So the tattoo you got as a teen no longer reflects who you really are. Or the event that you commemorated with some tattoo is something you no longer want to remember. Unfortunately, getting rid of a tattoo is not as easy as getting one. However, with the assistance of an experienced dermatologist such as Lina Naga SkinDC, it is possible. Tattoo removal is as old as the tattoos themselves, and with technological development, removal techniques have evolved to become more convenient and efficient. Below is a rundown of some common tattoo removal techniques offered by dermatologists.

Salabrasion or Dermabrasion

Salabrasion is one of the oldest tattoo removal techniques used in the modern world. It is the abrasion of the dermis and the epidermis with a salt solution. Dermabrasion is quite similar to Salabrasion only that it uses a mechanical technique with a high-speed rotating brush or wheel. This has the effect of allowing the tattoo ink to leach out. However, this procedure can cause some discomfort, and therefore, the area to be treated has to typically be numbed. After the procedure, the treated areas will feel sore for several days. You can expect the recovery to take up to two weeks. However, this technique is not very reliable since its effectiveness depends on how deep in the skin the tattoo ink is.

Surgical Removal

If salabrasion and dermabrasion techniques fail, your dermatologist may advise you for surgical tattoo removal. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia. Once the area is numb, the doctor will open it up with a scalpel and remove the tattoo surgically. The incision will then be stitched back. Like any other surgical procedure, surgical tattoo removal has a number of drawbacks. For instance, the wound can get infected and you may even experience pain. Besides, although the procedure is effective, it is going to leave a scar, and therefore, the technique is only practical when it comes to the removal of smaller tattoos.

Laser Treatment

This technique relies on laser energy to get rid of a tattoo. The area to be treated is first numbed using local anesthesia. A powerful pulse of laser energy is then administered to the area. The laser energy penetrates the skin and breaks down the tattoo ink. The body will then get rid of the ink via the lymphatic system. If the tattoo has several different colors, the procedure may require several lasers with varying wavelengths. The first treatment may not get rid of the tattoo completely, and therefore, you will likely need repeated sessions.

The Takeaway

Overall, it is apparent that if you have a tattoo that you no longer want, getting rid of it may not be easy. However, it is possible, especially with the assistance of an experienced dermatologist. If you are looking for a reliable dermatologist to help you get rid of a tattoo of any magnitude, Lina Naga of SkinDC is an excellent choice. Feel free to visit or contact SkinDC today for more information about the services that they offer.