what happens to white ink when laser treated.
What are the side effects of laser tattoo removal?
Why is my tattoo removal not working?
When you have a tattoo that you regret, it’s natural that you want it removed quickly and effectively. But sometimes the results aren’t as impressive as you were hoping for. Here are the top ten reasons why your laser tattoo removal might not be working as well as you expected. 
More modern lasers such as the QX-MAX laser , are far more likely to remove your unwanted tattoo completely and quickly without causing any unwanted side effects such as burning or scarring. Medical opinion based on extended clinical research says that tattoo removal of pigments are ideally removed by using a Q-switched laser such as the QX-MAX from Fotona. The ultra short nanosecond pulses generate powers in the Megawatt range producing a powerful yet contained photo-mechanical effect in which pigment particles shatter and destroy the cells they are contained in; effectively removing the pigment.
- For safe and effective laser tattoo removal, the laser used has to be powerful enough to break down ink pigments in the quickest amount of time possible;
- Many of the standard lasers used are just not powerful enough and don’t break up the ink enough to achieve the desired results;
Different laser wavelengths are needed to remove different colors of ink. Dark colors are easier to remove than lighter ones, with black being the easiest of all – a 1064nm laser is the right choice for removing an all-black tattoo. However, this is the only laser offer at many tattoo removal clinics, and it isn’t effective for removing colored tattoos.
Blue and green inks tend to be particularly more difficult to break down – a 585nm laser for blue and a 650nm for green is the most effective for removing these colors, while red and orange inks require a 532nm laser.
So if you have multicolored tattoos your best option would be to choose a laser clinic like Premium Tattoo Removal which can treat all colors. 
The skill and experience of your laser technician have a profound impact on the success of your treatment, as well as ensuring your skin is protected. If a tattoo isn’t responding well to treatment, an inexperienced or poorly trained technician may keep treating the same spot for too long. This won’t remove the tattoo any faster or more efficiently – it is actually highly dangerous as it causes heat to build up in the skin, resulting in burns and scars. 
As laser treatment causes heat to build up in the skin, it is essential that the skin is cooled immediately after each session to ensure all excess heat is removed and prevent the skin from burning. You can also assist the healing of your skin by taking a number of precautions for 48 hours after each session – try to avoid getting the area too hot or wet, wear loose clothing and don’t participate in activities such as contact sports that could result in skin damage. 
More aftercare tips. Tattoo removal treatments should be spaced at least six weeks apart if you are treating the same area of skin. Any less than this will not give your skin sufficient time to recover from the previous treatment. Laser it again too quickly is likely to cause damage.
An experienced, qualified technician will apply the correct amount of laser pulses over the area for safe and effective removal. Cosmetics and perfumes should not be used on the treated area. More information about laser tattoo removal during your recovery time.
The positioning of your tattoo on your body plays a major part in how effectively it can be removed. The face, neck, and back all have high blood and lymph node counts, which make tattoo removal easier. Good rates of success can also be seen on the arms and legs.
- However, the further down your body your tattoo is, the harder it will generally be to remove;
- The older your tattoo, the more easily it can generally be removed with laser treatment;
- Tattoos tend to fade over time;
This makes older ink pigment easier to break down with a laser, so an old tattoo will take fewer sessions to remove than a more recent one. What makes tattoos permanent is the fact that the ink penetrates the second layer of skin – the dermis – which is then protected by the epidermis, the outer layer. 
Lifestyle factors can also play a huge part in the effectiveness of your tattoo removal treatment – smoking, in particular, is known to make tattoo removal take a lot longer. Research shows that if you smoke, you are 70 percent less likely to see an effective tattoo removal over a ten-session treatment. 
If you are undergoing laser tattoo removal treatment, it is highly recommended that you avoid exposure to the sun before, during and after your treatment. This is because tattoo removal becomes more difficult if your skin is tanned, and laser treatment cannot be performed at all on burnt skin. If you absolutely can’t avoid exposure to the sun, try not to stay in it for longer than ten minutes at a time, and keep a loose covering over the area of your skin that is being treated. 
More information about sun exposure during laser tattoo removal. Looking for a reputable laser tattoo removal clinic? Contact Premium Tattoo Removal Today! Premium Tattoo Removal 3033 Chimney Rock Rd. 77056 Houston TX Email: [email protected].
What’s the best tattoo removal method?
Laser removal – Most experts consider laser removal to be the most successful and cost-effective way to remove tattoos. Often, lasers don’t completely remove a tattoo. Instead, they significantly lighten or fade it so it’s much less noticeable. Today, most tattoos are removed with a Q-switched laser, which sends out energy in one strong pulse.
- This pulse of energy heats up the ink in your skin to dissolve it;
- You’ll need to receive a number of laser treatments over several weeks or longer to remove your tattoo;
- Older or less complex tattoos will require fewer sessions, while newer or more complex tattoos will require more;
If you have darker skin, you may want to consider Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment, which is less likely to change the color of dark skin than traditional Q-switched lasers. In general, it takes about 7 to 10 sessions to remove a tattoo with laser treatment.
- You’ll have to wait 6 to 8 weeks between sessions for best results;
- Following each session, you’ll want to follow any aftercare instructions you’re given;
- Usually, this will involve applying antibacterial ointment to your skin for several days;
The ointment will help heal your skin and reduce the risk of infection. Change the wound dressing each time you apply the ointment. For at least the next 2 weeks:
- Keep the treated area clean and dry.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing.
- Avoid exposing the treated area to direct sunlight.
- Don’t pick at any scabs or blisters that form.
Laser tattoo removal typically carries a lower risk of scarring than other removal options, just be sure not to pick at the area as it heals, as this can increase your risk of scarring.
Can salt and ice remove a tattoo?
Published on July 5, 2019 by Stephen Small The answer, in short, is NO! While you may see stories online about tattoo removal with a mixture of salt and water, this practice not only does not remove the tattoo, but also increases your risk of skin damage, infection and permanent scarring.
Can laser tattoo removal go wrong?
Rethinking that ink? If you’re not as in love with your tattoo as you once were, laser tattoo removal is a generally safe (albeit expensive) way to get the job done. Between our increased access to laser removal and the candidness with which celebrities showcase their use of it on social media (Khloé Kardashian, I’m talking to you), a permanent tattoo feels like less of a commitment.
But “they’re not like magic erasers,” as dermatologist Amy Wechsler, M. , previously told SELF—there’s more to it than you may think. Though lasers are helpful, efficient, and effective when it comes to tattoo removal, there are a bunch of misconceptions about what they can (and can’t) do.
Before you willingly get that questionable song lyric etched into your forearm—or take the plunge to have something old removed—here’s what you should know about the laser process first. Myth #1: It’s safe to get laser removal done anywhere it’s offered.
- Though laser centers and spas are popping up everywhere, it’s important to make sure laser removal is done by a dermatologist;
- “[Dermatologists] know what to recognize, how to look for a complication, and who not to treat,” Robert Anolik, M;
, a board-certified dermatologist, tells SELF. With laser tattoo removal, there’s a risk of bleeding, infection, and scarring, all of which can be successfully treated, but only under the proper care of a dermatologist. It’s up to you to check the qualifications of your practitioner.
- New Jersey is the only state that requires licensed physicians to operate a laser, meaning that in most places, the path to offering laser removal has fewer roadblocks than it should;
- Myth #2: Laser removal is a simple, quick, reliable, and easy solution to a bad tattoo;
“The big misconception with tattoo removal is that it’s an eraser,” Sherrif F. Ibrahim, M. , , an associate professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Rochester, tells SELF. But it’s not that simple. “It’s a process,” he says. Sometimes, complete removal of a tattoo can take one or two years, with treatments occurring every 6, 8, or 12 weeks.
Plus, it’s not like getting your eyebrows waxed—it’s an invasive procedure that costs hundreds of dollars a session. Lasers remove tattoos by blowing up pigment molecules into tiny pieces, which are then cleared away by an immune system response.
Healing from laser treatment isn’t always a walk in the park, either. “The laser breaks the skin’s surface, so you have bleeding, you have swelling, and you have pain after the treatment,” says Dr. Ibrahim. Myth #3: It isn’t painful to have a tattoo removed.
Laser tattoo removal can be painless, but that’s usually because practitioners can give you a numbing agent first. For larger tattoos where the removal process takes longer, a doctor can give you a lidocaine injection to numb the area, whereas a non-medical professional might not.
Smaller tattoos are technically just as painful to remove, as the laser settings reflect the color of the tattoo rather than its size. However, the pain you’d endure removing a small tattoo is less ongoing than that which you’d feel while removing a large tattoo, making it more bearable for some.
Myth #4: Laser removal is safe for everyone. Not everyone is an ideal candidate for laser removal. “Removal is always going to be more difficult in patients who have a darker skin tone based on laser physics and the way the laser works,” says Susan Bard, M.
, a board-certified dermatologist and a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery. “The laser targets pigment that’s in the dye, but at the same time, it can also target melanin in your skin. So, the darker your skin, the more complicated it will be to utilize a laser to remove the tattoo.
” Laser removal can cause burns and hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones. Myth #5: All tattoos are equally easy to remove. Not all tattoos are created equal. “Black tattoos are easier to remove than brightly colored tattoos.
Green and blue tend to be a little more challenging, and things like yellow, white, and purple are almost impossible to remove completely,” says Dr. Ibrahim. “Different wavelengths of laser target different colors in the skin,” says Dr. Bard. This is why multiple lasers are required for the successful removal of a multicolor tattoo—another reason to see a well-versed doctor for treatment.
- If you have laser removal done properly, you should see about 90 percent clearance on a tattoo, says Dr;
- Anolik;
- “You can’t be sure that you’re going to get 100 percent clearance on a tattoo, and that’s for a variety of reasons, including the type of ink and if [the tattoo] was done by a professional tattoo parlor,” he says;
“Professional tattoos tend to incorporate more colors and deposit more deeply into the dermis, making them more challenging. ” Amateur tattoos tend to be easier to remove, as they are often carbon-based, single-color, and placed more superficially. Dr. Ibrahim says the same goes for older tattoos, where the ink diffuses upward over time, making it easier to break up with a laser.
- Myth #6: If you had no reaction to getting a tattoo, you’ll have no reaction to getting it removed;
- It’s possible to have a smooth healing process after getting your tattoo, but still a poor reaction to laser removal;
For one, lasers can cause scarring and permanent skin discoloration that tattoos might not (aside from doing so in the obvious ways, of course). Alternatively, you may have had a bad reaction to the tattoo and want it taken off. In this case, says Dr. Bard, “the worst thing you can do is laser tattoo removal.
[Laser removal will] to break up the pigment and bring it into the lymph nodes, which will cause a systemic reaction everywhere. ” A systemic reaction puts a patient at risk for anaphylaxis , which is life threatening.
Alternative removal methods for people with allergies include surgically cutting the tattoo out or removing it with an abrasive laser, which removes the top layer of skin..
Do you poop out tattoo ink?
That ink doesn’t just evaporate into thin air: ‘Once shattered, the ink particles are recognized as waste and are eliminated in your waste,’ Sobel said. So, yep, you essentially poop out your tattoo.
Why is my tattoo raised after laser removal?
How to Deal – Frosting may not be very pleasant to look at, but don’t let appearances fool you. That your tattoo turns white and puffy is a good thing, as it means the laser has penetrated into your skin and into the tattoo pigment. There’s no cause for alarm here, though.
How can I speed up tattoo removal?
How many sessions does it take to remove a black tattoo?
How many sessions does it take to remove a tattoo? – As soon as Dr. Saxena determines that you are a good candidate for laser tattoo removal, we will prepare the treatment area by cleaning it and applying a topical anesthetic. We will then pass the device over the skin as it emits the laser energy.
The session time may vary based on the size of the tattoo, but this will be discussed during the consultation with Dr. Saxena. Sometimes, patients require multiple appointments before obvious results can be seen.
At this time, you will learn how many sessions it takes to remove a tattoo. Laser tattoo removal looks different for everyone since each person and their tattoo is unique. Although it is not possible to predict the number of sessions required for complete removal, most patients generally need 6 – 8 sessions.
How can I remove my permanent tattoo without laser?
What hurts more tattoo or laser removal?
Does Tattoo Removal Hurt More Than Getting Tattooed? – People have different levels of pain tolerance—and anxiety about pain—but laser tattoo removal feels less painful than getting tattooed. Many people compare the pain of tattoo removal to the discomfort caused by a sunburn.
Does tattoo removal hurt more on some parts of the body than others? Absolutely. The parts of the body where the skin is closer to the bone are more sensitive to a tattoo needle, meaning they’re also more sensitive to a laser.
One of Removery’s experienced technicians notes that getting a tattoo can feel like being licked by a cat’s rough tongue or being scratched with hot claws, depending on the tattoo’s location. How much does a tattoo hurt, compared to laser tattoo removal? Laser removal doesn’t usually feel as painful as being scratched with hot claws, but certain spots on the body will feel more sensitive than others.
Is tattoo removal very painful?
If something hurts when you put it on, it makes sense for it to not hurt when it’s taken off, right? Unfortunately, this isn’t always so. Removing a tattoo can hurt just as much, if not more, than getting it done. 84% of the participants in a study described the pain they went through while undergoing laser tattoo removal as moderate to extreme.
What hurts more laser or tattoo?
WHAT HURTS MORE, LASER HAIR REMOVAL OR TATTOO? – Pain or sensation from laser hair removal is often described as an elastic band snapping against the skin. In comparison to having a Tattoo, the pain difference is chalk and cheese. Getting a Tattoo is far more painful than laser hair removal.
How can I make my tattoo removal less painful?
About 30 to 45 minutes before your treatment, take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen calm your actual nerve endings, making the sensations less intense from the laser. This should be used in conjunction with a skin-numbing method as administered by your removal technician.
