Laser tattoo removal Vs. non-laser tattoo removal. Choosing the Right Approach for Cosmetic Tattoo Removal
Are you considering erasing that cosmetic tattoo that no longer fits your style or story? Whether it’s a once-beloved eyebrow enhancement gone rogue or an impulsive ink choice from years past, the journey to clarity can feel overwhelming. With various cosmetic tattoo removal methods available, choosing the right approach is crucial for achieving the best results and ensuring your skin’s health. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of cosmetic tattoo removal options—pitting laser techniques against non-laser alternatives—to help you make an informed decision based on effectiveness, comfort, and cost. Join me as we uncover the pros and cons of each method and empower you with knowledge to reclaim your canvas!
Permanent makeup, or semi-permanent makeup?
Many people do not realise how cosmetic tattooing is designed to fade overt time. If your unwanted tattoo is less than 2 years old, it is most likely still fading and chances are it may disappear on its own over time. If you want to speed up the process and fade your cosmetic tattoo faster you can try these simple steps at home:
- Use retinol products designed to speed up cell regeneration
- Stop applying suncream to the area (don’t get a sunburn!)
- Wash the area with saline
Cosmetic tattooing is semi-permanent, and designed to fade, however there will always be a portion of the pigment that will not fade on its own. If the cosmetic tattoo was applied correctly there should be. Minimal amount of colour left in the skin. If the cosmetic tattoo was applied too deeply, then it will not be able to fade naturally either.
Understanding the Different Methods: Laser vs. Non-Laser
There are two main methods available for removing unwanted cosmetic tattooing. The first method is laser tattoo removal – the same method that is used for traditional body art removal.
With this technique a laser is used to target specific colours in the skin. The laser breaks up the pigment, allowing the body to carry it away through the lymphatic system.
The second method involves using saline solution and either skin needling or tattooing it into the area of unwanted pigment. This method is designed to physically remove the pigment from the skin by flushing it out with the saline. It can be very effective for lifting unwanted pigment that is not too deep in the skin.
Pros and Cons of Laser Cosmetic Tattoo Removal
- Very effective results
- Good for more saturated tattoos
- Targets pigments that are deep in the skin
- Hurts! More than the application of the tattoo (although much faster)
- Can cause blisters, and has a more intense healing process
- Results from the treatment takes 4 weeks to show
- May not remove every colour effectively
- Cannot remove titanium (white)
- More effective on fair skin
- Can also damage any hair follicles in the area (like IPL)
Pros and Cons of Non-Laser Cosmetic Tattoo Removal
- May need more treatments than laser removal
- Suitable for more superficial tattoo’s (closer to the surface of the skin)
- Pigment is removed immediately from the skin
- Less painful than laser removal but treatment takes longer
- Healing process is similar to the initial tattoo application
- Good option for removing reds, whites, and yellows
- Effective on all skin tones
- Does not damage hair follicles (safe for eyebrows!)
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Method
The type of cosmetic tattoo removal that is best for you depends on the following factors:
- Age of the tattoo (is it older than 2 years? If so then try the at home steps above)
- How much pigment is remaining
- The type of pigment/colour to remove
- How deep the tattoo was applied
- The location of the tattoo
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You
If you are unsure which method of cosmetic tattoo removal to try, you should visit a professional who can guide you based on their experience and past outcomes. It’s important to remember that the skin on our body is much thicker and more resilient than the skin on our face. The skin on our face will heal faster than the skin on our body, but it is also easier to damage and cause scaring. I always recommend starting with the most conservative method of cosmetic tattoo removal, before moving on to more aggressive methods.
About the Author
Tegan Naderi is a long-time team member of SCHB and is mentored by Zara. She is a cosmetic tattoo artist and owner of VIP Brows, specialising in machine hair stroke tattooing. Tegan is also one of the cosmetic tattoo trainers and the SCHB online course creator.
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