How do Lasers Remove tattoos?
Lasers work by generating concentrated beams of light energy. The heat generated from the laser breaks up the ink particles- which are later cleared by the body’s normal scavenging system. Different lasers have different ability to penetrate the skin. Depending on size and complexity of the tattoo, several sessions may be required to remove the tattoo. The laser is selective for the tattoo and does not harm the normal skin or tissues. In general, superficial tattoo are easily removed and deeper tattoos may take some time. The laser does generate heat and there is some pain and blistering in some cases. Despite all the bragging about Lasers and their potential uses, the chance of scarring is always present.
Who is a Candidate for laser tattoo removal?
Those individuals with fair skin and superficially placed tattoos on the arms, chest, buttocks or legs are the best candidates. Dark skinned individuals with tattoos placed on the ears, ankles or the fingers are some of the most difficult to treat. Results of tattoo removal in dark skinned people, in general, is difficult and the results are mediocre at best.
What determines the success of tattoo removal?
The size, location and how deep the tattoo is placed affects the results. Because of better ink technology and improved skills of tattooer, the newer tattoos are more difficult to remove compared to the older ones.
Does Tattoo Removal Hurt?
Yes, nothing in life is painless and the same goes for tattoo removal. If you thought that it was painful applying a tattoo, then you will feel the same or slightly more pain when the tattoo is removed. The laser is basically a heating source and stings when it touches the skin. The pain is like a needle jab, but many times over. To decrease the pain, the physician will recommend taking a few over the counter pain medications before the procedure. Aspirin like products are not recommended because they have a tendency to increase the bruising.
To further decrease the pain, the physician may apply a local anesthetic ointment on the tattoo 30 minutes before the procedure. In some cases, the physician may inject a local anesthetic into the tattoo before the procedure. One can only imagine how much pain there may be if one goes to a tattoo parlor which does not have access to any of these pain medications.
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