Understanding Laser Tattoo Removal
Tattoos are a common way for people to express themselves. Yet not everyone who gets a tattoo is happy with it.
Historically, removing a tattoo required cutting out the skin, which left horrific scars just as visible as the tattoo. Today, the best way to remove a tattoo is with the use of special lasers over a series of treatments. While most people seek laser tattoo removal for cosmetic reasons, some people have medical reasons to seek care.
鈥淟aser tattoo removal is also used when someone has a traumatic injury,鈥 says Erika Summers, MD, a dermatologist at 香蕉视频 of Utah Health. 鈥淔or example, someone whose skin is stained after contact with asphalt due to a bike injury or a stain from a tire explosion.鈥
Preparing for Tattoo Removal
While laser removal is very effective, it does take time. Depending on the color of the tattoo, it can take up to two years of sessions, with treatment every six to eight weeks before it's gone. The process can also be painful, and knowing this in advance is important. A final factor to consider is that laser removal is expensive due to the number of sessions needed to completely remove a tattoo.
The Removal Process
Lasers remove tattoos by shattering the pigment underneath the skin. This disperses the color enough that it becomes invisible.
"The hardest pigment to break up is black," Summers explains. "Removing a professional black tattoo can take nine to 12 visits鈥攐r more鈥攂efore it finally fades. Blue or purple tattoos are the easiest to remove."
Before the removal process, a topical numbing compound is applied for pain management. Receiving injections or using ice to numb the skin prior to treatment can also help control pain.
Post-Session Care
Undergoing laser removal can cause blistering or mild scaling of the skin, so it鈥檚 important to keep the skin moist and out of the sun. Most doctors recommend applying petroleum jelly, which helps protect the tender area from further damage until it heals.
Risk of Infection
While laser tattoo removal is generally safe, improper after-care can increase the risk of infection. The treated area is essentially an open wound, making it vulnerable to bacteria. Signs of infection include:
- Increased redness
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Pain
- Discharge of pus
To minimize risk, keep the area clean, avoid picking at scabs or blisters, and follow all post-treatment care instructions provided by your dermatologist. If an infection develops, you may need topical or oral antibiotics to prevent complications.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Complications from laser tattoo removal are rare, but there are instances where immediate medical attention is necessary. Patients should seek emergency care if they experience:
- Excessive bleeding
- Severe pain that does not improve with standard pain management
- Rapidly spreading redness or swelling
- Fever
- Red streaks radiating from the treated area
These symptoms may indicate a serious infection or an allergic reaction requiring urgent treatment. Consulting a dermatologist or visiting an emergency room promptly can prevent further health risks.
