Methods used in Tattoo Removal?

Lasers

Lasers are nowdays the most popular treament for the removal of Tattoos as they are often seen as an effective alternative to the number of other treatments currently available.  Three different types of laser are used in the Laser Tattoo Removal process and depending on the colours contained within the Tattoo will depend on which type of Laser is used. The easiest colours to remove are Blue and Black  with Yellow and Green being the most difficult. The Tattoo is removed by using a technique called Q-Switching which refers to the short, high energy pulses of the Laser.

Ink extraction Procedure

In recent years we have seen an ink extraction method being widely promoted primarily in North America and Europe.  This procedure involves removing the ink pigments from the body by treating the top of the skin with

a series of dots similar to the way a tattoo is applied by the tattooist. However, instead of the use of ink, a specially designed remover is used in the process (which through the bodies natual healing process) scabs over and over the course of a few weeks, falls off taking the ink with it.

Chemical peel

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a chemical peel, used as an intermediate to deep peeling agent in concentrations ranging from 20-50%. Depth of penetration is increased as concentration increases, with 50% TCA penetrating into the reticular dermis. Concentrations higher than 35% are not recommended because of the high risk of scarring.

Trichloroacetic acid peels:

are preferred for darker-skinned patients over Phenol

smooth out fine surface wrinkles

remove superficial blemishes

correct skin pigment problems

Trichloroacetic acid peels may:

require pre-treatment with Retin-A or AHA creams

require repeat treatment to maintain results

require the use of sunblock for several months (this is a must)

take several days to heal depending on the peel depth – Source Wiki

Dermabrasion

The method of Dermabrasion involves the sanding of the skin

Excision

The Tattoo is cut out using Excision

Fade away

There are a number of companies promoting the “Fade Away* method of removing Tattoos,

whereby a cream is rubbed and absorbed into the skin and over a period of time breaking down the ink components

inside the Tattoo.  Over time the Tattoo becomes lighter and lighter, hence the name “Fade Away”

Cover up

Some wearers opt to cover an unwanted tattoo with a new tattoo. This is commonly known as a cover-up. An artfully done cover-up may render the old tattoo completely invisible, though this will depend largely on the size, style, colours and techniques used on the old tattoo. Some shops and artists use laser removal machines to break down and lighten undesired tattoos to make coverage with a new tattoo easier. Since tattoo ink is translucent, covering up a previous tattoo necessitates darker tones in the new tattoo to effectively hide the older, unwanted piece. – Source Wiki