Laser tattoo removal may be performed if you want to get rid of a tattoo that you no longer like. Tattoos used to be considered permanent, but today, there are various methods to remove them. Laser tattoo removal employs laser beams of various wavelengths that will neutralize the ink that is inserted under the skin.
Myth: Laser Tattoo Removal Is Extremely Painful
Fact: Laser tattoo removal is performed using a device that emits laser beams. The lasers will break down the ink and this will be absorbed in the bloodstream. When touching the skin, the laser beams will not cause major pain, but may give a burning or tingling sensation. Numbing creams or coolers may be used during the surgery to eliminate discomfort. Tattoos that are located on muscles are more painful to remove than ones that are on a layer of fatty tissues.
Myth: Laser Tattoo Removal Requires Extensive Downtime
Fact: Laser tattoo removal may irritate the skin and it may cause minor swelling and redness; however, the downtime after a laser tattoo removal session is less than five days, depending on each patient in part.
Myth: Laser Tattoo Removal Causes Scarring
Fact: People believe that lasers can cause scars; in fact the lasers don’t cause any scars, unlike other surgical methods used to cover tattoos such as skin grafting. In the past, lasers used to cause scars, due to the fact that the wavelength of the laser beams was not suited for the skin; however, today, the technology is perfected and it causes no scarring.
Myth: The Tattoo Can Be Removed in One Session
Fact: Typically, a tattoo cannot be removed in only one session when lasers are used. One session can fade the ink, but several sessions will be needed for a complete removal of the tattoo. The number of sessions required depends on the size and the colors of the tattoo. Black tattoos are easier to remove with laser beams, while colored tattoos will require more work.
Myth: Laser Tattoo Removal Is Pricey
Fact: Even though laser tattoo removal is considered an expensive procedure, this is not always the case. The cost of the removal will depend on a few factors including the size of the tattoo, the colors used, the type of ink, the age and the location of the tattoo. However, when compared to surgery, the costs of laser tattoo removal are typically lower.
Myth: Dermabarsion Is More Effective than Laser Tattoo Removal
Fact: Dermabrasion is a method that may be used to get rid of tattoos and it involves sanding the skin with a rough disk. This method will remove the superficial layers of the skin, but if the ink is in deeper layers, the tattoo will be still visible. In addition, this method causes a lot of irritation and requires a long recovery period.
Myth: Creams Are as Effective as Laser Tattoo Removal
Fact: While there are various tattoo removal creams on the market, these are not able to fully eliminate the ink. The tattoos may fade after using these creams, but the results of laser tattoo removal are more successful. Specialists say that these creams may have several undesired side effects such as irritation and swelling.
