Locations:
Search IconSearch

9 Tips for Tattoo Removal

How easy is it to get rid of a tattoo?

So the event you commemorated with a tattoo is something you’d rather not remember. Or the tattoo you got in your 20s no longer reflects the real you.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

But how easy is it to get rid of your tat?

Dermatologist Alok Vij, MD, says that today’s laser technology makes it possible to eliminate or fade most tattoos — but not all. In the past, tattoos were surgically shaved, scraped, frozen off or peeled away with chemicals. “Frequently, this left an undesirable scar,” notes Dr. Vij.

In the 1980s, “Q-switched” nanosecond lasers emerged, offering better results. Their tiny pulses of high-powered energy remove or fade most colors, with little risk of skin damage. Newer picosecond lasers show promise for more rapid tattoo removal in fewer treatments. A series of laser treatments, four to eight weeks apart, is usually required.

Before scheduling an appointment, consider these tips:

1. Not all tattoos will disappear

It’s important to set your expectations by speaking with a laser treatment expert. Some tattoos fade only partially after these treatments.

2. Older is better

How long ago did you get your tattoo? The answer makes a difference. Older tattoos fade generally more easily with laser treatments than newer ones.

If laser removal uncovers skin changes, you may be left with what looks like a “ghost” of your old tattoo.

3. Body placement matters

Where did you get your tattoo? Fading is generally slower for tattoos located further down the arm or leg.

Advertisement

4. Who did it?

Amateur tattoos are usually easier to remove than professional tattoos.

5. Different colors, different lasers

No single laser can remove all tattoo colors. Different dyes respond to different light wavelengths. Black and dark green are the easiest colors to remove; yellow, purple, turquoise and fluorescent dyes are hardest to fade.

6. Your skin may change

Tattooing itself may scar or change skin texture, an effect often hidden by the dyes. If laser removal uncovers skin changes, you may be left with what looks like a “ghost” of your old tattoo.

7. Sunscreen can help

Laser treatments may darken or lighten skin pigment over and around the tattoo. Apply sunscreen before and after laser tattoo removal to minimize changes in your skin pigment. For the same reason, wait for your tan to fade before having a tattoo removed.

8. The darkening effect

Certain cosmetic tattoos, such as pink, white and flesh-colored lip liners, may darken immediately with laser therapy. This effect can usually be corrected with further treatment. If immediate skin darkening is a concern, the laser should be tested on a small spot first.

9. Are you allergic?

If you experienced an allergic reaction when getting your tattoo — intense itching and swelling — tell your doctor. Using a “Q-switched” laser to remove the tattoo may trigger a more serious allergic reaction.

Finally, before getting more body art, remember that it’s meant to be permanent. “Make sure the tattoo you get is one you won’t mind having later in life,” says Dr. Vij.

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Caregiver drying off toddler with a towel in front of bathtub
September 11, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
How Often Should You Wash Your Bath Towels?

Wash your bath towels at least once a week, and washcloths at least twice a week

Person inspecting sweat marks on their underarms on their shirt
August 30, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Why Do I Sweat So Much? 9 Reasons

Exercise, weather, anxiety, hormone changes and spicy foods can cause you to perspire more than usual

Person sitting, shaving their leg with shaving cream
August 30, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Shaving vs. Waxing: What’s Better for Your Skin?

Your hair removal routine will depend on your pain tolerance, budget and skin sensitivities

Smiling person with double chin
August 15, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
How Do I Get Rid of My Pesky Double Chin?

Seeing double (chins) when taking selfies? From exercises to surgery, you can reduce or eliminate chin fat, but there’s no overnight solution

Sweaty construction worker in yellow hard hat drinking water from a plastic bottle
August 14, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
8 Methods To Help You Stop Sweating

Stay cool by wearing breathable clothes, eating certain foods and using an antiperspirant

Person spraying antipersperant into their armpit at home, kitty on chair
August 13, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Antiperspirant vs. Deodorant: What’s the Difference?

One reduces the amount of sweat, while the other masks body odor

Person relaxing, head back, eyes closed, sitting in patch of purple flora
August 9, 2024/Allergies
5 Lifestyle Tips for Managing Your Chronic Hives

Lifestyle adjustments like stress reduction, wearing softer clothing and staying out of the sun can help manage flares

Cold water handle in tub with water cascading over it
August 8, 2024/Allergies
How To Manage Frustrating Chronic Hives Flare-Ups

Your provider can develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include prescription medications, antihistamines and corticosteroids

Trending Topics

Female and friend jogging outside
How To Increase Your Metabolism for Weight Loss

Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress

stovetop with stainless steel cookware and glassware
5 Ways Forever Chemicals (PFAS) May Affect Your Health

PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body

jar of rice water and brush, with rice scattered around table
Could Rice Water Be the Secret To Healthier Hair?

While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims

Ad