There are a lot of reasons you may find yourself with an unwanted tattoo……impulse decision, dare, different season of life, a former belief that no longer represents you, displeased with final appearance, etc. Fortunately, there are options available to get rid of unwanted tattoos.
The first step is making sure you are ready to have the tattoo removed. The removal process can be lengthy and patience is key. Laser treatments are the most common and effective method for removing tattoos. During the procedure, the laser emits pulses of light that break up the ink particles. The ink particles are then removed by the body via the lymphatic system.
At Essence, we use the Harmony XL Pro Q-Switched Laser for tattoo removal. This laser is effective at removing blue, black, red, green, and yellow ink. The number of treatments needed and length of time to achieve full removal will vary depending on size, color, and location of the tattoo. Cosmetic tattoos are less predictable than body tattoos; therefore, a test spot is often performed prior to treating the entire area.
A topical numbing medication will be applied to the treatment area for 30 minutes. The area will then be cleansed thoroughly. Safety eye wear will be provided. Most people describe the procedure as a rubber band snapping sensation. Following the treatment, a light layer of Aquaphor and a light dressing will be applied to the area.
There are many aspects to consider when determining the number of treatments required to remove a tattoo. The size, colors, location, and technique are all factors and results vary from person to person. Most people can expect to see significant fading after 6 to 12 treatments, which are generally scheduled every 8 to 12 weeks.