In the past, people had few options for getting rid of tattoos, however recent changes have given us the 5 best tattoo removal methods that we will discuss here.
Tattoo Removal History
Previously, tattoo removal methods could be invasive and have varying success rates. Having a tattoo removed used to be painful and uncertain, but there have been recent changes in the field of tattoo removal used by professional tattoo removal specialists. People in the past have tried rubs, creams and Acid Peels, although there seems to be mixed feelings about just how they perform. If you are considering a quality tattoo elimination, the best thing to do it look at all recent options that are out there and see which method fits you best.
Laser Removal
Before lasers came into use for the removal of tattoos in the 1980s, tattoo removal methods involved painful, often scar-inducing surgeries. Lasers remove tattoos by emitting non-invasive bursts of light that move harmlessly through the top layers of the skin and are absorbed by the pigments of the tattoo. The light energy fragments the colors into tiny pieces that the immune system can easily extract. There are some misconceptions around using lasers, but laser removal is seen as one of the most effective methods of tattoo removal available today.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is where skin is “sanded” to remove the surface and middle layers of the skin. The method uses a wire brush or diamond fraise (similar to a sander) to rub down the layers of skin. This option can be slightly painful, may result in some scarring and generally isn’t used often.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery is the tattoo removal option of freezing the tattooed area prior to its removal.
Excision
Excision is a method of removal where the tattoo is cut out with a scalpel and the wound is stitched. For larger tattoos, often a skin graft will be used with skin from the patients body.
Salabrasion
Tattoos may also be removed using a high salt solution where the tattoo is soaked in the liquid to lighten the pigment. This is called Salabrasion. This option can be used in combination with other methods to increase the effectiveness. The method is only effective for superficial tattoos and may need many repeat treatments before results are seen.
Summary
Although all of the above procedures above are presently used in select circumstances, laser treatment is now the standard of the 5 best tattoo removal methods because they offer a bloodless, low risk, effective alternative with low side effects. Every treatment is handled as an outpatient treatment in a single or series of visits. Some patients may need a topical or local anesthesia.
