Approximately one in five adults has at least one tattoo. Although 86% of them have no regrets about their body branding, the number of laser tattoo removals performed continues to grow each day.
The laser technology behind tattoo removal has improved significantly in recent years offering highly effective results on all skin types and tattoos designs. But is it right for you? The Dermatology of Boca team is here to answer all of your questions about laser tattoo removal.
How are tattoos removed?
Though lasers are used to remove tattoos, your immune system actually flushes them from your system. This naturally occurring process is why tattoos fade over time -- your body is slowly absorbing and eliminating the tattoo pigment. Laser tattoo removal accelerates this process by breaking your tattoo ink into tiny particles, so your immune can flush it from your system faster.
There are several laser treatments on the market that remove tattoos, but the team at Dermatology of Boca relies on enlighten® with PICO Genesis. This powerful aesthetic system combines dual wavelengths of energy with multiple pulse settings in a single laser. This innovative technology makes the enlighten system more effective at removing all types of tattoo color faster without damaging the surrounding skin.
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Having your tattoo removed with the enlighten laser system isn’t painful, but you may experience mild discomfort depending on your sensitivity. Most people describe the pulsing energy as feeling like a rubberband is repeatedly snapping against their skin.
To ensure your comfort during your tattoo laser removal treatment, the Dermatology of Boca team offer topical anesthetic to minimize any discomfort. Following your enlighten session, you can apply ice packs to decrease any tenderness in the area.
Since everyone’s bodies and tattoos are different, your provider develops each tattoo removal strategy on a case-by-case basis. Though you might see initial results in a few enlighten treatments, the number of sessions needed depends on the several factors, including the:
Because your immune system flushes the ink particles from your body, your overall health also plays an essential role in the number of sessions needed to remove your tattoo. In most cases, it typically takes three to six before you have the most dramatic results.
Your laser tattoo removal session at Dermatology of Boca takes between 15-30 minutes depending on your tattoo. You wear special eyewear during your treatment to protect your vision from the high-powered wavelengths used to break-up your tattoo ink. Your enlighten sessions are usually scheduled several weeks apart so your body can heal and absorb ink particles between each treatment.
After your laser tattoo removal appointment, you might experience tenderness in the area similar to a sunburn. Though there’s no downtime following your treatment, your Dermatology of Boca team member provides detailed instructions for caring for the treatment site. This follow-up care is a vital step for your tattoo removal because it encourages healing in the area.
Post-tattoo removal treatment usually includes:
To see if laser tattoo removal can eliminate your regrettable body branding, call Dermatology of Boca, or schedule a consultation online today.
