Life is full of decisions. As you change, some of those less than stellar choices may lead to regret, especially with tattoos. But, tattoos no longer have to be permanent reminders of past bad decisions. With the latest advances in Philadelphia laser tattoo removal technology, you may have heard that complete tattoo removal is possible.

So, you basically want to know if it works and is safe, right? You don’t need to receive a physics lesson on the properties of different wavelengths. Tattoo removal can sound incredibly complicated if a bunch of medical terms are thrown around. Let’s breakdown that technical information and give you straightforward answers to the questions you have about tattoo removal.

Laser tattoo removal can hurt

Yes, getting zapped by lasers can hurt a little. It should not hurt more than getting the tattoo, though. You will feel less pain if your laser technician uses a cooling machine to keep the lasers from overheating your skin. You can also try a numbing cream, but talk with your tattoo removal specialist beforehand. The lasers use light and heat energy, so you can expect some pain during and after treatments. The amount depends on your perception of pain.

Lasers work by breaking up ink particles

When your laser technician uses a combination laser on your tattoo, the different wavelengths will target all ink particles embedded in your skin. The heat and light energy emitted from the lasers breaks the large ink particles up into smaller pieces. This allows your immune system to clear the foreign particles from your body. Your body can flush out the ink particles as they are broken down into small enough pieces. This process can take a while, though.

You must follow directions

The most important key to successfully removing an unwanted tattoo is following proper self-care techniques. Your laser technician or provider will discuss instructions to follow before and after treatment. Certain factors like your health and hydration will greatly influence your own success.

For your body to flush out the ink and keep from scarring, you must take care of yourself. Avoid sunlight, especially around the tattoo area. Drink plenty of water. Keep your immune system healthy. Discuss any concerns with your laser technician or provider.

What will it look like afterward?

Just as apples darken when you slice them, oxidation will cause an initial darkening of some tattoo ink. Don’t be alarmed if this happens to you. Further treatments and time will allow the ink to be removed from your body. As your immune system eliminates the broken down ink fragments from your skin, the tattoo will begin to fade. If you follow proper self-care instructions, you should be enjoying tattoo-free skin at the end of the prescribed treatment time.

As always, trust the advice of your InkAway Philadelphia laser tattoo removal specialist and discuss any issues with them before making treatment decisions.