Tattoo Removal Forum

Laser tattoo removal is very similar to other laser pigmentation procedures. Lasers work by producing short pulses of intense light that pass directly through the top layers of the skin and are absorbed by the tattoo pigment. The energy emitted by the laser causes the tattoo pigment to break into smaller particles that are eventually removed by the body's immune system. This procedure is effective because the laser targets the pigment of the tattoo without damaging the skin.

The biggest factor in this laser procedure is the depth and density of the tattoo ink. Each procedure further fragments the ink by penetrating deeper into the skin. This procedure has been the most effective on those with fair to medium skin color. Oftentimes this procedure will not work on those with dark skin because the lasers are affected by the ability to distinguish between skin color and ink pigment.

The best laser tattoo removal candidates are those with fair to medium skin color and those that have tattoos that are not particularly dark or deep:

• The lighter the skin color the easier it is for the laser to be able to distinguish between skin and ink. With fair skin, the laser easily passes through the skin directly to the ink pigment. In those with darker skin, there is a greater risk of burning by the laser because it can not tell the difference between skin color and ink pigment.

• The overall density and depth of the ink will determine the number of procedures required. Each procedure causes the laser to go deeper under the skin in order to fragment the ink. The darker and deeper the ink, the longer it will take to completely eradicate.

• Superficial ink usually leads to the quickest results. This type of ink is closest to the skins surface, so the laser will not need to penetrate as deeply.

Areas with good circulation, like the chest, arms, and buttocks are the most effective places for laser tattoo removal treatment. Increased blood flow allows for quicker removal of ink through the immune system. Areas with poor circulation are harder to treat.

Unfortunately both receiving and removing tattoo’s can be somewhat uncomfortable, but most patients experience minimal pain. When the laser is penetrating through the skin, it is most often described as feeling similar to the snap of a rubber band. Many doctors recommend taking non-aspirin pain medication before the procedure to reduce any discomfort. Products containing aspirin or anti-inflammatory ailments are not recommended because they have been known to produce pronounced bruising post treatment.

Other alternatives for reducing discomfort are either the application of an anesthetic cream or injection of a local anesthetic. Blistering and scabbing often follow each treatment therefore it is imperative to take care of the treated area in order to prevent permanent scaring.

Depending on the tattoo, and the number of visits required, the prices may vary. Laser tattoo removal will most likely take multiple treatments to fully remove the tattoo. Many amateur tattoos take at least one to four treatments that are scheduled anywhere from four to eight weeks apart. Professional tattoos usually require a more intense process and therefore take anywhere from six to ten treatments that are scheduled about every two months.

Because this is considered an aesthetic procedure, most insurance companies will not cover the cost of this procedure. Average session costs range anywhere from $250.00 to $850.00. This all depends on the size, location, depth and density of the tattoo.