Everything You Need To Know About Laser Tattoo Removal

While the craze for tattoos is growing, their removal is also becoming a common affair across all age groups. From getting rid of the name of your ex-flame to removing a skull you inked on your triceps as a quirky teenager, there are ample regrettable tattoos which people wish to eliminate from their bodies.

Whether it is a way to move on in life or to become a part of a social circle that doesn’t approve of your artistic expression, more and more people are embracing the laser tattoo removal technology. Thanks to the advancing techniques, tattoos are no longer permanent and can be erased effectively.

Laser tattoo removal in Melbourne and other metropolitan cities has become easily accessible and affordable. So if you are planning to remove an old tattoo, you must get familiar with everything related to the procedure. Let us help you understand all the minor and major details of this technology.

How Laser Technology Helps?

For a long time, it was believed that tattoos are indelible, but laser technology has debunked this myth. A tattoo is created with the insertion of ink into the dermis layer of the skin where it stays until it is removed through some procedure.

Laser tattoo removal works on breaking the pigment colour of the ink with the help of a high-intensity light beam. The ink is broken down to microscopic level particles which are flushed out by the lymphatic system of the body.

It is easiest to remove tattoos made with black ink as the black pigment absorbs all laser wavelengths. Other pigments need different lasers which are decided by a trained professional after evaluating your tattoo.

How Long Does The Treatment Take?

The removal procedure is not completed in one session. You will have to undergo several treatment sessions, and these will depend on the size, age, depth and colour of your tattoo as well as your skin tone. You will witness the lightening of the tattoo with each session.

It can take anywhere close to eight to fifteen treatments to get rid of the tattoo completely. However, the number varies from person to person as a lot of other factors decide this timeline. The treatments have to be 8 weeks apart or more depending on the tattoo.

The waiting period is essential to allow the skin to remove the pigments and heal for the next treatment. You can inquire about the exact number of sittings required from a trained professional. However, you must prepare yourself for at least 10 sessions including consultation.

Is The Treatment Painful?

The intensity of pain is also dependent on the age and size of the tattoo. Smaller tattoos need fewer pulses while large ones need more pulses. It does make you uncomfortable, but it is not unbearable. It also depends on the individual’s pain endurance ability.

However, it does not require anaesthesia. In some cases, a topical anaesthesia cream can be applied before starting the procedure. An icepack can be used to soothe the inflamed area immediately after the treatment and you must follow it up with the application of antibiotic cream and bandage.

If you are going out in the sun, then it is recommended to cover the treated area with sunblock. You must keep the area clean at all times to avoid the risk of infection.

Is The Colour Of The Tattoo A Concern?

It can become a concern if you have a colourful tattoo with multiple hues. A trained professional can guide you on the successful removal of each pigment. The dark shades are easy to remove while the lighter ones need more sessions. Also, the pigments that comprise titanium dioxide such as fluorescent shades can be challenging to remove.

Does The Location Of The Tattoo Affect Removal?

It may come to you as a surprise, but the location of the tattoo plays a significant part in the successful removal of the ink. According to experts and research, tattoos on the body parts which have a high level of blood circulation are easier to remove.

So the tattoos which are closer to the heart, such as your chest, nape and shoulders will take less time to fade. On the contrary, tattoos which are located far away from the heart, such as ankles will require more sessions.

Are There Any Side Effects Of Laser Tattoo Removal?

Laser tattoo removal technique is much safer than other medical treatments, such as excision, as it only works on the pigment. People with sensitive skin can face some side effects such as inflammation or irritation, but effective care of the treated area with prescribed ointments and a bandage can help in keeping infection and redness at bay.

Endnote

To ensure successful removal of a tattoo, it is imperative that you consult a reputable cosmetic and dermal clinic which specialises in laser tattoo removal in Melbourne. Discuss your skin type and the length of the treatment with the professional and enjoy tattoo-free skin forever.