Laser Tattoo Removal is the safe and effective way to remove an unwanted tattoo or fade the appearance of a past one. It might take multiple sessions to see results, but the end result can be worth the time and expense.
Laser treatment for tattoo removal works by breaking down the ink in the skin into smaller particles, allowing the immune system to flush away the particles. Ink color plays a factor, with darker inks (like blacks and blues) being the easiest to remove, while colors like green, red, and yellow are the most difficult.
The location of the tattoo also matters. Because the body’s blood circulation is better in the heart and major blood vessels, tattoos in these areas will fade more quickly than those in other parts of the body with less blood flow. The number of treatments and duration of each treatment will vary by individual, but on average a tattoo can be removed in about five to eight sessions.
Before the tattoo removal begins, the practitioner will use a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort. Then the technician will place a hand-held device over the tattoo and activate the laser light repeatedly. The number of pulses depends on the size of the tattoo, with larger tattoos requiring more pulses than smaller ones.
During treatment, the patient will wear protective https://www.nuskinlaser.ca/services/laser-tattoo-removal eye shields to protect the eyes from the laser’s heat. After the treatment session is complete, the technician will clean the area and cover it with a bandage or non-stick dressing to help it heal. It is important to follow the post-treatment instructions carefully, as doing so reduces your risk of side effects such as bruising, blistering, and infection.
It is also a good idea to avoid sun exposure in the area of your treatment until it heals, as prolonged sunlight can cause the treated skin to develop a type of scar known as a keloid. Keloids are raised, swollen scars that can be quite disfiguring, and they are more likely to form on people with darker skin.
After the treatment, the area will feel a little bit like it has mild sunburn, but this should go away within a few hours. Your doctor may recommend putting an ice pack on the treated area right after treatment to decrease pain, swelling, and redness. You should also keep the area clean and apply a antibiotic ointment to prevent infection and help the skin heal.
When you are considering laser tattoo removal, it is vital to choose a qualified and experienced provider. A good NYC dermatologist will understand how to perform the procedure safely and effectively. They will provide detailed pre-treatment and post-treatment care instructions and answer all of your questions. They will also explain how tattoo removal can benefit different individuals, as well as factors that can impact the outcome of a treatment, including color and location of the tattoo, the amount of ink, and skin type.