Is Tattoo Removal Pain As Painful As Getting A Tattoo?
It depends. If you’re particularly sensitive to pain, or if you have a tattoo in a particularly sensitive area, then laser tattoo removal will probably hurt. Most people, however, tend to think that laser tattoo removal is less painful than getting an actual tattoo. The feeling is very similar to having a rubber band snapped against your skin. And some people say it feels more like a rapid succession of tiny pricks, or someone scratching a really bad sunburn. Laser tattoo removal on areas with more fat, such as the arms or the buttocks, is generally not as painful as areas where there is less fat or close to a bone, such as a neck, ankle, or finger. If you’re concerned about pain, most physicians apply a topical anesthetic beforehand to help you feel more comfortable.
Laser tattoo removal works by targeting pigment colors in the skin’s dermis, the layer of skin between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissues. The laser radiates light beams, which are absorbed by the pigment and then fragment as a result. The body then absorbs and eliminates the pigment fragments.
The science behind laser tattoo removal is quite amazing. Laser tattoo removal works by targeting pigment colors in the skin’s dermis, the layer of skin between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissues. The laser radiates light beams, which are absorbed by the pigment and then fragment as a result. The body then absorbs and eliminates the pigment fragments. The Q-switch is the most common type of laser used in tattoo removal. It produces pulses of light boasting an extremely high peak power. Several types of Q-switch lasers exist, and each one targets a different color spectrum at different wavelengths. Because Q-switch lasers are so precise and intense, tattoo pigments fragment instantly, resulting in minimal damage to the surrounding tissue.
As stated before, with each laser pulse, most people experience a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against their skin.
And don’t worry about feeling uncomfortable during treatment. Before a laser tattoo removal session starts, you’ll receive a topical anesthetic cream and protective eyewear along with a cooling device. The physician will then place a handpiece against your skin and deliver laser pulses to the tattoo pigment. As stated before, with each laser pulse, most people experience a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against their skin. The amount of laser pulses depends on the tattoo’s size, but most treatment sessions only last a few minutes.
Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt Afterward?
Sometimes, but not much. You may experience minor bleeding, redness, swelling, and blistering for several hours or days following treatment. Your skin will probably feel tender to the touch as well. The next several weeks may see the treated area flaking, peeling, and scabbing. While the site is healing, you should avoid sun exposure and public swimming pools. Once the skin has completely healed (usually a month after treatment), you can undergo additional sessions.
Amateur tattoos are also a lot easier to remove than professional ones because the ink tends to be less dense.
The number of laser tattoo removal sessions you’ll need depends on several different factors. The older the tattoo, for instance, the easier it is to remove. Amateur tattoos are also a lot easier to remove than professional ones because the ink tends to be less dense. Tattoos located on your extremities, however, are more difficult to remove because the circulation isn’t as good in those areas. Green, yellow and fluorescent inks are also notoriously difficult to remove–but it’s still possible to get rid of them with the right laser technology.
Want to try laser tattoo removal? Come to LaserAway. We’re proud to offer the most medical spa service options of any national skincare provider. We hire only the most highly trained staff experienced and certified in administering laser and other dermatological procedures. What’s more, we use only innovative techniques and cutting-edge laser technology. We aim to make your medical spa experience comfortable, enjoyable, and satisfying. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today by emailing LaserAway.com or calling the staff at LaserAway at (888) 965-2737. LaserAway looks forward to zapping that tat.
