Tattoo Removal

If you have a tattoo that you don’t want any more, it may be possible to have it removed. Tattoo removal can break down the ink in your tattoo so that it gradually fades.

What to Expect

Tattoo removal is a simple procedure that uses a laser to break down the ink. The fragments of ink will then be absorbed into your bloodstream and safely eliminated from your body. During the treatment, you may be given protective goggles and your skin can be numbed with anaesthetic cream. The handheld laser device will then be held against the tattoo. You might feel a sensation a bit like having a rubber band snapped against your skin, but it shouldn’t be painful. The treatment usually takes between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on the size of the tattoo.

Most people will have some redness or irritation after laser treatment, which can be reduced with aloe vera gel or an ice pack. Some bleeding, blistering or scabbing may develop after later treatment sessions. Your skin will also be more sensitive to the sun, so you should cover up and use sunscreen. The tattoo will begin to fade after the first treatment, but you may need ten or more treatments to get rid of the tattoo completely.

To find out more about tattoo removal, make an appointment with Harley Street Surgery in London.

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Should You Have Your Tattoo Removed?

You might want to have a tattoo removed because you regret getting it, there was a problem with the design, or it has stretched or changed over the years. However, having a tattoo removed can be just as big a decision as getting a new tattoo, so it is important to think about it carefully.

Tattoo removal is usually very successful, but it takes time and the results can vary. Complete removal isn’t always possible and some colours, such as yellow, green and purple can take longer to remove. There is also a small risk of scarring or pigmentation changes that could leave you with a patch of slightly lighter or darker skin. The removal process can be less effective on tanned or darker skin, and it is also unsuitable for women during the early stages of pregnancy.