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If what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas is true, then why do many come home with a tattoo as a reminder and regret? Obviously not everyone who acquires a tattoo received it from a "wild" weekend, but many who have tattoos often have remorse. Thankfully for those remorseful mistakes there is laser tattoo removal. While there are many options available for tattoo removal, laser tattoo removal is the most common and successful way to eliminate the pigmented design in the skin.
A tattoo is a permanent mark made when pigment or ink has been injected into the deeper layer of skin. Because the marks is supposed to be permanent, it can often be difficult and a long process to remove. How does tattoo laser removal work? Laser light energy is directed at the ink or pigments within the skin. As the laser hits its target, it causes the pigment to break up. The body's immune system surrounds and eliminates the disrupted ink as healing takes place. Immediately after treatment the skin over the tattoo will appear white or gray in color. In some instances pin point bleeding may occur along with scabbing. Over the next few days to weeks the area will heal, taking with it a portion of the pigment. Total healing takes 6-8 weeks and then the area can be retreated.
Many report that laser tattoo removal feels as if hot rubber bands are being snapped at the skin. For this reason many practitioners offer topical anesthetic to numb the portion of the skin to be treated. Many will also offer a cold air skin cooling system, which is applied continuously during the treatment for added comfort. After the procedure an antibiotic ointment is typically applied as well as a gauze dressing. The area is covered for at least 24 hours and any scabs are not to be picked or scratched.
Side effects and complications associated with laser tattoo removal include pin point bleeding, swelling, scabbing, infection and possible scarring. Again, because a tattoo is supposed to be permanent, there are no guarantees for complete removal. An average of 3-15 sessions is required for effective results. These numbers can vary depending on several factors: the color, density and depth of the ink, size, how old the tattoo is, and whether the tattoo is amateur or professional. Black tattoos generally have the most successful results, while white or tan colors are more difficult to remove. Typically 8 weeks are needed between treatments to allow for complete healing, making tattoo removal for some a long drawn out process.
Unfortunately laser tattoo remove usually costs several times the price of the original tattoo. The price of a tattoo can range from one set price for a simple design to a per hour charge, anywhere from $50 to a few hundred dollars an hour. Laser removal of a tattoo can range from $50 and up per session. Because the number of treatments is not exact, the average cost for removal can get quite costly.
When a tattoo needs to be removed, laser tattoo removal is the most effective choice. Consult with your laser tattoo removal specialist to find out how laser can make that regret a thing of the past. |
