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Tattoo art on the skin can mean different things to different people. For many that may mean regret. While there are various reasons for acquiring a tattoo there are just as many for wanting the tattoo removed. Tattoos are pigments injected deep within the skin to represent a design or symbol. They are supposed to be permanent and because of this it is often very difficult to remove them. There are several methods available to remove tattoos. It is a safe statement that the removal of the tattoo will cost exponentially more money than to have it put on.
Tattoo removal cost will vary depending upon the type of treatment option chosen. Topical creams are generally used to fade the tattoos. They are applied to the site at least daily and work to slough off the top layers of skin, thereby lightening the ink colors. Often the effectiveness of these topical treatments is ambiguous. The cost for these creams can begin at around $40. Several weeks to months of applications may be required to lighten the colors with no guarantee of effectiveness.
Salabrasion for tattoo removal is probably the least expensive way to attempt to lighten or remove a tattoo. Salabrasion utilizes the process of scraping and sanding the skin with sea salts. Constant rubbing is required to wear down the layers of skin. Scabbing and extensive scarring can result. Infection can also be a risk with this method. While the method can be done at home for relatively pennies on the dollar, the risks and costs of scarring and possible infection needs to be taken into consideration.
Dermabrasion will surgically sand and scrape away the top dermal layers of skin to remove the tattoo ink. Done usually under a twilight or general anesthesia, a rotary abrasive brush is applied to the skin to remove the skin and ink. Risks include scabbing, hyper pigmentation, hypo pigmentation, infection and scarring. Several weeks to months are needed for final results. Costs for dermabrasion can begin in the hundreds of dollar range and go up from there, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. Additional costs include anesthesia and after medical care that may be required.
Excisions as a method of tattoo removal will cut the tattoo out of the skin. This will remove all of the ink and depending on the size and location may only require one session. Cost for the excision will depend upon the physician performing the treatment and the type of anesthesia used. Typically the risk is trading the tattoo for a scar, as one will definitely be the result.
Laser tattoo removal costs can range from $50- $500 or more per session. For some it may cost up to $10,000 for the removal of a tattoo. Laser uses light energy to break up the ink, while the body removes it through a natural healing process. While side effects can be scabbing, bruising, scarring and pigmentation changes, laser is the most proven effective method for tattoo removal.
There are several options and costs for tattoo removal. Weigh the pros and cons of each before making your decision. Discuss your options with a trained professional to determine which method is best for you and your budget. |
