Whilst tattoos remain consistently popular in the UK, statistics also show that more people than ever are getting theirs removed. There are many reasons why people choose to get rid of tattoos. Often, it’s because they got the tattoo when they were younger and now regret it or because they no longer want to be reminded of a certain someone. Whatever the reason, it is now easier than ever to safely remove an unwanted tattoo. Read on to find out more about safe tattoo removal in London.
Laser tattoo removal
Tattoos of all shapes and sizes can successfully be removed using a laser. Laser tattoo removal is the most popular method for removing unwanted ink, with thousands of people in the UK undergoing this procedure every year. Lasers remove tattoos by breaking down the ink into very small fragments, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually passed out of the body. A number of sessions are often required to remove a tattoo using a laser.
Is laser tattoo removal safe?
Laser tattoo removal is considered safer than other methods, including excision, dermabrasion and salabrasion. The reason for this is that laser treatment works by selectively treating the pigment in the tattoo, leaving the skin and tissue surrounding it unaffected. There are usually very few side effects too. Having said this, you should keep in mind that infection after the procedure is possible, with a slight chance that you’ll have a permanent scar. Blisters can occur too in some cases. They can occur if the blood vessels are disrupted and excess fluids in the skin are produced.
Having a tattoo removed by laser is usually safe as long as the procedure is performed by an experienced and qualified practitioner. Check the person who’ll be removing your tattoo is on a register to show that they meet the set standards in training, skills and insurance. If the practitioner doesn’t have the necessary expertise, the procedure can be risky. The wrong choice of wavelength, fluence, or pulse width can cause damage to the skin and tissue and result in long-term side effects. The parameter settings that work safely and effectively in one person might not be suitable for someone else due to differences in skin texture and pigmentation.
Safety tips for laser tattoo removal
To ensure that laser tattoo removal is performed as safely as possible, it’s important to follow a few precautions before, during and after treatment, including:
- Avoiding sun exposure within four weeks of laser treatment. This includes tanning beds.
- Avoid tanning products such as creams, sprays and lotions.
- Avoid hair removal procedures within six weeks of laser treatment.
- Wear laser safety glasses at all times during the laser tattoo removal process.
- Don’t pick at blisters or scabs. Avoid shaving the area until it has completely healed.
If you want to remove a tattoo safely, it’s best to opt for laser removal. Laser tattoo removal is the safest method for getting rid of tattoos of all sizes and in various locations on the body.
