Tattoo Removal, Sacramento CA
Tattoo removal is usually not something that people plan to get, as most are certain they will love their tattoo forever. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and not every tattoo will end up how you dreamt it would be. Tattoo removal is an amazing tool that can allow you to get rid of a tattoo that was executed poorly or that just doesn’t resonate with you anymore. There are some things to consider when opting for laser tattoo removal. Let’s take a look at some of the key aspects of laser tattoo removal that you should know about before saying goodbye to your unwanted tattoo.
What Is It?
Laser tattoo removal is a process of eliminating ink from the surface of the skin through a process called photothermolysis. The laser pulses through the skin and breaks up ink particles, which are then naturally absorbed by your body. The laser itself is not a consistent beam, but rather a pulse that shoots our the laser in a concentrated area. Laser tattoo removal permanently lifts the ink from your tattoo and will leave the area looking like fresh skin again.
Laser tattoo removal can be painful depending on the area and required sessions that your tattoo needs. The process of laser tattoo removal will require you to wear protective eyewear, as the lasers themselves can be damaging if not properly used. The laser itself can be quite loud as well and has a distinct sound during the procedure. Laser tattoo removal has been around for many years, though the technology has drastically accelerated in recent years.
Who Is It For?
Laser tattoo removal can be for anyone with a tattoo, however there are certain characteristics that may make you a better candidate for a successful removal than others. One of the main factors is the size of the tattoo you are trying to remove. Smaller tattoos are obviously much easier to remove because there is less surface area to cover as well as less money and pain involved. Certain colors such as yellow tones are notoriously difficult to remove because of the way that they break down in the body.
Blackwork can be difficult to remove with lasers as it is very stubborn and obviously the darkest ink. Everything will be depending on your specific tattoo, so it’s important to have a thorough consultation with you laser specialist to understand what is realistic for you.
Benefits
If you find yourself struggling with a tattoo that’s completely lost its meaning or really just want to get rid of it, then laser tattoo removal is an excellent solution. Remember, these are not the only options out there and there are certainly other ways to hide your ink such as getting a cover up tattoo. Laser is great because it allows you to remove your tattoo without having to opt for a cover up which typically needs to be much larger and darker than the original tattoo underneath.
If your tattoo is quite small, you will likely have great success in removing the full piece with laser. If laser is done properly, many likely would never know you had a tattoo in that area. A huge benefit of laser tattoo removal is the peace of mind of knowing that the option exists, should you be stuck with a tattoo you are not in love with.
How It Works
Laser tattoo removal works by using a specific wavelength to break up ink particles in the upper layers of your skin. The laser is specifically tuned to break up and remove ink without destroying surrounding tissue as much as possible. Laser tattoo removal is often done in multiple sessions that are tailored around the tattoo itself. For example, you may spend a single session focusing on only line work and another on only color areas. You’ll need to space out each session by a couple of months typically to allow the skin to heal in between laser rounds.
Laser tattoo removal will leave large scabs, similar to a burn, and can be a process to heal. Once healed, you can go back in for your next session and repeat the process. Many removals require upwards of 5-10 sessions depending on the size of the tattoo. It’s important to remember that laser tattoo removal can often be a lengthy process and will not happen overnight.
Typical Costs
Costs on the average for tattoo removal in Sacramento will vary depending on many factors. Most laser tattoo removal clinics will have prices that are based on size, location, and the amount you are hoping to fade your tattoo. If you are looking to get rid of your tattoo completely, you will be paying more as this will require many sessions. If you are simply looking to lighten your tattoo in order to cover it up more successfully later on, this will be less expensive.
Many people get laser tattoo removal with the intention of only lightening enough to get a cover up tattoo as this is a very popular option. Pricing can range from hourly to per session flat rates depending on the clinic. You may also need to budget for topical numbing creams if you are interested in numbing the area beforehand as laser tattoo removal can be quite painful. Some clinics may offer lidocaine injections to help numb the area which can be an added cost as well.
Final Thoughts
Laser tattoo removal is a fantastic way to remove or lighten the ink of your unwanted tattoos. Understanding the factors that will affect your results will help you have realistic expectations. Remember, you can always cover up your tattoo later on if it doesn’t completely fade away with laser treatment. While most people do not ever intend to get tattoo removal when they are initially getting their tattoo, it is a fantastic option to know that nothing is ever truly permanent. Laser tattoo removal can help you get rid of unhighlight tattoos that may not fit you anymore can give you a new outlook on the future.