Do you regret your tattoo?

This hub provides information on different tattoo removal options and helps you determine which method will work the best for getting rid of your unwanted tattoo.

Before reviewing different tattoo removal options, it is good that you understand how a tattoo is made.

Human skins consist of 3 layers: the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous. The middle skin layer, called the dermis, is where all the ink pigments are inserted inside by the tattoo artist. The epidermis is the outer skin layer. Any inks appear in this layer will soon be removed by the body through natural cells replenishment process. A tattoo will lose its color if the ink is not fully deposited into the dermis. Therefore the tattoo equipment must be properly set up to ensure the needle reaches the middle skin consistently. The dermis is translucent, and therefore tattoo ink can be seen clearly from the surface of the skin.

In order to remove the ink pigments, all tattoo removal methods must act on the middle skin layer. Here are the common tattoo removal options:

1) Laser tattoo removal: Laser pulses are aimed and fired on the tattoo area to break up ink pigments embedded in the dermis, and the ink remnants are then absorbed and removed by the body’s defend system. Multiple laser lights with different wave lengths are used to treat different tattoo colors. Typically three types of lights are needed to remove all colors. A series of surgical treatments may be necessary to get rid of the entire tattoo. Therefore you’ll need to bear the high surgical cost, some degree of pain and a nasty scar.

2) Excision: This surgical method involves cutting away ink pigments, and it is good for a small tattoo. When the tattoo gets better, multiple surgeries are required as you can only cut out one small area at a time. A skin graft may be necessary for covering up the treated area. Scarring is expected.

3) Tattoo removal cream: One of the most popular tattoo removal options is the fading cream. Although it requires a relatively longer curing time, the technique is welcomed by many people as it is affordable, painless and can be done at the comfort of home. There will be no scar to handle.

4) Cryosurgery: A localized frostbite is created on the tattoo area with the use of liquid nitrogen spray. The skin tissue will be frozen and killed, and blistering will form and peeled off in the next 3 to 4 weeks. This technique is not new, and it is commonly used to treat and remove moles, warts, age spots, etc.

There are at least 15 safe and proven tattoo removal options available. You should examine the pros and cons of all the options before taking actions.