5 Myths (and Facts) about Laser Tattoo Removal

Posted on : September 24, 2013  By : Wellness

We know there are some horror stories out there about laser tattoo removal, and while there may be some truth to some of them, we at the Apple Wellness Center want to set the record straight.

Myth no. 1:  Creams can effectively remove tattoos and are as effective as laser tattoo removal.

Fact: This is not true as, though there are various tattoo removal creams available in the market, they cannot fully remove the tattoo ink. At the most, tattoos may begin fading after using these creams. In cases of laser tattoo removal, the results are much better. In addition, many patients state that there are various side effects associated with these creams like irritation and swelling.

Myth no. 2: Laser tattoo removal works by burning off the tattoo.

Fact: This might have been true of older lasers, such as the CO2 that burned off the shallow layers of the epidermis. Newer Q – switched lasers, like the YAG and ruby, work otherwise. They photothermically fracture the tattoo pigments and depend on the body’s immune system to clear them from the tattoo. Although it’s not required or common, scarring is still possible if too much energy is wrongly applied by means of a Q – switched laser.

Myth no. 3: Laser tattoo removal is very painful.

Fact: While it is true that there is some discomfort associated with the laser tattoo removal procedure, it is commonly described as a tingling or a burning sensation similar to sunburn. A tattoo removal expert may apply a topical numbing cream to the tattoo site to further reduce pain and discomfort.

Myth no. 4: Laser tattoo removal is extremely expensive.

Fact: The size of the tattoo, age of the tattoo, area of the body where the tattoo is located, colour of the tattoo, age and overall health of the patient all play an important part in the overall cost of laser tattoo removal.  Here at Apple Wellness Center, we’ll be happy to give you an estimated cost of removal at your private consultation.  You’ll find that our pricing is very competitive, especially considering the superior effectiveness of our procedure for laser tattoo removal in Lethbridge.

Myth no. 5: Laser tattoo removing causes scarring.

Fact: Unlike tattoo removal methods such as skin grafting or dermabrasion, laser tattoo removal does not leave visible scars.  While older model lasers could cause scarring, contemporary innovations are much more efficient.

Posted in : Tattoo Removal