Debunking Tattoo Removal Myths

As an Oak Brook tattoo removal studio filled with tattoo removal experts, we have heard it all when it comes to people's expectations of the tattoo removal procedure.  We thought we'd dedicate a blog entry to some of the common tattoo removal myths we've heard.  Here are a few of the most common tattoo removal myths:

1- "Laser tattoo removal is an extremely painful process."

This one isn't true.  The laser tattoo removal process isn't "extremely" painful, but tolerance for pain will make the process feel different for everyone. As the laser beam grazes over the skin, you may experience a burning or tingling sensation, but nothing too excruciating. Most tattoo removal studios will have a process utilize beforehand to help their patients minimize the discomfort. Here at Erase Tattoo Removal we use a variety of techniques to help minimize discomfort.  Some patients may elect to apply topical anesthetic cream about a half hour before their laser tattoo removal procedure.  At Erase Tattoo Removal we use The Zimmer Chiller, which is a skin cooling device that uses a stream of cold air to help soothe the skin to provide relief.  If you or a loved one are considering the tattoo removal process, don't let the myth that it is "extremely painful" stand in the way.  Speak with a tattoo removal studio and ask how they minimize discomfort during the procedure.

2- "There will be scars left on the skin after the tattoo removal procedure."

Lasers used in the past used to leave scars because the laser beam wavelength simply was not suited for skin, but with today's technology things have changed.  Lasers today do not leave scars, especially the laser we work with here at Erase Tattoo Removal.  Our laser, the Asclepion TattooStar Effect Laser is known for removing tattoos in record time and leaving no scars.

3- "One session will be sufficient enough to remove a tattoo."

This myth is simply just that, a myth.  Most tattoos take multiple sessions to be fully removed.  While one session may fade the tattoo, it will take a few procedures to have the tattoo completely removed.  The number of sessions that a patient will require depends on the size of the tattoo and the colors used in the tattoo.  Predominately black tattoos are easier and faster to remove than colored tattoos, so it really does depend on a patient's tattoo.  Most tattoo removal studios offer a consultation where the removal specialists can look at a patient's tattoo and assess how many sessions will be needed to have the tattoo completely removed.

4- "Laser tattoo removal is extremely expensive."

Not true again!  The pricing of laser tattoo removal depends on a variety of factors including the tattoo removal studio's pricing per session, the colors used in the tattoo, the tattoos size, the placement of the tattoo, etc.  If you compare laser tattoo removal to actual surgical removal of a tattoo the price is significantly lower.

5- "There is significant downtime after a laser tattoo removal procedure."  

Once again this one is considered a myth for a reason.  There is little to no downtime after a laser tattoo removal procedure.  For the first few days following a tattoo removal session there will be some minor skin irritation, swelling and redness.  The extent of the discomfort depends on the patient.

Have your own tattoo myths you'd like to share with us?  Leave them below in a comment or feel free to contact us with more questions.