Getting rid of a tattoo isn't always easy. Some tattoo paints are so stubborn that the only way to remove a tattoo is through surgery where you would run the risk of scaring. But for most tattoos there are a number of methods that are often used to remove or get rid of them. The most popular technique these days is laser tattoo removal.

Lasers >

Laser removal uses rays of light (lasers) to penetrate the skin and to break up the tattoo ink just below the surface of the skin. The body will then absorb the broken up small particles and the tattoo will begin to fade eventually. Usually several treatments are needed to remove the tattoo completely. Each treatment removes about 20% of the tattoo. Laser removal is very painful and can be very expensive.

Creams >

There are various creams available on the market that can be used to 'fade away' the tattoo. According to the manufacturers of these creams, the creams work by breaking down the tattoo ink into smaller particles which are eventually absorbed by the body. This process is extremely slow and there is limited clinical evidence to support what is claimed on the labels of these creams

Cover Up >

If you have a hard-to-remove tattoo you can get a cover-up job done on it. This is where you get a tattoo done to cover the colors from the old tattoo. Just ensure that you use a really good tattoo artist so that you get it done properly.

Surgery >

Surgical Excision removes the tattoo by simply cutting away the skin. This technique is only effective on smaller tattoos, or if done in steps on a larger tattoo. A skin graft may be needed to replace the skin that has been taken away.

Dermabrasion >

With this technique the tattoo ink is removed by sanding. The tattoo area is first numbed or sprayed with a chemical that freezes it before a spinning tool, with an abrasive surface, is used on the tattoo.

Chemical Peels>

This is done by a trained doctor. A chemical compound is applied to the tattooed skin causing it to eventually peel off.

Before getting a tattoo, think about removal and how you would hide it if it was not possible to remove it. Also choose a design that can easily be covered up if all other removal methods fail.

Click here for more information about how to get rid of your tattoo and tattoo removal products and services.