Tattoo Removal Options You Need to Know

Many people wear tattoos as a form of self-expression. It is an artistic way to express their beliefs and individuality. While they are meant to be permanent, tattoo removal becomes a suitable option especially when a person’s feelings or beliefs already contradict a specific body marking. 


Tattoo removal can be more difficult than the actual process of getting inked but it can be done safely and effectively. If you’re planning to have your tattoo removed, here’s an article that presents useful information, including the tattoo removal options that you need to know about.

6 Common Reasons for Tattoo Removal

  1. Poor design quality;

  2. The tattoo is no longer in style;

  3. The tattoo has faded over time;

  4. A career change requires tattoo removal;

  5. Personal reasons such as a breakup or change of image;

  6. Allergic reaction, infection, and other complications.

Factors that Affect Tattoo Removal Success

While there are reasons why tattoo removal may be the best option, there are certain factors that affect the success of the procedure.


  • Tattoo Age - a tattoo that’s several years old is easier to remove than a new tattoo as the ink tends to fade over time.

  • Tattoo Location - the healing process is slower in the ankle, feet, toes, fingers, and hands. Limited blood circulation in those body areas slows down the body’s healing processes. 

  • Tattoo Size - larger tattoos used more ink so it would also require more treatment. 

  • Ink Depth - the depth and amount of ink used in a tattoo affect tattoo removal success. The larger the particle, the more difficult the removal process will be. The ink won’t easily break up easily and may result in the partial removal of the tattoo.

  • Layered Tattoo - tattoos that have been covered with another tattoo are more difficult to remove. The layers added may also require more tattoo removal sessions.

  • Tattoo Color - darker colors such as blue, green, and black are easier to remove. On the contrary, lighter colors such as red, yellow, and white prove to be more challenging.

  • Skin Tone - tattoos on people with darker complexion are harder to remove. The effectiveness of the procedure may also be restricted among dark-skinned people as they are prone to injury, scarring, and tissue damage.

  • Smoking - tattoo removal is more difficult among smokers due to slower healing and recovery. 

Top Tattoo Removal Options

1. Laser Tattoo Removal

Considered the most cost-effective tattoo removal option, laser removal can significantly lighten or fade a tattoo. Laser removal uses a strong pulse of energy to heat up ink and dissolve it. For complete tattoo removal, 7 to 10 laser treatment sessions may be required. Aftercare treatments also matter to help with skin healing and reduce the risk of infection. 


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Aside from being cost-effective, laser tattoo removal also carries a lower risk of scarring than other tattoo removal options, especially with proper care.

2. Surgical Tattoo Removal

Also known as excision tattoo removal, this is an invasive procedure that cuts off the tattooed part of the skin while the remaining skin is stitched back together. It allows complete tattoo removal and is usually less expensive than other methods. However, because of scarring, it is usually recommended for small tattoos. 

3. Dermabrasion

For this type of tattoo removal, a rotating sanding device is used to remove skin layers and allow ink to seep out. Dermabrasion is a less popular tattoo removal option because its effects vary from person to person. It isn’t the best choice for people with very sensitive skin or those with skin conditions like eczema. It also involves other risks such as bleeding, bruising, and changes in skin pigment after the procedure.

Reasons Why Laser Tattoo Removal is Your Best Option

There are different tattoo removal options that you might consider but among them, laser tattoo removal is considered the safest and most effective method for tattoo ink removal. It works by targeting the darker skin pigment and turning them into smaller particles that the immune system can eliminate over time.


Laser tattoo removal also offers benefits that you should take note of:


  • Requires fewer treatments. Complete removal will only take between 3 to 7 treatments depending on age, complexion, tattoo location, and ink density.

  • Shorter session duration. Depending on the size of the tattoo, removal can be done in less than one hour.

  • Fewer side effects. You can expect lesser side effects from laser tattoo removal which may include little to no scarring on the tattooed part and even on the surrounding skin.

  • Removes most colors. Unlike in the past, laser tattoo removal is effective in removing lighter colors such as greens, yellows, and turquoise.


ALSO READ: 7 Types of Underarm Hair Removal Methods to Help You Achieve Flawless Skin


Quanta System Laser Tattoo Removal offers a safe, effective, and professional tattoo removal treatment for all skin types. Reduce the risk of injury and other untoward effects with the help of skin care specialists. Skin MD’s team of board-certified dermatologists offers tattoo removal services using the Evo laser from Quanta System. We can use topical or local anesthesia to minimize pain.


Inquire about this dermatology service or book an appointment in our skin clinic in Pasig.


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