Until just a few decades ago, tattoos were considered a counterculture phenomenon. These days, though, everyone from models and celebrities to college students and young professionals is getting new tattoos in record numbers. The problem with this trend is that while standards for beauty and personal expression change, tattoos are relatively permanent. The only effective way for someone to get rid of a tattoo that they regret is to undergo laser tattoo removal.
Common Reasons to Undergo Laser Tattoo Removal
Everyone has a different set of reasons for looking into Laser Tattoo Elimination services. Some people regret the impulsive decision to get permanent body art almost immediately, while others find that their once-beloved tattoos have faded over time or no longer reflect their current beliefs. Serious body art lovers may even undergo laser tattoo removal to start with a blank canvas when they want new ink instead of resorting to cover-ups.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
Laser Tattoo Elimination is a simple process. A technician simply calibrates the laser beam to target the dye colors used in the tattoo ink. Once the laser has broken up the ink, the person’s body can clear it out safely without causing damage to the skin. Most people need multiple sessions to get rid of a tattoo completely.
The Benefits of Laser Tattoo Removal
Before the perfection of laser tattoo removal in the 1980s, people had to resort to invasive and imprecise methods of tattoo removal such as dermabrasion or excision. These procedures caused significant skin damage and were quite painful. Laser tattoo removal, on the other hand, is non-invasive, effective, and unlikely to leave behind scars.
Laser Tattoo Elimination also requires minimal recovery. Most people resume their normal activities immediately after leaving the office. They may experience some redness, swelling, or scabbing, but these side effects are minor and last only a few days. Once the tattoo removal process is complete, people will no longer have to feel embarrassed or self-conscious over their past mistakes.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser Tattoo Elimination is a safe and effective process, but it works better for some people than others. The factors that influence whether someone will be a good candidate for laser tattoo removal include:
- The age of the tattoo
The colors of the tattoo
The depth of the pigment
The tone of the person’s skin
The good news is that just about everyone will see results from laser tattoo removal sessions. Patients will also be able to ask questions and find out what to expect during consultations before they begin the process, which means everyone should have a good idea of what to realistically expect once it is complete.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Painful?
A surprising number of people avoid having their tattoos removed because they are afraid it will be painful. Most of the ones who wind up undergoing the procedure find that they experience some discomfort, but it is far less painful than getting the tattoo, to begin with. Technicians can apply topical anesthetics to further reduce discomfort, as well.
Take the Next Step
The first step towards being free from that unwanted tattoo is to call a qualified dermatologist or laser spa to schedule a consultation. Bring along a list of questions and be prepared to answer a few from the doctor during this meeting. From there, the rest is a simple matter of showing up to each session on time and following basic aftercare instructions until the tattoo is gone.