How to Remove Permanent Tattoo?

For many, a permanent tattoo is a symbol of self-expression, personal beliefs, or simply a desire to mark a big moment in life. However, as time passes, the reasons behind getting a tattoo can change, and some may even regret their decision. Whether due to a shift in personal tastes, changes in lifestyle, or even professional requirements, the question arises: Can a permanent tattoo be removed? Is it actually possible?

Fortunately, with advancements in technology and medical procedures, tattoo removal is no longer a distant dream. It is, however, a process that requires careful consideration and knowledge of available options, potential side effects, and recovery times. 

If you are also contemplating the removal of your tattoo, this guide will offer a deeper understanding of the methods, risks, and post-removal care so that you can make the right decision.

Understanding How Tattoos Work

Before exploring removal techniques, it’s important to understand how tattoos are created and why they are permanent in the first place. A tattoo is made by inserting ink into the dermis, the second layer of skin beneath the epidermis. This is done through a needle that punctures the skin repeatedly, depositing pigments that remain trapped within the dermis.

The reason tattoos are considered permanent is because the ink particles are too large for the body’s immune system to remove. Over time, your body may naturally break down some of the pigment, but the tattoo generally remains visible.

The difficulty in removing tattoos arises because the pigment particles are lodged deep within the skin, which makes them difficult to target without damaging the surrounding tissues.

Tattoo Removal Methods

When it comes to removing a tattoo, there are a few viable options, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. The method you choose will depend on factors such as the size, colour, and location of the tattoo, as well as your skin type and overall health. Let’s look at the most common tattoo removal techniques:

Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal is currently the most popular and effective method for permanent tattoo removal. Let’s understand all the details about this technique:

• How It Works: It works by using high-intensity light beams that penetrate the skin to break down tattoo ink particles into tiny fragments. These smaller particles are then gradually flushed out by the body’s immune system. The type of laser used can vary depending on the ink color and the depth of the tattoo.
• Types of Lasers: The two most commonly used lasers for tattoo removal are:
  • Q-Switched Lasers: These lasers are the gold standard for tattoo removal, specifically for removing dark tattoos.
  • Picosecond Lasers: These newer lasers use ultra-short pulses to break down tattoo ink more effectively, often reducing the number of sessions needed.
• Benefits:
  • Minimal scarring: If done correctly, laser removal typically results in little to no scarring.
  • Targeted treatment: Lasers can target specific pigments, meaning different coloured tattoos may be treated with different types of lasers.
  • Effective for most tattoos: Whether the tattoo is black, blue, green, or red, there’s a laser technology that can effectively address it.
• Risks and Considerations:
  • Laser removal can be uncomfortable and may require anaesthesia depending on the size of the tattoo.
  • Multiple sessions (often 6-12 sessions) are required to fully remove a tattoo.
  • Side effects include skin irritation, temporary darkening or lightening of the skin, and in rare cases, scarring.

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision is the process of cutting out the tattooed skin and stitching the surrounding skin together. It is most suitable for small tattoos or for individuals who want immediate results.

• How It Works: The surgeon removes the skin containing the tattoo and then closes the wound with stitches. This method removes the tattoo entirely in one session. However, it is often used for smaller tattoos because larger tattoos would leave noticeable scars.
• Benefits:
  • Immediate removal: The tattoo is removed in one procedure.
  • Permanent results: Unlike other methods, surgical excision provides immediate, permanent results.
• Risks and Considerations:
  • Scarring: This method is likely to leave visible scars, making it unsuitable for larger tattoos or tattoos in visible areas.
  • Not suitable for large tattoos: For larger tattoos, multiple excisions might be required, increasing the risk of scarring.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a procedure that involves sanding the skin to remove the layers that contain the tattoo ink. The procedure essentially “grinds” the tattooed skin away using a high-speed rotary device.

• How It Works: A doctor will use a rotating tool to remove the outer layers of skin, effectively reducing the tattoo’s visibility. It is commonly used for superficial tattoos or when other options aren’t viable.
• Benefits:
  • Less expensive: Dermabrasion tends to be more affordable than laser treatment or surgery.
  • Effective for small tattoos: It can be effective in removing small tattoos, especially if they are close to the surface.
• Risks and Considerations:
  • Pain and discomfort: Dermabrasion can be quite painful, and local anaesthesia is typically used.
  • Scarring: The procedure can leave scars, particularly if the tattoo was deep or large.
  • Not suitable for large tattoos: This method is generally not effective for larger tattoos.

Tattoo Removal Creams

Tattoo removal creams are marketed as an affordable alternative to professional treatments. These creams claim to gradually fade tattoos by lightening the pigments over time.

• How It Works: These creams work by exfoliating the skin, with some containing active ingredients such as hydroquinone or glycolic acid to lighten the tattoo pigment. However, their effectiveness is highly debated.
• Benefits:
  • Low cost: Tattoo removal creams are significantly cheaper than professional procedures.
  • Ease of use: They can be applied at home, without the need for medical intervention.
• Risks and Considerations:
  • Ineffectiveness: Most tattoo removal creams have little to no effect on the tattoo’s pigment, especially on deeper or older tattoos.
  • Skin irritation: These creams can cause skin irritation, burns, or allergic reactions, particularly when used on sensitive skin.

Saline Tattoo Removal

Saline tattoo removal is a relatively new method that involves using a saline solution to remove tattoo pigment from the skin. It is similar to the process used for removing cosmetic tattoos (like eyebrow tattoos), but it can also be effective for traditional tattoos.

• How It Works: A solution of saline is injected into the tattooed skin, and the body reacts by pushing the pigment to the surface, where it can be sloughed off naturally.
• Benefits:
  • Less risk of scarring: This method has a lower risk of scarring compared to excision or dermabrasion.
  • Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, there are no cuts or stitches involved.
• Risks and Considerations:
  • Limited effectiveness: Saline removal works best on superficial tattoos but may not be as effective for deep or large tattoos.
  • Multiple sessions: Just like laser treatment, multiple sessions may be required.

Factors That Affect Tattoo Removal

Not all tattoos are created equal, and several factors can impact how effective the removal process will be:

• Tattoo Colour: Dark tattoos, particularly black and dark blue, are generally easier to remove with lasers. Bright and light colours, such as yellow and green, can be more challenging to remove and may require different laser wavelengths.
• Tattoo Size and Depth: Larger tattoos or those with deeper ink deposits tend to require more sessions for complete removal. Superficial tattoos are easier to treat and can be removed more quickly.
• Age of the Tattoo: Older tattoos may fade more easily because the ink has already started to break down, making them easier to remove. Newer tattoos are often harder to remove due to the ink’s deeper penetration into the skin.
• Skin Type: Skin type and colour can affect the removal process. Individuals with lighter skin tend to see better results with laser treatment compared to those with darker skin. This is because laser light targets pigments and may have difficulty distinguishing the pigment in dark skin tones.

What to Expect During the Removal Process?

The tattoo removal process varies depending on the method chosen. Here is a general overview of what you can expect:

Laser Treatment

During laser treatment, you can expect some discomfort, similar to the sensation of a rubber band snapping against your skin. Numbing creams or anaesthesia may be applied to help manage pain. After the session, the treated area will likely appear red, swollen, and slightly tender. This is a normal reaction, and these side effects usually subside within a few days. 

Following the procedure, you will need to follow strict aftercare instructions to minimise the risk of infection and promote proper healing. It’s common to require multiple sessions to achieve desired results, with each session spaced a few weeks apart.

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision involves a more invasive approach, with the area being numbed with local anaesthesia. After the procedure, expect some discomfort, and the treated area may feel sore. You will need to follow post-surgery care instructions to prevent infection and reduce scarring. The wound will be stitched, and careful aftercare is crucial to avoid complications. 

Recovery may take longer compared to other methods, and visible scarring is common, particularly for larger tattoos.

Dermabrasion and Saline Removal

While dermabrasion and saline removal cause less discomfort than surgery, you will still experience some irritation. Dermabrasion may leave the area feeling tender, and you could experience mild pain during the process. Similarly, saline removal may cause swelling or redness, but these effects are typically temporary. 

Both procedures require a careful aftercare routine to avoid complications such as infection and to support the healing process. Multiple sessions might be needed for complete removal.

Cost of Tattoo Removal

Here’s a table outlining the typical tattoo removal price in India based on various method

Factors that impact tattoo removal prices are:

• Tattoo Size: Larger tattoos will naturally cost more to remove due to the increased time and effort required.
• Tattoo Colour: Dark colours like black and blue are easier to remove and might cost less, while bright colours (red, green) can require more advanced treatments.
• Number of Sessions: Multiple sessions may be required, increasing the overall cost.
• Tattoo Location: Some areas of the body are more challenging to treat and may cost more.
• Clinic/Surgeon’s Expertise: Highly skilled professionals in reputed clinics may charge a premium for their services.

This table offers an estimated cost range, but it’s important to consult with a professional to get a more accurate price based on your tattoo’s specifics.

Wrapping Up

Removing a tattoo is a feasible option for those who wish to undo or alter their permanent ink. You can find multiple options tailored to different needs and budgets. Whether opting for laser treatment, surgical excision, or saline removal, each method comes with its own advantages and considerations. 

Tattoo removal price varies based on factors like tattoo size, location, and the number of sessions needed. So, always consult a skilled expert to know the best approach for your specific tattoo. Note that the process requires patience, but with proper aftercare, successful results can be achieved.