Tattoos are some of the most common body art forms. But when an individual gets older or decides to change their style, tattoos are often removed. Many tattoo removal methods exist, but all have some disadvantages that prevent them from being 100% effective. Although there are numerous methods to remove tattoos, the most effective ones use lasers. Lasers work by breaking down the pigments in tattoos with short pulses of light energy. Once broken down, the body can then process and expel these pigment particles. However, there are cases where individuals do not see complete removal because tattoos contain colors that you cannot break up. This article looks at the different tattoo removal methods a Conroe tattoo removal specialist can recommend.
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Laser Tattoo Removal
Laser tattoo removal works by sending pulses of light to break down the pigments in tattoos. It’s easier to remove dark ink colors with lasers because they absorb better. Laser treatments are expensive and can take anywhere from 5-10 sessions for total removal, depending on the tattoo’s size, skin tone, how fast it heals, etc. However, there are some limitations to laser tattoo removal. Sometimes lasers can’t remove specific colors such as blues and greens because the light breaks them down into smaller particles that the body never expels. Laser also cannot target black tattoos very well and can leave a scar in its place. One must keep in mind that although laser treatments work better than other methods, they also come with more risks.
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Salabrasion and Dermabrasion
salabrasion and dermabrasion are abrasive techniques for removing tattoos. In both cases, a doctor sands down the skin with an abrasive material such as salt, sugar, or phenol to reveal the fresh skin that is then tattooed into place. The problem with these techniques is that they remove the skin, resulting in other issues such as scarring, infection, and pigment loss. It’s also costly to have done because it requires multiple sessions, which can get costly, plus the doctor must have an in-depth knowledge of how to tattoo on top of the skin after dermabrasion has been performed.
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Skin Excision
Skin Excision is the process of surgically removing tattoos. First, a doctor will numb the area with an anesthetic and then cut out the tattoo. Next, they will close off blood vessels to minimize bleeding and stitch up the wound. The major downside to this method is that it’s invasive and results in scarring around the treated area, which can be unsightly. Furthermore, it is complicated for a tattoo to be removed completely because the surgical process only removes the top layer of skin and, therefore, cannot target ink colors that are deeper in the skin. Plus, this method can lead to infection because incisions leave open wounds.
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Tattoo Removal Creams
Many tattoo removal creams are available online and in stores. However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that these products work. Sure, many contain the same chemicals used in laser treatments, but they also come with harmful side effects. Some of the most common ingredients in tattoo removal creams are benzyl peroxide which can cause crusting and lead to other skin problems such as scarring, burning, etc. Plus, these products can be costly and might not even work.
In summary, there are many methods to remove tattoos, but laser treatments are the most effective. Other options include dermabrasion, excision, and tattoo removal creams. However, most of these methods are ineffective and come with risks.