Laser Tattoo Removal

A tattoo is a grouping of ink and dye particles that is imbedded beneath the top layer of the skin. Because the body is not able to absorb such concentrated deposits of ink, it forms a protective layer of collagen around the tattoo (making it permanent). Each year, thousands of people decide they no longer want their tattoo(s). Laser tattoo removal is a non-invasive procedure that can completely remove tattoos, leaving one's skin looking scarless and, most importantly, spotless.

Types of Tattoos

There are three basic types of tattoos. The first, and most popular, is the decorative tattoo. This type varies greatly, from the type of ink used, to the colors and size, to the depth of the tattoo. The second style of tattoo is the cosmetic type. Many woman have permanent cosmetic "tattoos" for their eyeliner, lip liner, or eyebrows. Cosmetic "tattoos" are also used to cover up scars or blemishes. The final example is an "injury tattoo," created by a past accident or trauma, and includes dirt, pencil marks, etc. that have become permanently imbedded under the skin.

The Process

In the past, tattoos were removed through methods such as dermabrasion, salabrasion, cryosurgery, or acid injections. All of these approaches left either serious scarring on the skin or unpigmented, "blotchy" areas where the tattoo used to be. Lasers for tattoo removal eliminate these unfortunate side effects. Lasers send pulses of high energy light into the skin, fragmenting the tattoo ink into thousands of tiny particles. These tiny particles are small enough to be gradually absorbed and dispersed by the body. There is usually some slight discomfort during the treatment, although a local anesthetic eliminates any pain. Since different lasers (that create different light colors) are needed to erase specific colors in a tattoo, multi-colored tattoos require several treatments to completely erase.

Following the Treatment

Following each treatment, the skin may be red or tender, have a light crusting, and may bleed slightly. These conditions gradually subside in 3 to 7 days. Most physicians allow 4-8 weeks between each treatment for the skin to heal and for the body to absorb and dissolve the ink.