I was looking at the posts on tattoo removal, and the following methods have never been discussed:

-Professional dermabrasion-this was one of the "original" pro methods, and is still done. Can reportedly leave less scarring and be much more effective for a lot less money than a laser.

-Chemical peels by a dermatologist

-Cutting the tattoo out (by a pro)-this is how my cosmetic surgeon does it (though I haven't personally had it done by him)

-There is an ink available now that a tattoo artist can use. He goes over the tattoo with an ink that "hides" it.

-As for home methods, I have heard of people using readily available micro-dermabrasion kits along with skin bleaching creams or chemical peel creams.

I guess it would depend on where the tattoo is, the size of it, the benefits of having it gone vs. leaving it there, and the amount of scarring you're willing to have....but lasers are most definately not the only way to do it!!

jillianleab

You haven't actually asked a question here, but I'll respond anyway.

Yes there are other methods of tattoo removal than laser treatment, but that is the most common method and has a rather high success rate.

Check out this article, which mentions all the current methods for removal, and their pain/scarring issues:

Different tattoo removal options

Given all the choices and their descriptions, I'm glad I went with laser, and I would advise anyone investigating their options to go with laser.

chiquita_bandita

The reason I posted that is because it can be quite disheartening for a person of limited means when the myth that lasers are the only way is perpetuated. Lasers might be a better way (and I say MIGHT), but most certainly not the only way.

For a poorer person who desperately needs a tattoo removed to advance in life/career/etc, it can be quite beneficial to know that there are effective professional options that are far less costly than laser treatments. Also, if one has a tattoo in an inconspicuos place on the body that they want removed, where scarring wouldn't matter so much, it's a good way to save money.

jillianleab

Yes, it is a shame when a person needs/wants to have a tattoo removed and cannot afford to do it.

It's worth noting, however, that laser treatments can be spread out over long periods of time to make it more affordable. Some doctors will also perfrom the procedure for free (gang and prison tattoos) and others may offer financing.

cherenek

I was told that these methods leave a mark??????