Laser Tattoo Removal 

Tattoos have become increasingly popular today, especially in metropolitan and developed cities. They are a symbol of fashion or the transformation of an important event into something memorable. Tattoos are permanently inked into your body and cannot be removed. Earlier, surgical removal was possible, but it had its share of drawbacks, like pain, discomfort, unpredictable results, and permanent scarring.  

However, with advanced technology and cutting-edge innovation, tattoos can be removed easily and minimally invasively. The limitations of surgical removal led to the rise of laser tattoo removal treatment. Lasers used for tattoo removal by dermatologists (doctors specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the skin, hair, and nails) offer excellent results with minimal scarring.  

What is Tattoo Removal?

A tattoo is a permanent depiction, image, or body modification in which an artist injects special dyes and inks into your skin. These ink particles are foreign substances inked into your body, but since they are large, your immune system cannot easily remove them. Thus, the pigments remain inked into your body permanently below the skin surface.  

Tattoo removal involves procedures to remove this permanent ink from your body. It is a complex procedure that requires several sessions to complete. There are several tattoo removal options, the most common and popular being laser tattoo removal.  

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

Laser tattoo removal helps diminish the appearance of unwanted tattoos. Your dermatologist will use lasers to emit high-intensity light pulses during the procedure. This light targets the permanent ink inside your tattoo but leaves the skin around it unharmed. As the ink absorbs the light, it begins to heat up. The heat energy makes the ink break down into small particles. Your immune system will be able to clear the tiny particles of ink, and the tattoo will begin to fade gradually.  

What to Expect During Laser Tattoo Removal?

In general, this is what you can expect during a laser tattoo removal session:

• Your dermatologist will take a picture of your tattoo for a "before and after" reference.
• You will be given a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the laser light.
• The area to be treated will be cleaned and allowed to dry.
• If you have darker skin, your doctor may put a cold pack or a cooling gel on the targeted area.
• The targeted area will be numbed with a local anesthetic shot or cream.
• Your doctor will first perform a patch test on your skin to check for any reactions to laser light. This can also help the doctor determine the type of laser and technique that will offer the best results. 
• Different wavelengths of pulses of light are emitted from the laser device to the targeted area for a fraction of 5 to 10 seconds. 
• Your doctor will pass the laser over your tattoo several times. 
• You are expected to feel a slight burning or a normal tingling sensation.
• However, inform your doctor if you feel a lot of pain so that the wavelength of the laser light can be changed if needed.  

You may require several sessions of laser emission, and the tattoo may get lighter after each session. Each session may take somewhere around 10 to 15 minutes.  

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Laser tattoo removal can be uncomfortable, but most patients tolerate it well due to the use of numbing agents in the form of injectables or numbing creams. Furthermore, dermatologists use cooling gels or ice packs after the procedure to ease discomfort, soreness, and swelling.  

Your doctor may also prescribe pain medications before and after laser tattoo removal treatment. The pain intensity felt depends on the location of the tattoo and the kind of lasers used by doctors.  

How to Care for Your Skin After Laser Tattoo Removal?

Your doctor or dermatologist will guide you on caring for your skin after each laser tattoo removal session.  

The following tips can help your skin heal and prevent scarring: 

Use an Ice Pack

• Putting ice immediately after a laser session can reduce pain and swelling and promote healing. 

Apply Antibiotic Cream

• Using an antibiotic cream for a few days after a laser tattoo removal session will help prevent infections.
• These ointments can also soothe your skin. 

Use a Bandage or Wrap

• Wear a bandage or a wrap on the treated skin, and remember to change it often. 
• This will keep your skin dry and prevent infections.
• Cover the treated area until it heals well. 

Put Petroleum Jelly or Moisturizer

• Put a jelly or moisturizer on the treated skin with a cotton swab or cloth. 
• This keeps the area moist and prevents the scabs or blisters from sticking to the bandage.

Keep The Area Clean

• Wash the treated area gently with water and unscented soap and pat it dry. 
• Do not soak the skin in water or scrub it. 

Avoid Tight Clothing 

• Wearing tight clothes can irritate the treated area and make it more painful. 
• Loose clothing can let your skin breathe and heal.

Use Sunscreen

• Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid direct and excess sun exposure. 
• Light from the sun can irritate the skin and interfere with the laser treatment, making it less effective. 

Don't Scratch the Treated Skin

• Picking or scratching the treated skin can lead to scarring. 
• Do not scratch your skin, and let it heal optimally. 

What Are the Benefits of Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment?

Laser tattoo removal treatment is an excellent alternative to surgical removal due to the following benefits:

• The procedure is minimally invasive and safe
• It is less time-consuming
• It does not require hospitalization 
• It causes less or no pain due to the use of an anesthetic agent 
• It causes minimal or no scarring 
• There are minimal side effects associated with the procedure
• Laser therapy helps remove tattoos of all sizes 
• The laser equipment used is FDA-approved
• The recovery time after laser tattoo removal treatment is limited  

Are There Any Side Effects of Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment?

As with any procedure, there are potential risks associated with laser tattoo removal treatment. However, these side effects are minimal and temporary. They resolve on their own gradually. The side effects include the following:

• Mild scarring 
• Risk of infection
• Skin discoloration
• Skin irritation or rash
• Mild pain or discomfort  

Conclusion 

"Think before you ink!"- As the old proverb goes, it is important to re-consider before getting a tattoo. Since tattoos are always permanent, getting them removed can be very painful. But not anymore! With recent advances in laser technology, you can remove your tattoos easily with minimal invasiveness and scarring. But remember to get laser tattoo removal treatment by a qualified dermatologist and modern laser equipment. These are considerably safe and effective when compared to conventional surgical methods that leave behind ugly scars.