What to Consider Before You Remove Your Tattoo

We all do silly things when we’re younger and for many, tattoos fall into that category.

Things happen and more people regret their tattoos than you might realise. Fortunately, removal is an option but there are a few things that you should consider first.

Where tattoos were once something your parents warned you about because they were permanent, today, this is no longer a concern. Laser has made it possible to erase the name of your ex or the cartoon character you hate looking at, but before you schedule an appointment at a cosmetic clinic, this is what you need to know.

Things to Consider before Removing a Tattoo

1. The location of your tattoo will make a difference

You may have thought long and hard about the location of your tattoo when you were planning it but did you know that it also makes a difference to your removal results? The closer your tattoo is to your heart, the better the blood circulation and the faster it will fade. Tattoos that are located further away from the heart will need more removal sessions.

2. This is going to be a long-term commitment

If you were hoping you could remove your tattoo in two sessions or less, you would be sadly mistaken. The average tattoo will require five to ten sessions to remove and sessions need to be scheduled six to eight weeks apart to give your body enough time to get rid of the shattered ink particles and for the skin to heal. So, if you’re planning your removal around a big event, the sooner you can start the better.

3. Realistic expectations are a must

Many people don’t realise that there is a real chance your skin won’t look exactly the way that it used to once your tattoo has been removed. While it is certainly possible to remove the entire tattoo, sometimes faint lines are left behind or the skin can look slightly discoloured, which is why it’s important to approach tattoo removal with realistic expectations. These laser tattoo removal details & gallery will give you a better idea of what you can expect in terms of results.

4. There may be side effects

As with any type of cosmetic procedure, side effects are normal and can include redness and small blisters. Some of the less-common side effects include keloid scarring, hyperpigmentation and infection but the right laser technician will be able to minimise any side effects.

5. It’s not going to be a completely comfortable process

While laser tattoo removal isn’t off-the-charts painful, it’s not going to be completely pleasant either. Topical numbing creams can alleviate some of the discomfort but there is a good chance that you will experience some pain during your sessions. If you absolutely hate pain and you don’t know how you got through the tattoo application to begin with, you may want to reconsider whether removal is the right option for you. With that being said, most people are able to handle the sensation of the laser against their skin.

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