Some ways to permanently remove a tattoo from the skin, done in a tattoo studio, are laser treatment, dermabrasion or surgery, which may be recommended by the dermatologist, depending on the size of the tattoo, location and colors.
Generally, the easiest tattoos to remove are henna tattoos or permanent tattoos that do not contain black ink or dark colors, as well as those that were done less than 1 year ago, for example.
In no case is it recommended to try to remove the tattoo using salt or lemon, for example, as this can cause skin irritation and increase the risk of burns. The ideal is to consult a dermatologist because if the appropriate method is not used, there is a greater risk of a granulomatous allergic reaction or secondary infection, for example.
How to get a permanent tattoo
Some techniques for removing a permanent tattoo are:
1. Laser
The laser to remove a permanent tattoo is one of the most used methods and consists of applying a concentrated beam of light, which penetrates the skin and destroys the layers of ink, eliminating the design from the skin.
According to the amount of ink and color, different types of lasers with different wavelengths can be indicated, which include:
- Laser QS-NdYAGwith a wavelength of 1064 nm, which is effective in removing black and blue color tattoos, and a wavelength of 532 nm, which is effective in removing red, orange and yellow color tattoo;
- Laser QS Rubywith a wavelength of 694 nm, which is effective in removing black, green, blue and purple tattoos;
- Laser QS Alexandritewith a wavelength of 755 nm, which is effective in removing black, green, blue and purple tattoos.
In the case of tattoos with different colors, it may be necessary to use several wavelengths, with treatment normally starting with a higher wavelength and then shorter wavelengths.
Laser treatment may require more than 10 sessions to remove all the ink from the tattoo, depending on the size and colors of the design. The more sessions necessary, the more damage will be caused to the skin, which can lead to blisters and scars, in some cases. Find out what to do to treat the scar left by the laser.
If you want to get a permanent tattoo, schedule an appointment with the closest dermatologist in your area:
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2. Creams
Tattoo removal creams, such as TatBGone or Tattoo-Off, can be used at home and help to lighten the tattoo over several months, without creating any type of skin damage or pain.
However, this type of treatment is not as effective as laser and may not completely remove the tattoo.
3. Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a method for removing a permanent tattoo that uses a high-speed device, with an abrasive disc, to remove the superficial layers of the skin, allowing the ink to come out of the skin, helping to make the tattoo lighter.
This treatment can also cause pain like laser treatment, and recovery time can vary from around 2 to 3 weeks.
4. Surgery
Tattoo removal can also be done through surgery by removing the tattooed skin, however, this method is not used as often due to the fact that it leaves more visible scars, and is recommended mainly for small tattoos.
Furthermore, surgery is recommended in cases where the person has an allergic reaction to the tattoo pigment, and immediate removal is important to avoid possible complications.
How to remove a henna tattoo
To remove a henna tattoo it is important to follow the following steps:
- Dip the area in warm soapy water or place a towel with warm water on the skin;
- Mix water with salt, adding one part salt for each part water;
- Soak a clean gauze in the water and salt mixture;
- Rub the gauze over the tattoo for about 20 minutes;
- Wash the skin with warm water and soap;
- Apply moisturizing cream to the treated area.
If the tattoo does not disappear completely, it is recommended to repeat the process 2 to 3 times a day until the ink disappears completely.
Care after tattoo removal
After removing the tattoo, it is important to take some precautions to prevent the skin from becoming stained or scarred, and it is recommended that the person eat a healthy diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, in addition to drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Furthermore, as it is common for crusts or blisters to form, especially after laser treatment, it is important not to remove the crusts or burst the blisters and apply the ointment recommended by the dermatologist, as this can speed up recovery.
