For laser tattoo removal to be safe and effective, the person removing the tattoo must consider many things, including your health.
Dermatologists have the medical training needed to consider your health and the health of your skin. They know who can safely have laser tattoo removal.
Has a tattoo lost its appeal? Does your permanent makeup look less attractive than you imagined? If you’re thinking about removing either, you should know one key fact:
Lasers have largely replaced other tattoo-removal methods.
Thanks to recent advances in laser technology, today’s lasers can:
- Get rid of tattoos more safely and effectively.
- Remove tattoo ink with fewer treatments.
- Treat ink colors that were once difficult to remove.
There’s actually a lot to consider before removing a tattoo. This includes:
- How long you’ve had the tattoo
- How deeply the ink penetrates your skin
- The colors in your tattoo
- Where the tattoo appears on your body
- Your health
- The medicines you take
- If you’ve ever had a raised scar
A consultation can be helpful for you, too. It gives you an opportunity to ask questions. You may want to ask to see before-and-after photos of patients your dermatologist has treated with laser tattoo removal. Seeing these photos can show you what to expect.
Is laser tattoo removal safe for everyone?
Most people can safely have laser tattoo removal. There are a few exceptions. You need a healthy immune system for laser tattoo removal to work. And, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not be treated.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Laser tattoo removal can feel uncomfortable or painful. To prevent discomfort and pain, a dermatologist can give you a numbing cream or shot.
Is there anything that I can do to improve my results?
Yes, you play a key role in the results you see. Doing the following will help you to achieve the best results and reduce your risk of side effects:
- Keep all of your appointments for laser tattoo removal. Too often, people stop treatment before they see optimal results. Each treatment removes more ink.
- Follow your dermatologist’s instructions for at-home care. You may need to wash the area and apply an antibiotic ointment for a few days. Slathering on moisturizer and covering the area until the skin heals are also important.
- Protect your treated skin from the sun for 3 months. The best way to protect your skin is to wear clothing that covers the area. The clothing covering your treated skin must block light completely.