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If you’ve gotten to the point where you no longer want a tattoo, whether it’s because you have regrets, or you want to replace one tattoo with another, then you’re probably happy to hear that tattoos are no longer considered permanent and most times they can successfully be removed or lightened.

There are certain things you should know about tattoo removal in order to have a successful outcome.

What is Laser Tattoo Removal?

​Laser Tattoo Removal works by targeting pigment colors in the skin’s dermis, the layer of skin between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissues. The laser targets the ink pigments which are then fragmented and absorbed into the body. Lasers target color and it may be necessary for your laser specialist to use multiple lasers. Black ink is the easiest to remove while other colors may require different lasers and can be more difficult to remove.

Which Tattoo Removal is Best?

There are three basic ways to remove a tattoo – cut away (ouch!) which can become infected and leave scars. Rubbed away (with dermabrasion) which can lead to infection or changes in your skin’s texture, or Laser Tattoo Removal, the safest and most effective treatment to remove a tattoo.

Do Tattoo Removal Kits Work? WARNING:

Never use a Do-It-Yourself removal product. These do-it-yourself kits contain acids and can cause harmful reactions.

How Good is Tattoo Removal?

 It’s important to remember that some tattoos may not disappear completely, so be sure and set your expectations by discussing your goals with a laser specialist. The photo below shows before tattoo removal and after 6 treatments. The image is almost completely gone and the rest faded away with more time.

How Many Treatments Are Needed? 

There’s no way to tell how many treatments will be needed until you see a laser specialist. Skin tone, age and location of the tattoo, ink colors are all important factors when making this determination.

Where Does Tattoo Removal Work Best?

 The fading is faster in tattoos that are located farther up on the limbs, closer to your heart where your pulse is the strongest.

When is Tattoo Removal Most Effective? 

The older a tattoo the better – older tattoos can be faded to begin with and will continue to fade more easily with laser treatments than newer ones. However, if there are skin changes that were covered up by ink you may have a "ghost” of your old tattoo.

What About Tattoos Applied by an Amateur? 

Tattoos done by an amateur can be easier to remove, but not always. It depends on the color ink used and how deep the ink penetrated your skin when it was put on. Most amateurs don’t have the equipment to apply the ink at equal depths so removal may be a bit trickier.

Does Skin Tone Affect Tattoo Removal?

The lighter the skin color the easier it is to remove the tattoo. To insure optimal results when you want to get a tattoo removed, it’s best to have removal done when your tan has faded.

 What is the Darkening Effect? 

Certain ink colors such as pink for a lip liner, may darken after treatment. This effect can be treated with multiple treatments. If this is a concern, then test a small area first.

Taking into consideration these ten steps will help in a successful outcome whether you want total or partial removal of your tattoo. The first step towards a successful removal of an unwanted tattoo is a consultation with your laser specialist at Caddell’s Laser Clinic. We are committed to teaming up with you to make your tattoo removal treatments a success!