Is Tattoo Laser Removal Dangerous? What You Need to Know
Tattoos have become increasingly popular over the years, with many using them as a form of self-expression.
However, as a person ages, their tastes and preferences may change, leading to a rise in demand for tattoo removal services, the most common one being laser tattoo removal.
But is it really safe, despite its widespread popularity?
Our article seeks to provide all the information you need to know before getting a tattoo laser removal procedure, and suggests a safer alternative for your needs as well!
What is tattoo removal?
The process of tattoo removal seeks to remove or significantly fade the appearance of permanent ink from your body.
It involves breaking down the ink particles within the skin, allowing the body’s immune system to flush them away gradually.
Various tattoo removal techniques include chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and surgical excision. Thus far, laser tattoo removal remains the popular and widely accepted method for eliminating tattoos.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
The laser tattoo removal procedure is a laser treatment that utilises short, intense bursts of light to target and break down tattoo ink into smaller fragments.
These fragmented ink particles are then gradually removed by the body’s immune system over time.
What are the risks and limitations of laser tattoo removal?
The laser tattoo removal procedure is generally considered safe and effective, but usually, this is mentioned in the context of large body tattoo removal.
But, what about botched semi-permanent makeup on your face?
Well, you might be right to worry about such an intense laser light being so close to your face.
There are several risks and limitations you need to consider before deciding to undergo the treatment:
Incomplete removal
Laser treatment does not always guarantee the removal of your tattoo completely. Some colours, particularly lighter shades like yellow, green, and pastels, are more challenging to remove.
Additionally, tattoos with deep ink or those located in areas with poor blood circulation may be more resistant to removal.
Scarring
While modern laser technology has significantly reduced the risk of scarring, there is still a possibility, especially if the treated area becomes infected or if proper aftercare is not followed, thus jeopardising the healing process.
People with a history of keloid scarring or poor skin healing may be more prone to this complication.
Skin irritation and redness
After each laser session, it is common to experience temporary skin irritation and redness. This typically subsides within a few hours or days, but in some cases, it may persist for longer periods
Burns
The heat from the laser can burn and damage the skin if it is not used properly, potentially leading to blistering, swelling, infection, and alteration of the usual pigmentation of the skin.
Infection
Although rare, there is a risk of infection associated with tattoo laser removal, especially if administered by someone without adequate knowledge of laser safety.
The procedure involves breaking the skin, creating an entry point for bacteria.
Pain and discomfort
Laser tattoo removal can be uncomfortable and even painful for some individuals. The laser emits intense bursts of light energy that can cause a stinging or burning sensation.
Hair loss
Laser tattoo removal can also kill hair follicles, leading to permanent hair loss, similar to the effects of laser hair removal.
This can be especially disastrous if you are aiming to remove eyebrow embroidery.
High tattoo removal cost
Laser tattoo removal can be expensive, especially for larger or multicoloured tattoos that require more sessions.
What are some non-laser tattoo removal treatments?
Non-laser tattoo removal techniques offer an alternative approach that aims to overcome the limitations of laser removal.
These methods use various ways to fade and remove tattoos without intense light beams.
Here are a few notable non-laser tattoo removal techniques:
Chemical Tattoo Removal
Involves the application of acid-based solutions to the skin. These solutions penetrate the dermis and break down the tattoo pigment over time.
This technique is relatively less painful than laser removal; however, it may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.
Dermabrasion
A tattoo removal process that involves mechanically exfoliating the skin’s surface to remove the tattoo ink.
The process uses a high-speed rotary device with an abrasive surface that gently removes layers of the tattooed skin.
Tattoo Removal Creams
These creams typically contain chemical agents that penetrate the skin and break down the tattoo pigments.
While some people have reported success with certain tattoo removal creams, their efficacy can vary greatly, and the results may not be effective for some.
Tattoo Extraction
This technique aims to remove or lighten tattoos without using laser technology.
Instead, it relies on a combination of a proprietary liquid solution and mechanical action to extract or lift the tattoo ink from the skin.
3Beauties' Academy offers the best tattoo removal procedure without the risk or pain!
Our PhiRemoval and NanoPulse technologies at 3Beauties are effective non-laser and hybrid tattoo removal techniques.
Our tattoo removal sessions are gentle, pain-free, and affordable—with none of the accompanying issues that come with traditional laser tattoo removal treatments.
PhiRemoval is a non-laser, complete pigment removal procedure that gets rid of unwanted tattoo ink and semi-permanent makeup (brow/liner/lip embroidery).
This tattoo removal procedure is best for small tattoos, eyebrow embroidery, eyeliner embroidery, as well as lip embroidery.
Benefits of choosing PhiRemoval include:
Removes all traces of tattoo pigments to restore your desired look.
Does not affect hair growth.
Safe and effective with zero to minimal pain.