Tattoos can be a right of passage ... a mark of manhood, or it might simply be a stupid mistake you made when you are young. For others it is a way to permanently remember an event in your life. Whatever the reason you've decided to get ink, inevitably you will get to the point in your life when you want to remove part or all of the art.
Perhaps you’ve had children or changed careers. Maybe you get so much attention for your back tattoo that it distracts from your career. A Van Halen show from 1991 on your shoulder blade or a White Zombie skull on your ankle are reminders of a different you—maybe one you want to move on from. If you’ve decided that this tattoo you once loved no longer works for where you are in your life, there are a few options for getting the tattoo removed. Here are five of the top methods for tattoo removal that you can explore right now.
Laser Removal
Perhaps the most widely recognized tattoo removal method is visiting a dermatologist or laser surgeon for laser tattoo removal. Laser surgery uses pulses of light at high concentration to remove the tattoo. Treatment efficacy depends on the size, colors, and ink concentration of the tattoo.
Checking the specifics of your tattoo will require an initial consultation with a specialist. In addition, several treatments may be required in order to successfully remove the tattoo. Laser surgery may leave you with long-term scarring, blisters, and pain in the area where your tattoo was removed.
Dermabrasion
Another method of tattoo removal is dermabrasion. You should talk to a dermatologist to see if this method of removal will work for you. With dermabrasion, your skin is numbed and then "sanded" down so that the layer of skin is replaced with fresh, unblemished skin.
Dermabrasion for tattoo removal will not work for all tattoos. This method of tattoo removal can be rather expensive and will also leave the area where the dermabrasion happens rather sore. If your skin is fair and prone to pigmentation, you may wish to consider another method of tattoo removal.
Plastic Surgery
Depending on the size of your tattoo, you may actually be able to undergo a small surgical procedure to remove it. Doctors will actually go in and physically cut out the tattoo, then attach the remaining skin back together, leaving a small scar. This method works best for smaller tattoos, but you will still be left with a small scar. So depending on the location and size of your tattoo, this might be a method to consider.
Creams
Consider removing a tattoo with creams if you’re looking for a less invasive option. If you haven't seen these type of creams yet, you should check them out. Creams are an inexpensive and far less painful solution to getting rid of your tattoo.
One caveat is that you are going to need to be diligent in applying these creams at the same time every day for an extended period of time. Many of these creams require application twice daily. You are going to have to use these applications longer than any of the above-listed methods. However, you can use the cream from the comfort of your own home, and there is no pain involved.
Remember that not all tattoos are the same, so you need to do what is right for you and your particular situation. There are far more options for tattoo removal than you may have previously known. Creams are a great option for those who don't want surgery or more painful removal options. Larger and darker tattoos may need stronger interventions such as laser removal, dermabrasion, or surgery. Always consult your physician to see which removal method is right for you.
