Tattoos are a popular trend worldwide, but they have been around for centuries in different forms. According to evidence, the oldest human tattoos were found around 3100 BC. Since then, tattoos have been evolving, and they can now be found in their most advanced forms.
Just like the tradition of getting tattoos is old, so is the mantra that tattoos are permanent. Generally, anyone getting a tattoo is aware that it is a permanent life choice, and most people don’t get tattoos to remove them later. But what if someone has a questionable tattoo from their teenage years that they don’t want on their bodies now? That’s when tattoo removal techniques come into play.
Nowadays, the cosmetic industry has made extensive progress and developed a number of tattoo removal techniques. These techniques can help remove or at least lighten your disastrous tattoos from a rebellious phase in life. Below, you can continue reading to learn everything you need to know about tattoo removal techniques.
What is tattoo removal?
In the most straightforward words, tattoo removal is the method of removing unwanted tattoos from the body. Many people undergo this treatment because they have an old tattoo that they don’t like now. Besides this reason, people also want to get rid of faded or blurred tattoos.
They may also want to clear up some space on their bodies for new tattoos, so they go for tattoo removal. In some severe cases, individuals may develop an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink, leading to infections. Due to this, getting rid of the tattoo will become inevitable, and a tattoo removal treatment can help in this regard.
Common Techniques for Tattoo Removal
There are different techniques used for removing unwanted tattoos from the body. Some commonly used techniques for tattoo removal include:
- Dermabrasion
- Laser Tattoo Removal
- Surgical Tattoo Removal
Now, let’s discuss each technique in detail below.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is also known as surgical skin planing, is a surgical tattoo removal technique. A plastic surgeon numbs the skin during the procedure and then sands it down to the deeper level. For this purpose, he/she will use a high-speed rotary device having an abrasive brush or wheel. As a result of this skin resurfacing procedure, the tattoo ink will leach out of the skin, thereby removing the tattoo.
Laser tattoo removal
Laser tattoo removal is the most preferred technique for removing unwanted tattoos. The expert uses an advanced laser machine to target the tattoo pigment in the skin during the procedure. Before applying the laser, they will numb the skin with topical or local anesthesia to avoid any discomfort. When he/she targets the tattoo using a laser, it will break the pigment into tiny particles.
It is easier to remove black tattoos than colored ones. Usually, it takes more than one session and different lasers to remove colored tattoos.
Surgical Tattoo Removal
Since it is an invasive method, the recovery period is extended, usually taking up to 2,3 weeks. During this time, the skin may feel sore and raw, for which the practitioner may suggest a topical ointment or using ice packs. It will help the skin heal sooner.
Laser Tattoo Removal
In surgical tattoo removal, the surgeon surgically removes a tattoo. During the procedure, he/she will administer local or general anesthesia to the skin. Once the skin is numbed, he/she will remove the tattoo using a scalpel and then stitch the skin together.
Although this procedure deletes the tattoo, it leaves a scar. Therefore, many people avoid going for surgical tattoo removal.
Is tattoo removal painful?
The tattoo removal procedure is a minimally invasive procedure that uses different techniques. We have discussed both surgical and non-surgical techniques above, and almost all of them involve some degree of pain. Generally, no tattoo removal procedure is entirely pain-free. Moreover, if you have gotten a tattoo, your pain threshold may be better than others.
Dermabrasion is an abrasive method that makes the skin sore, and it is usually painful. On the other hand, the laser tattoo removal procedure does not cause pain, but the laser is extremely hot, which may cause discomfort. Surgical tattoo removal is a painful procedure and cannot be performed without anesthesia.
Although tattoo removal treatments are not entirely pain-free, they are performed under topical, local, or general anesthesia. Due to this, the patient feels minimal to no discomfort at all during the procedure.
How many treatment sessions will I need?
Only an expert can determine the number of sessions each individual needs for their tattoo removal. Every patient has different conditions and requirements, which affects the number of required sessions.
Generally, tattoo removal sessions depend on the following factors:
- Age of the tattoo
- Location of the tattoo
- Ink color of the tattoo
- How the tattoo was placed (professional vs. amateur)
- Treatment technique
- Type of laser
- Practitioner’s expertise
Video: YouTube/Amiya Prasad, M.D
Most practitioners take about 10-20 sessions to remove unwanted tattoos, while others claim to remove them in 6-8 sessions. So, it depends on the factors mentioned above that how long will it take them to get rid of each individual’s tattoo.
How to take care of the skin after the tattoo removal process
After tattoo removal, the skin becomes sore and raw and remains that way for at least 3-5 days. Most practitioners in Dubai tattoo removal provide aftercare instructions to patients before tattoo removal. Some general instructions are as follows:
- Apply an antibiotic healing cream on the treated area for at least three days.
- Do not use any makeup or skincare products on the treated area.
- Keep the treated area away from heat and water.
- Use bandages to protect the treated area until it heals fully.
In a Nutshell
Tattoo removal is not as difficult as it used to be in the past. However, it is still not a piece of cake and requires proper preparation. So, candidates should consult an expert before going under the knife. Only an expert can guide each individual according to their specific needs and expectations. If you want to get rid of an unwanted tattoo, please consult an expert in your area, and they will guide you.
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