If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve had a change of heart about that tattoo you got on a whim/during a moment of drunken stupidity/to spite your ex. And now you want it gone. Well, there’s good news and bad news. The good news is that tattoo removal is easier and less painful than ever before. The bad news is that it’s still going to be pricey and time-consuming. Here’s what you can expect if you’re considering getting your tattoo removed.
The Process
Tattoo removal is a multi-step process that uses lasers to break down the ink in the tattoo so that it can be absorbed by the body. The first step is to find a qualified technician who can assess your tattoo and determine the best course of treatment. Once you’ve found a reputable provider, they will give you a consultation where they will go over the details of the procedure and answer any questions you may have.
The next step is to prep your skin for treatment. This usually involves applying a topical anesthetic to the area to minimize discomfort during the session. The laser will be applied to the skin in short pulses. Depending on the size and location of your tattoo, this can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. After the session is complete, your skin will be cleaned and dressed with a sterile bandage.
Is It Painful?
There’s no denying that getting a tattoo removal hurts—but how much it hurts depends on each individual’s pain tolerance. Most people describe that pain as no worse than getting the original tattoo, and it’s also often been described as feeling like a rubber band snapping on your skin. Ouch. However, new technology has led to more effective and less painful methods of tattoo removal and there are topical anesthetics that can help significantly decrease the pain experienced from tattoo removal.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of tattoo removal varies depending on the size, color, and age of the tattoo, as well as the extent of coverage you’re looking for. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 per session, with most people requiring 6-8 sessions for complete removal. So if you’re hoping to have your tat erased on the cheap, you might want to reconsider.
How Long Does It Take?
Again, this depends on the size, color, age, and depth of the tattoo. Smaller tattoos will obviously take less time to remove than larger ones, while older tattoos are generally easier to erase than newer ones (since the ink tends to fade over time). In general, though, most people need 6-8 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for complete tattoo removal—so plan accordingly! As your body breaks down the ink, you will notice the tattoo fading gradually over time. Once you’ve reached your desired level of fade, you can stop treatment.