Individuals with an unwanted tattoo in the Washington, DC area as well as in other parts of the nation may turn to various tattoo removal methods to help them get rid of it. Laser tattoo removal has become the gold standard in tattoo removal for its effectiveness, precision and relative safety. With tattoos becoming more popular, the demand for tattoo removal will inevitably grow as more people get tattoos they later regret. Whether it's because the tattoo is embarrassing, offensive or they simply grow tired of it and do not want it any longer, laser tattoo removal may provide effective results.
When going into a laser tattoo removal session, it is important to discuss expectations with a specialist in the Washington DC area. Patients should be sure to approach treatment with realistic expectations. In most cases, multiple sessions are required to remove the tattoo and reach optimal results, and some tattoos are more easily removed than others. However, most tattoos can be removed. Those considered the best candidates for laser tattoo removal include those who have fair skin and whose tattoos are superficially placed on the arms, chest, buttocks or legs. Those who have darker skin and/or tattoos on the ankles or fingers and other areas with less body fat may find it more difficult to remove a tattoo.
When determining the possible success of laser tattoo removal, the specialist may consider the size, location, application, age and color of the tattoo. The health of the patient, and therefore his or her body's ability to heal itself following treatment, may also factor in. Tattoos that are newer may also be more difficult to remove. Speaking with a tattoo removal specialist in Washington DC may help to provide further guidance when seeking tattoo removal.
The laser tattoo removal process works by directing energy towards the pigment on the skin using a highly concentrated beam of light. This breaks up the ink particles which are then cleaned up by the body's natural processes. This procedure is relatively bloodless and does not require incisions. The surrounding skin is not harmed during treatment, as the laser will selectively target the tattoo pigment. Pain and blister formation is possible with this procedure because of the heat generated by the laser, especially when deeper penetration of the skin or multiple sessions are required. Patients ear protective eye shields during treatment to protect the eyes. Ten to 30 pulses of the laser may be required for each session.
Following treatment, ice is placed on the tattoo to help minimize swelling. After about half an hour, a topical antibiotic ointment is placed on the tattoo. A sterile dressing is also placed over the tattoo. The skin should be left dry for a few days and patients should follow the care instructions given to them by the Washington DC laser tattoo removal specialist. Possible side effects may include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, infection and permanent scarring. The treatment area may appear like it has been sunburned for a few months after treatment, but this will go away.
Learn more about laser tattoo removal in Washington, DC.
