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6 Common Myths about Tattoo Removal Debunked

More and more people are getting tattoos in recent years because society has become more accepting of them. While tattoos are generally beautiful, there are times when a person who has one would like to get them removed for various reasons, such as a change of taste or a breakup. The good news is that tattoo removal these days is an easy process.

However, tattoo removal is also plagued with many myths and misconceptions, like many things. These myths range from the common to the outlandish and might be having a person think twice about whether or not they should get a tattoo removed. Regardless, it’s worth knowing some of these myths and distinguishing fact from fiction. These include:

#1 – A Tattoo Removal Cream Is More than Enough

No topical treatment alone is sufficient to remove a tattoo. Although some creams are available, they cannot remove a tattoo in totality because they can only reduce it but not altogether. Some creams cannot even reduce the tattoo by more than 50%. Laser removal is still the best way to thoroughly remove a tattoo because it goes deep in the dermis, which is the layer of the skin where the tattoo ink is placed.

#2 – You Can’t Remove New Tattoos

Let’s say you got a tattoo that has been on your skin for at least a month. After thinking it over, you decide it isn’t for you and want it out. Not being able to remove new tattoos is a myth because the tattoo is still only a few weeks old and is still fresh enough to be removed. However, it would be harder to remove if the tattoo has been there for a long time because the ink will have penetrated deep into your skin.

#3 – Laser Tattoo Removal Is Painful

While some say that getting tattoo removal with a laser is painful, this is not true. Most of those who have undergone laser tattoo removal procedures state that the treatment is purely painless, and sometimes the person is not even aware that the laser is being used. Even though a few people say that the treatment hurts, it is highly possible that the pain just wasn’t that bad for them.

No matter what kind of tattoo removal methods you use on your tattoo, you should never forget to be careful about your choice and make sure that you do it only if you are sure that you no longer want that tattoo.

#4 – Laser Tattoo Removal Leaves behind Scars

Tattoo removal with laser is a safe way to remove a tattoo in a short amount of time, with no known risks. Some people are concerned that the laser would leave behind noticeable scars or other disfiguring marks. This is a myth because the laser uses a beam of light that passes through the skin’s epidermis, which holds the ink. The laser passes through the epidermis at high speeds to remove the ink by breaking down its components.

#5 – You Only Need One Session to Remove a Tattoo Completely

This is another false belief about tattoo removal. Most people think you only need a laser session for tattoo removal, but this is not true. If you don’t have enough sessions, you will still see the tattoo. To altogether remove a tattoo, you need to have at least 4 to 6 sessions, depending on your skin type and the tattoo itself. Each session will only remove some tattoo ink, but it’s essential to have enough sessions to remove the tattoo entirely.

#6 – Tattoo Removal Causes Infections

In most cases, an infection would occur after the tattoo removal, not during it. The tattoo is done in a sterile environment, and the ink is removed in the same manner. Some people disagree when they see a friend who had laser tattoo removal and experienced an infection, but this is very uncommon.

Conclusion

Tattoo removal is not always a bad thing. Removing your tattoo may sound scary and painful, but if you know you are going to regret it later on, it’s definitely worth the cost and effort. Remember to be knowledgeable when you remove your tattoo to ensure that you get the best results.

SKYN® provides top-quality services for tattoo removal in Perth. Our skilled and experienced dermatologists will ensure that traces of your tattoo will be removed like it wasn’t there before, and we also provide other skin and cosmetic treatment services. Reach out today for a consultation!

Ready to get started?

For a consultation, or to book in for a treatment, call SKYN 08 9389 9022 or request an appointment online.

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Laser Tattoo Removal FAQs You’d Want a Skin Expert to Answer Part II

Hundreds of thousands have tattoos and among them, a huge number also wish to have some of their pieces removed. Thankfully, laser tattoo removal has long been proven to be an effective method in removing or fading tattoos. But because it’s still relatively new, many have a lot of questions about laser tattoo removal.

 

Some of those questions we have addressed in the first part of this post. And now, we are going to answer a few more questions that we believe you should know about laser tattoo removal:

Why Does One’s Medical History Matter When Getting Tattoo Removals?

Most dermatologists who perform tattoo removal procedures have their own set of “rules” when it comes to their patients’ medical history. It is important to know that when it comes to tattoos, having any past medical condition does not necessarily mean that you can’t have a tattoo removed. Rather, some of these conditions might require special attention to lessen the possibility of complications.

People who have had any of these diseases should see a dermatologist before having their tattoos removed:

  • HIV/AIDS
  • Heart disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy
  • Acne
  • Acne scars
  • Lupus
  • Freckles
  • Herpes
  • Porphyria
  • Hereditary or genetic disorders
  • Excessive alcohol or drug use
  • History of keloids

 

Does Skin Type Affect the Effectivity of Tattoo Removal?

Yes, it does. Skin type is one of the major factors that will determine the effectiveness of tattoo removal. The skin is classified according to the Fitzpatrick Scale, which is basically a series of six types, from type 1 to type 6.

A person with type 1 skin is the fairest skin among all the types. Type 4 is the darkest skin. A person with type 1 skin is usually not prone to hyperpigmentation (also called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and does not need as much laser energy as a person with a darker skin tone.

Nevertheless, a person with a darker skin tone can still have excellent results from laser tattoo removal, provided that dark skin colour did not come from birth. Skin colour that is due to sun exposure or hormones, such as the case in liver spots, melasma, or pregnancy mask, would be good types to have their tattoos removed.

 

What Is a Laser Tattoo Modification or Cover-Up?

Laser tattoo modifications and cover-ups are basically a process where the colour of one’s tattoo is changed or covered up by adding more colour to the tattoo. The idea is to make the tattoo artist’s design less noticeable.

But laser tattoo modifications are not the same as laser tattoo removal. They can go hand in hand, but they can also be done separately. A laser tattoo removal will remove the original ink underneath your skin. A laser tattoo modification, on the other hand, will go over the original tattoo so that the design is still visible but the colour will have a different shade.

 

How Is Amateur Tattoo Different From Professional Tattoo?

A professional tattoo is done by a licensed tattoo artist. He or she will design your tattoo to look exactly as you want. If ever you are not satisfied with the design of your tattoo, you can return to your tattoo artist for an additional payment for a second session.

An amateur tattoo is usually done by a friend or a family member who is not a licensed tattoo artist. Amateur tattoos can result in uneven lines, bleeding, infection, or other complications. They are essentially permanent.

 

Conclusion

Tattoo removal is a delicate process. It involves different lasers that have different wavelengths and power settings. Different people experience different side effects as well. Therefore, before you decide to have a tattoo removed, you should consult with a laser tattoo removal expert.

SKYN is a trusted aesthetic clinic in Perth that offers laser tattoo removal along with other services. Contact us today so we can set up a consultation for you!

Ready to get started?

For a consultation, or to book in for a treatment, call SKYN 08 9389 9022 or request an appointment online.

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Laser Tattoo Removal FAQs You’d Want a Skin Expert to Answer Part I

After months or years of thinking, you’ve finally decided to get rid of your tattoo. Now it is time to learn all that you can so you can prepare for your first laser tattoo removal session. To get optimal results, there are some things you should do prior to your treatment. Likewise, there are some activities you need to avoid. Mental preparation is essential, too, and should start at least a few weeks before your appointment, so do not wait until the last minute to prepare for your tattoo laser removal. For you to understand the process, we are answering your top laser tattoo removal FAQs.

Why Is the Tattoo’s Location an Important Factor?

The location of your tattoo is the first and most important factor in the process of tattoo removal. Light, small tattoos can be removed in less than three laser treatments, but larger tattoos need more than three treatments because the laser only targets black pigment. If the tattoo is big and it comes in many colours, more treatments will be required.

 

Can Laser Remove All Tattoo Colours?

The tattoo ink used by amateur artists is easy to remove. Sometimes, it fades completely in one or two sessions. Some colours are harder to remove than others, though. Metallic green, for example, can take up to fifteen sessions or even more. In addition, fading red tattoos is both time- and energy-consuming. Blue and yellow tattoos also present a challenge since they do not fade away fast. Multicoloured tattoos that are partially green can be very challenging, too.

 

Does the Size of the Tattoo Matter?

Another laser tattoo removal FAQ is about the size of your tattoo. The number of laser tattoo removal sessions required for larger tattoos is increased because your immune system can only clear a certain amount of ink at every session. Large tattoos like sleeves may take up to 20 sessions to remove. With large tattoos, we highly recommend partial removal or fading for cover-ups. Small tattoos usually require fewer sessions.

 

What Is Tattoo Layering and Why Is It Important in Removals?

As you already know, removing a tattoo is not an easy task. Different colours of ink are located in different layers of skin. The first layers of the skin can be removed with the most powerful lasers, but the layers at the bottom of the skin are very difficult to remove. Whenever you see a tattoo, remember that it is buried in the skin and not just on top of it. This is why you see that some tattoos can be easily removed while others resist laser removal.

 

How Many Sessions Will It Take to Remove a Tattoo?

The amount of sessions required to completely remove a tattoo depends on the size and location, as well as the ink colours used. In general, the forearm takes 6-10 sessions, the calf takes 5-10 sessions, and the thigh takes 8-12 sessions. The head and neck also need from 8-12 sessions, and the chest and back need around 8-15 sessions.

 

Conclusion

After reading this, you have learned the basics of laser tattoo removal. The next thing you need to do is look for a reputable laser tattoo removal clinic. Reach out and ask about the preparations you need to do. After doing all the preparation, you are ready to book your first appointment. Make sure you are healthy enough for treatments and be informed about your next sessions, too.

SKYN is an established aesthetics clinic that offers an array of services, including laser tattoo removal in Perth. Contact us today to book a consultation with our tattoo removal experts!

Ready to get started?

For a consultation, or to book in for a treatment, call SKYN 08 9389 9022 or request an appointment online.

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Answering Common Questions about Laser Tattoo Removal

People make mistakes. Some you notice from the get-go, and others later on in life. Tattoos are an example of the latter, except they’re more permanent, and you show them off on your skin.

Do you have permanent tattoos that you regret? If so, you’re likely considering a cover-up or laser tattoo removal. This article will help you make a better, more informed decision as it answers some commonly asked questions about laser tattoo removal.

1. Will Laser Tattoo Removal Leave a Scar?

Laser tattoo removal involves breaking up the tattoo ink into smaller particles. That’s what allows the skin to absorb the fragments of ink. It also allows your skin to heal from the process and get rid of the tattoo.

Since the ink gets broken up and absorbed by your skin, there’s no evidence of the tattoo left. Also, it’s very rare for patients to form scars after a procedure unless they already have an existing scar under their tattoo.

2. Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Pain is relative to every individual. Some people experience minimal discomfort, while others don’t feel pain at all. A general rule of thumb is that the darker your tattoo, the more painful it will be. Additionally, the more complex the design, the more discomfort you’ll experience.

A few patients have described the pain as feeling like a rubber band snap against your skin. Some also likened it to getting a tattoo. If you survived your tattoo session, you can get through a laser tattoo removal.

3. How Many Sessions Does Laser Tattoo Removal Require?

The number of sessions you need depends on how much ink is in your tattoo. Generally, more ink will require more sessions. The number of sessions also depends on how your skin reacts to the laser.

Some people require three to six sessions, with ten weeks of break between each treatment. The final session could take place six months to one year after your first session. Having a large tattoo will require multiple sessions because the body absorbs ink fragments at varying rates.

4. Are There Any Side Effects?

If you react to the laser, you may notice some discomfort. This discomfort could include reddening of your skin or little bumps that appear and disappear on their own. You can take ibuprofen or aspirin before your treatment to minimise the chances of side effects.

After your first treatment, you might have minor soreness and reddening. Both are normal and will go away a few days after your procedure. You might also notice some crusting on your skin after the treatment.

5. How Does One Prepare for Laser Tattoo Removal?

Before your treatment, let your doctor know if you take any medications or discover a new allergy. They will have similar questions regarding your medical history and any medications you’re taking. Be honest because laser tattoo removal is not a joke.

Discuss your pain management plan with your doctor if you need to take any medications. If you are a smoker, you must quit before your treatment because it interferes with blood flow to the area.

6. Is There Aftercare Involved?

Following your procedure, your doctor will give you directions for aftercare. These instructions might include avoiding the sun and using skincare products. It’s also a good idea to avoid using an anti-itch lotion for a few days after your treatment.

This aftercare will help your skin heal from the procedure. Afterwards, you may notice some redness, swelling, and itching.

Conclusion

Think of the tattoos you regret as lessons learned. If you have a tattoo you don’t like, it’s not too late to have it removed. However, it’s important to be realistic with your expectations regarding the cost of laser tattoo removal.

If you’re looking for a clinic that offers laser tattoo removal in Perth, consider booking with SKYN. We are Perth’s Premier Aesthetics Clinic, offering various cosmetic treatments. Contact us today to learn more about our laser tattoo removal procedure.

Ready to get started?

For a consultation, or to book in for a treatment, call SKYN 08 9389 9022 or request an appointment online.

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Can Laser Tattoo Removal Get Rid of Tattoos Completely

If a tattoo has left a permanent mark on your body that you no longer want, laser tattoo removal seems like a good option. When it comes to the removal of an unwanted tattoo, Laser tattoo removal services have gotten a lot of attention lately. However, is this procedure as effective as it is being made out to be? This blog post will give you the answers you need.

Laser Tattoo Removal: Can It Get Rid of Tattoos Completely?

With the rising popularity of tattoo removal, these days, laser tattoo removal services are being promoted as an effective and efficient form of tattoo removal. Some even claim that laser tattoo removal can get rid of tattoos completely. However, is this statement true? Let’s find out.

The answer to this question is yes and no. Laser tattoo removal is not a miracle cure for your body marks. The fact is that a tattoo will never completely disappear even after the process is done. The laser tattoo removal process can leave you with virtually zero colour, and it will be hard to tell that there was a tattoo there to begin with. However, there are several steps to this process.

How Do Lasers Remove Unwanted Tattoos?

The first step is the removal of dark colours. Most of the time, dark colours are the first to go during the laser tattoo removal process. While this is only the first step, it is also the most crucial.

There are several reasons why dark colours disappear first during the laser removal process. First, the colour of the ink is actually very dark, and once the laser hits the ink, it can be easily vaporized. The dark colours are also denser than the other colours in a tattoo.

What to Expect

Redness, swelling, slight blistering, a little itching, and raised areas are common and should be expected after treatment. The skin will feel tender and sensitive at first. It should take a maximum of two weeks for these responses to subside.

Is It Safe?

Laser removal is by far the safest and most effective method of removing a tattoo when done by an experienced professional. In fact, it’s the only method that can break down the ink without breaking the skin.

Conclusion

Tattoo removal is something that you should definitely consider if you want to get rid of something that you are not happy with. However, it is important to understand that laser tattoo removal is not a miracle cure that will get rid of everything at once. You can expect that people will not be able to see the tattoo once the procedure is done, but it will not be completely gone. Laser tattoo removal is a safe and effective long-term treatment for tattoos.

If you are interested in or procedures for laser tattoo removal in Perth, come to SKYN! Achieve long-lasting, exceptional and natural results with our skilled and experienced skin experts. Book an appointment today!

Ready to get started?

For a consultation, or to book in for a treatment, call SKYN 08 9389 9022 or request an appointment online.

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My Laser Tattoo Removal Journey

My laser tattoo removal journey with SKYN®. Why I got it, how it feels, how it heals and progress after two sessions.

 

Getting your partner’s name tattooed on you – aka the kiss of death. I thought I had beaten the system, vying for the safest option. My tattoo was in a hidden location – my upper thigh. I also swerved the use of their name, using my boyfriend’s logo (he was a musician). I deduced that no matter the future outcome of our relationship, it would be out of sight and I could live with a weird little worm (see pictures).

 

Spoiler alert: we broke up, and it was messy. While it may not be his name, unfortunately, the image is a daily reminder of a person I don’t want to think about, ever, permanently on my body. 

 

My strong advice would be to avoid getting someone tattooed on yourself, no matter how you feel toward them. Don’t just take it from me – a UK poll in 2018 showed tattooed names was the number one tattoo regret (unsurprisingly). Closely followed by tribal designs and Asian characters.

 

However, if it’s too late, there is a solution. Laser tattoo removal. SKYN® use the Lutronic Spectra Q-Switched Laser – one of the most effective laser machines on the market. (Read more here). It’s a little painful, but the results are worth it.

 

I am two sessions deep and I am elated to finally see my ex fading from my life.

 

The First Session

 

I was nervous going into my first session. I had been warned that it can be painful, and I’m sure I have a fairly low pain threshold. On top of that, I was told it would be approximately nine sessions until complete removal. Could I handle the process nine times? 

 

The nurse, who was incredibly kind, covered the area with numbing cream. After about 15 minutes I took a deep breath, put on my safety glasses and was ready to go. 

 

I won’t lie, it wasn’t comfortable. I have read the process being likened to being continuously flicked with a rubber band and yes, that’s exactly what it feels like. However, I found it manageable, and it was over in about 15 minutes or less. Anyone that’s had a tattoo knows they aren’t particularly comfortable either, and nowhere near as speedy.

 

The laser itself is gratifying to watch. The ink pigments absorb and chemically react with the emitted light, causing a white frosting. 

Before.1

Before laser tattoo removal with the Lutronic Spectra Q-Switched Laser

The Healing Process

The day after removal, the tattoo was very red and sore to touch, similar to a sunburn. There were moments of soreness and itchiness, but nothing too dramatic. Don’t be alarmed at redness, blistering or scabbing. Two weeks after the first session, the tattoo was looking a little dry, but on the way to recovery.

Process.1

One day after Laser Tattoo Removal with Spectra Q-Switched Laser

Process.1.1

Two weeks after Laser Tattoo Removal with Spectra Q-Switched Laser

*After roughly eight weeks I can confidently say the tattoo removal was entirely healed and already I was seeing noticeable fading. I tried to keep the area clean, away from the sunlight, moisturised (later in the process) and breathing. If you want to speed the process along, SKYN offers the Healite II™. This can be used in conjunction with laser treatments, increasing blood flow to the tissue, and therefore assisting wound healing.

 

*The healing process may be faster for other clients as I have an autoimmune disease which affects my body’s ability to heal.

 

The Second Session

 

The second session fared similarly to the first in terms of the session and the healing process. It felt a little more sensitive than the first time, however, this is where there has been a vast improvement. It’s important to note that my removal journey has also been a little bit different. 

 

I have opted to guinea pig a technique where half of the tattoo has been treated with the Erbium Yag Laser, prior to using the Spectra Q-Switch. Basically, this pokes little holes in to let gas escape, which should be more effective. The other half of the tattoo has only been treated with Spectra Q-Switched. 

 

After the first session, I hadn’t noticed a huge difference between the halves, but now I can see portions of the tattoo that has dropped (almost entirely) where the Erbium Yag Laser technique was used. In saying that, I’m stunned by how well the only Q-Switched laser area of the tattoo removal application has developed.

Line22 225x300 1

Above the line: Combination Erbium Yag Laser and Spectra Q-Switch
Below the line: Spectra Q-Switch Laser only. See the lines of the eyes!

 

I can happily report that I will be continuing this journey. I am unphased by the discomfort and based on how well the tattoo has taken to the treatments so far, I am convinced it will be much less than nine sessions!

The Facts • Laser Tattoo Removal

A quick guide’s a good guide. All your Laser Tattoo Removal questions covered in under 2 mins.

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

Without getting too sciencey – ink particles sit in a layer underneath the skin. When the laser is passed over the area, particles absorb the energy, heat up, and smash into smaller particles, which are then carried out of your body.

 

Can you get a Tattoo After Laser Removal?

When it’s healed, it’s safe to start the removal process. Many clients opt to get their tattoo lightened for a cover-up rather than removing entirely.

 

How Soon After Getting a Tattoo Can you get it Removed?

You will need to wait until your tattoo is completely healed before starting the removal process.

 

Can You Donate Blood After Laser Tattoo Removal?

The Australian Red Cross performs individual risk assessments. If you are taking antibiotics, still healing, or showing signs of infection, you won’t be eligible to give blood.

Conversely, if you have just received a tattoo, you will need to wait 4 months before you donate blood.

 

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Some people say tattoo removal is comparable to getting a tattoo. Luckily the laser process is faster and numbing cream will be applied to the area before your treatment.

So yes, it can be uncomfortable, but it isn’t unbearable.

 

Can Laser Treatments Remove Tattoos Completely?

Many variables can effect results. The Spectra Lutronic Q-Switch NdYag is the most effective, fast and safe method for removal, and it is expected that you will achieve significant results, either partially or completely removing your tattoo.

 

Can Skin Tone Effect Tattoo Removal Results?

The Kirby-Desai Scale is a scaling method to assert the ease of tattoo removal based on factors such as tattoo location, ink colour, scarring and the amount of ink used. The scale also accounts for the clients Fitzpatrick Skin Type.

Essentially, the lighter your skin, the easier it is to remove the tattoo. This is because the laser can recognise the difference in colour, therefore targeting the inked area more effectively.

 

Can I get Tattoo Removal when I’m Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

Nope. While there aren’t any known risks, it’s better to be overcautious.

How Much Does Laser Tattoo Removal Cost?

You can find this information here.

Is there something we missed? Ask us what you want to know about Laser Tattoo Removal

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For a consultation, or to book in for a treatment, call SKYN 08 9389 9022 or request an appointment online.

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Learn more about Tattoo Removal

The black splotches show the size of ink particles, image from Smarter Every Day.