July 2009 Blog Archive
Friday, July 31, 2009
Bye Bye Bunny
Holly Madison, an ex-playmate from the Playboy Mansion, has undergone laser tattoo removal to erase the signature playboy bunny from her lower back. Holly lived in the Playboy Mansion as Hugh Hefner's main girlfriend for many years. She even worked for the company as a photo editor. Since their break up and her move out of the bunny house, Holly is putting her Playboy life behind her.
When asked why she was removing the tattoo, she joked "I got it removed because they stopped paying for the ad space."
The signature playboy bunny tattoo was Holly's only tattoo to date, which is now fading fast from her lower back. She hopes that removing the tattoo will help her start her new career away from her past relationship with the Playboy company.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
A Misspelled Tattoo
Band members are very proud to support their band or musical group. For many, this translates into tattoo artwork on their body. One group member of the rap group "Slaughterhouse" wanted to ink his band name onto his body. Unfortunately, he misspelled his own band name and ended up with the name "Slaugterhouse" on his arm missing the H. Although the tattoo artist attempted to fix the problem, the damage had been done.
Mistakes like these are more common than imagined. Drunk patrons often slur their words and ask for misspelled names. Other times, tattoo artists make the mistakes and attempt to fix them during the process. Luckily, laser tattoo removal may help remove these embarrassing mix-ups.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Making Room for Another
Tattoo removal is not always used by those who hate their tattoos. In fact, it is often used by those who love the ink and want an updated look. Tattoo removal can be used to remove older tattoos to make room for fresh tattoos after full removal.
Dr. Kirby spoke to the LA Times about his experiences with tattoo removal. "So oftentimes we see people who are coming in to have tattoos removed in order to make space for new ones. Maybe it's an ex-lover or something they are no longer involved in, like a band or a gang. So they'll get those tattoos removed and have fresh ink put on" says Kirby.
This fresh slate allows for large areas of the skin to be available for new tattoos. Often times a person may want a different tattoo on an area of their body, such as the back or arms. In order to change their tattoos, laser removal is used to completely wipe clean the original old tattoo to make room for more. The skin is said to be more sensitive after tattoo removal, but the pain is similar to that if you were to tattoo over an existing tattoo.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Removing The Past
Gang members who have been incarcerated are getting a second chance in Singapore to renounce their past and start fresh. Volunteer doctors are performing free tattoo removal for a selected group of 300 inmates based on conduct.
"I was just telling an inmate that hopefully, what we do externally will transform into something good internally" told one volunteer doctor to The Straight Times.
Many ex-gang members face discrimination once released into society based on visible gang related tattoos. Laser removal can be an expensive procedure that not all ex-gang members can afford. These doctors see the desire to change in these inmates and offer their services for free; hoping that removing the gang related tattoo will also remove their will to return to gang life once released.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Tattoo Distortion
Teens and young adults often rush into the tattoo parlor seeking a way to show their unique identity with ink. For the most part, the human body is in the best shape when skin is tightest during the late teens and early 20s. However, as your body ages…so does your skin. Sagging, stretching, and distortion are common reasons that many opt for tattoo removal to hide embarrassing skin art.
"If a woman gets a butterfly on her breast, there's a good chance in a few decades it's going to be a pterodactyl," one tattoo artist told The Standard.
Areas of the body that have the most distortion are the stomach, chest, and biceps. Pregnancy, significant weight loss or gain, and simply old age are significant factors that can stretch or change your original tattoo.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Preparing for Laser Removal
There are things that a person should know to prepare themselves for laser tattoo removal before going into their first appointment. Research is key for patients to feel comfortable with their doctor and the procedure. There are different forms of tattoo removal, each with their own costs and risks. If choosing laser tattoo removal, be sure to assess your own tattoo prior to beginning treatment. Darker colors, larger sizes, and thicker designs may require more sessions with laser treatment.
Before starting the treatment process, be sure to know your own tolerance for pain. If you thought the pain getting your original tattoo was unbearable, you should be prepared to experience the same level of pain with removal. Although some describe the pain as less severe, be aware that the first session will probably cause you discomfort.
Lastly, be sure to assess your budget and schedule prior to committing to the procedure. Dependent upon your tattoo, many treatments may be needed to fully remove the ink. Also, patients are usually told to wait 4-6 weeks between treatments. Tattoos will not be removed in a week and patients need to schedule accordingly.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Fan Tattoo
Fans of popular movies, television shows, books, or celebrities often find ways to show their adoration to the world. One permanent way to do this is by getting a tattoo. Obsessed fans of the book and movie series "Twilight" have done just that. MTV News interviewed some of these fans on their reasoning behind these movie-themed tattoos.
The "Twilight" series revolves around a love story between a human and a vampire. Fans have tattooed a variety of images on themselves to reflect the story. These include bite marks, popular quotes, pictures of movie characters, or images from the book cover. Fans told MTV News that these new tattoos help show their support for the story and characters.
However, as many trends do, "Twilight" popularity will eventually fade. But unlike the movie t-shirt you wear 24/7, the vampire bite tattoo on your arm is not disposable. Vampires live on forever, and so will that tattoo on your skin without laser therapy treatment.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Cops Cover Up
The police force in Dallas has had the option of covering their tattoos up to this point. However, the policy regarding visible tattoos is changing. By the end of the summer, all police offers must cover their tattoos from sight and will no longer have a choice.
The Dallas Daily news reported that current policies state that police officers must "present a neutral and uniform image to effectively relate to all segments of the population they serve." After this new policy is in place, all tattoos must be hidden so that officers show uniformity.
For some, this change is not a drastic one. Tattoos that are easily hidden by a uniform are not against policy. But for those officers with lower arm or neck tattoos, they must use extra clothing or make-up to cover their tattoos. Laser tattoo removal is also a permanent option for these officers in compliance with new guidelines.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Tats That Don't Translate
In the 1990s, Asian characters were a popular trend appearing on clothing, jewelry, and even on the skin. Tattoos of Asian characters depicting "peace" or "love" were very trendy to ink on the skin. However, these tattoos didn't always translate exactly how patrons thought.
A local tattoo removal physician told Fox News "that his business averages between seven and nine clients a week seeking to get an Asian-language tattoo removed. Of those, he said, five or six typically complain that their tattoo was mistranslated or didn't say what they originally thought it did."
Renderings of Asian characters at tattoo parlors are usually flash art taken from a computer. Many tattoo artists are not familiar with these symbols, and may not have copied the symbol exactly. As a result, patrons that once believed their symbol read "spirit" find out later that it really translated to "gas." Such misinterpretations lead many to laser removal to wipe these embarrassing symbols from their body.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Society Leads Women to Removal
A survey by the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center helps determine the causal factors leading women to flock to laser tattoo removal clinics. Research found that the women with the highest rate of removal were between the ages of 24 to 39, single, white, and with a college degree.
In addition, the survey also looked at the reasoning behind the removal. "What we usually tend to find is that some event, usually a negative event, triggers tattoo removal. It's negative comments -- from work, from home and from school as well" reported the study leader.
The researchers hypothesized that the above mentioned group were more likely to get tattoo removal based on the "societal fallout" women face later in life from having tattoos. Even if they like their tattoo, negative comments from peers play a large role in making the decision to use laser tattoo removal. Women want to gain acceptance and may feel that tattoo removal will help alleviate some negativity about their bodies.
Friday, July 17, 2009
At-Home Remedy
There are a variety of alternative treatments for tattoo removal for those who do not want to undergo the laser procedure. Nuviderm is an at-home product consumers can use to fade or remove their tattoos by themselves. The U.S. Local Business Association has recognized the product as one of the best in the field of tattoo removal.
One motivating factor driving consumers to use these products is unemployment. A Nuviderm representative told Eworldwide, "At a time when many people are losing their job, it is important to make a good first impression when interviewing for that new position. Nuviderm is proud to be able to offer an inexpensive tattoo removal technique for job hunters on a tight budget."
At-home treatments can also be painful and should be used with caution. Many at-home systems only fade the tattoo, not remove it completely. To save money, many use these treatments prior to laser removal to decrease the number of laser treatments needed.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Celebrity Tattoo Removal
Notorious rapper known as '50 Cent' is having his arm tattoos removed in order to excel his acting career. A Daily Urban Lifestyle website reports that the tattoos covering his arms had stopped him from attaining certain movie roles recently.
Rappers are known for displaying their tattoo ink as a sign of their identity. These tattoos may have been popular before, but many celebrities are reconsidering their body ink as they get older. The practicality of these tattoos has diminished over time.
This is just another example of how the decisions people may make at age 20 may not relate to the person they become at 35 or older. Luckily, tattoo removal can erase past ink and allow for everyone (including celebrity rappers) to change their life.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Offenders Get Free Removal
A local physician offers free tattoo removal for juvenile offenders in Salt Lake City. The owner of Ink Doubt offers the free service to those juveniles who were recently incarcerated and looking to change their lives for the better.
"It's something that we do with the state and we offer it to the kids so they can when they get out they have an opportunity to move on with their lives rather than going right back into it" says the owner of Ink Doubt.
Removing a gang tattoo frees many young adolescents from the ties to their previous life. Once ink-free, they are able to apply for jobs and live a normal life without the daily reminder of their past.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Barbie Gets Inked Up
Barbie, the doll that for years has been an icon for the changing times in popular culture for young girls, has officially been tattooed. As a promotion for the 50 year anniversary of Barbie, Mattell's Totally Stylin' Tattoos Barbie comes with a variety of rub on tattoos… as well as a tattoo gun.
The Examiner reports "If Barbie inked was not controversial enough... the tattoo gun accompanying Tattoo Barbie also doesn't sit well with some. Parents who may have less problem with the water-applied tattoos which rub off in a day or so, tend to not so easily embrace the idea of an application method that represents a riskier and permanent tattoo variety."
Young children may be given the wrong impression of tattoos if this Barbie model gains popularity. Many parents do not want their children to have the misconception that tattoos are easily removed and a worry-free decision. Unfortunately, tattoos are permanent and many young girls may regret their tattoo decisions as they get older. Maybe Mattell should consider making Doctor Laser Tattoo Removal Ken as an option?
Monday, July 13, 2009
Bad Ink?
A Swiss study may have discovered inconsistency in tattoo ink. According to Swiss Info, unapproved substances and germs were found within certain samples of tattoo ink when tested. These substances may lead to infection, or even cancer, for those tattooed by this contaminated ink.
Officials in Sweden have demanded that tattoo shops bring their ink up to proper health codes, or risk being shut down. For those who have been tattooed with infected ink, officials recommend they see a physician for a full health test. Laser tattoo removal may help decrease the risk of cancer in these patients if caught early. The lasers used will help break up the ink particles in the skin, making it easier for the body's own immune system to dissolve the elements.
Patrons should be very cautious and aware of the general hygiene of the tattoo parlor when getting a tattoo. If you are worried about infection from a tattoo you have received, please seek medical attention for treatment options.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
The Lower Back Tattoo
Many trends come and go, and there was a time when lower back tattoos on women were a very popular trend. However, the trend has ceased and there is a now negative stigma surrounding that particular tattoo location. Dermatologists see an increased number of women who ask for tattoo removal on their lower backs, especially as women reach ages above 30.
"Personally, I love tattooing that spot and it's a beautiful area. Then somebody came along and coined the term 'tramp stamp.' Virtually overnight that spot's not popular anymore." says a local tattoo artist to CTV News.
One issue which prompts tattooed women to see the dermatologist is pregnancy. When going into labor, some doctors will not give an epidural to women with a lower back tattoos. Although tests have proven that infection cannot occur, some doctors will either refuse or administer the epidural in an area that will not distort the tattoo. Women looking to have their lower back tattoo removed should visit a physician for options on removal and to answer any specific questions they may have.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Hiding your Unwanted Tattoo
Do you have a tattoo that you can't wait to get rid of? Laser treatments can be expensive, and usually requires multiple sessions for full removal. In response to those who are looking for an inexpensive way to cover their tattoo, The Ben Nye Tattoo Cover Palette has been created specifically to cover unwanted tattoos on the skin.
"Our palette covers the gamut when it comes to tattoos and discolorations. Intensely pigmented cremes provide flawless, long-wearing and 'invisible' coverage" states the product's website.
The palette provides a variety of skin colors to help cover even the darkest tattoo. Although this is not a permanent solution, many individuals recommend the skin makeup for use between laser removal sessions. Makeup made specifically for the skin helps address the public's increased in desire for tattoo removal.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Free Removal for Teen Gang Tattoos
The Make a Change program in Virginia is providing teens under 22 a way to have their gang related tattoos removed free of charge. This includes all additional rounds of laser therapy removal to ensure that the gang tattoos are removed. The Make a Change program hopes to help those who made bad choices as young adults change their lives and start fresh.
"The Participants must demonstrate their commitment to leaving the gang and not have been involved with any gang activity for at least six months before their first treatment. They can't rack up any new criminal charges, they must be enrolled in school with a good attendance record or have a job or working on getting one if they are no longer in school" reported Inside Nova.com.
In addition to the above requirements, teens must perform 50 hours of community service before their first session. The program wants to ensure that those attaining this free service are committed to changing their lives and helping the community as well.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Regretting that Relationship...?
Many people show their love for one another in a variety of ways. These
range from cards, candy, jewelry, poems...and perhaps a tattoo of your
lover's name? But couples who have inked their loved one's name on their
body may regret the decision if the relationship fails. The Times of India
recently interviewed couples who have had such tattoos removed or covered.
If your relationship doesn't turn out to be as permanent as your tattoo,
luckily there are procedures to help remove the love token. But removing
the love from your skin does not come cheap. Laser tattoo removal can be an
costly treatment depending on the size and color of your romantic tattoo.
Laser tattoo removal is a much more expensive treatment in India compared to
the United States. There are a limited number of doctors who practice the
removal in India, making it a rare and expensive procedure. One tattoo
artist was quoted to say "For this reason, a client is asked twice before
inking his/her lover's name."
Monday, July 06, 2009
Patriotism and Giving Back
Everyone shows their patriotism on the 4th of July in a different way. For some this year, that meant red, white, and blue tattoo ink. A tattoo parlor in Clarksville ran a promotion this past 4th of July weekend to help give back to the troops. Artists tattooed American inspired ink on their patrons for only $25 dollars. All proceeds went directly to charity for wounded soldiers.
Shop patron told Fox 17 News, "It's just something that we believe in. We believe in the soldiers and what they're doing for this country, and we are so proud of them." In total, the shop raised over $700 dollars for the charity.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Shop, Eat, and Tattoo..?
Tattoos have become such a part of mainstream life that now tattoo parlors are being accepted in locations they have never occupied. A Westfield mall in Tampa, Arizona, has recently added a tattoo parlor called FAT Ink. The store has been busy since the opening three weeks ago.
A patron of the mall told FOX 13, "the tattoo shop in the mall kind of shocked me. I'm like, a tattoo shop in the mall, they're usually on the corner or behind places. I wanted to check it out and I'm thoroughly impressed with it."
Other retailers in the mall center are also seeing an increase of business after the opening of the tattoo shop. Increased traffic is a welcomed side effect of these tattoo parlor additions, since the nationwide traffic in malls has been decreasing due to the recession.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Semi-Permanent Ink
Tattoos have been a popular addition to mainstream culture and have been widely promoted in the media as a trendy way to express oneself. Like many trends in popular society, the appeal fades as time goes by. However, tattoos are a permanent decision and are not easily removed. In response to increased demand for tattoo removal, scientists have developed a new type of tattoo ink called InfinitInk which can be removed in only one laser removal session. The ink is still permanent, but scientists have found a way to change the structure of the ink itself.
The skin care company Freedom2 has developed this new ink. According to Examiner.com, "they have figured out a way to manipulate the ink so that it disperses pigment into the skin such a way that it is extracted by laser removal with far fewer treatments than conventional tattoo ink."
Laser tattoo removal is not only expensive, but can be painful as well. InfinitInk keeps the cost of these painful procedures limited to one session, and makes the removal process quicker and easier for physicians.
