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How to Find the Best Tattoo Removal Methods

Laser, Creams, Surgery and Cost of Removing Body Art

Sep 23, 2009 Fleur Hupston

Many people have adorned their bodies with tattoos only to regret it later. There are various tattoo removal methods; which is best and how much does it cost?

According to the Tattoo Removal Institute, tattoos are more popular today then ever before. In a 2003 Harris poll it was estimated that 16% of the US population has at least one tattoo. However, it is also estimated that between 17 - 50% eventually regret having their body tattoo and want it removed.

Some people experience a change of heart or circumstances and no longer want tattoos adorning their body or limbs.

Tattoo Removal Methods

Some removal methods like dermabrasion have been around for a long time. Newer and more innovative methods are coming onto the market all the time.

Tattoo removal methods include:

Home tattoo removal
Dermabrasion - A surgeon removes the skin with an instrument that has an abrasive brush specially designed to peel away layers of skin.
Excision - A surgical procedure where tattooed skin is cut out.
Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment

This is a much less painful procedure than some of the other treatments available (although not pain free). Laser tattoo removal treatment works by producing short pulses of intense light that pass harmlessly through the top layers of the skin to be selectively absorbed by the tattoo pigment.

It is said to be one of the more effective of treatments, but some colors such as turquoise or yellow are more difficult to remove. Multiple treatments can cause scarring.

Laser Tattoo Removal Cost

Expect to pay around $250 to $850 per session. Depending on the size and color of the tattoo, anywhere between 1 - 10 sessions may be required. A large, colorful tattoo on the back, for example, could cost thousands of dollars to remove.

Home Tattoo Removal - A Cheaper Option

There are many home tattoo removal methods, the most common of which is the application of a cream or balm. Repeated applications may be necessary and it may take months before the tattoo lightens. Mostly it fades completely, in other cases it may just lighten the tattoo and for certain skin types, creams may not work at all.

Some brands include Wrecking Balm Tattoo Removal Cream, Dermasal Tattoo Removal Cream, Tat B Gone, Tattoo Off and Profade Tattoo Removal Cream. Tattoo removal creams are a low-cost option, though their success rates and skin safety are not 100% proven. The price of tattoo removal cream is typically $50-$100 for a small jar of cream.

It is very important to evaluate the different advantages and disadvantages of using tattoo removal creams so that an informed decision can be made. Testing for allergies is important before administering any sort of topical ointment.

Always consult a skin care specialist before starting any skin treatment.

Source:

About.com, article "Tattoo Removal and Alternatives", by Karen Hudson, information retrieved 23 September 2009.
Tattooremovalinstitute.com, information retrieved on 23 September 2009.