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Debunking Common Myths of Laser Tattoo Removal

Written by WD Staff, Skin Care Specialists on August 12, 2015 No Comments

debunking tattoo removal myths

When it comes to laser tattoo removal there are many untrue myths floating around the internet. The worst thing about these myths is that they sometimes scare away people who really want to have their tattoos removed.

Here is the truth about 5 of these common tattoo removal myths:

1. Laser removal leaves scars

Laser tattoo removal is highly unlikely to cause any form of scarring, especially in the case of PiQo4 (which works by targeting tattoo ink as opposed to the skin). Even older q-switched tattoo lasers only penetrate the upper layers of skin and thus are unable to cause scarring. Bottom Line: The chance of scarring from a laser tattoo removal procedure is low.

2. Tattoo removal creams are not as effective as lasers

It would be great to just smear on a cream and watch a horrible tattoo fade into oblivion. Unfortunately, no tattoo removal cream on the market today is effective as lasers. Creams are unable to penetrate far enough into the skin to penetrate tattoo ink. At best, these creams may fade your tattoo, potentially making it look even worse. However, some creams are dangerous and can cause considerable damage to the skin. Our advice, don’t use these creams until further research is done.

3. Black is the hardest color to remove

False. In fact, if you have a black-only tattoo you’re actually in luck. Compared to other colors, black ink has the least amount of additives, many of which can make removal more difficult. Generally, black ink also responds the best to laser light, absorbing all wavelengths without any degradation. Colored tattoos are harder to remove, and thus will require more treatment sessions before they disappear.

4. Fresh tattoos are easier to remove than old tattoos

I can see how many people would think newer tattoos are easy to remove. After all you are getting it removed before the ink has a chance to “settle” into the skin, right? Older tattoos are easiest to remove, specifically because ink fading results in less required treatment sessions. In fact, laser tattoo removal requires the area to be fully healed, which is weeks after the tattoo is complete.

5. Laser tattoo removal is unsafe

Laser tattoo removal is just as safe as getting your tattoo. All laser manufacturers are regulated by the FDA, which oversees production and use. Additionally, most states require providers to be properly licensed to operate the laser.

Want to learn more about laser tattoo removal. Read our recent blog post on the 9 factors that determine tattoo removal success or visit our PiQo4 page for more details!


WD Staff

A united group of skin care specialists from Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Austin's leader in Dermatology and Plastic Surgery. Articles posted under WD staff are authored through combined contributions from our entire team, including Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, Aestheticians, Physician Assistants, Aesthetic Nurses, and Patient Coordinators.


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