Get the Facts Before Your Laser Tattoo Removal Appointment In Ottawa
Sometimes, people want to get rid of a tattoo. Perhaps they’ve outgrown it, regret it, or simply want to replace it with a new tattoo. Whatever the case, laser tattoo removal is a sought-after treatment for many. The laser treatment fades the tattoo over time, making it easy to remove completely or cover up later. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misleading information out there about how effective laser tattoo removal is. Every person and tattoo is unique, which means results can vary from patient to patient. That said, an Ottawa laser tattoo removal clinic can help dispel some of the rumours and myths surrounding tattoo removal to help put you at ease.
These are some of the most common misconceptions about laser tattoo removal, and the actual facts you need to know before you opt for laser tattoo removal:
Myth: Laser Tattoo Removal Causes Scarring
THE FACTS: Actually, it’s very unlikely that laser tattoo removal causes scarring. This myth comes from the fact that laser tattoo removal can exacerbate existing scarring. If you are aware of existing scars in the treatment area, you should tell your physician prior to treatment. These scars could become more noticeable after laser tattoo removal. However, skin treatments that reduce the appearance of scarring are available, and if you follow the aftercare instructions from your physician, you can help your skin heal well.
Myth: Laser Tattoo Removal Causes Excessive Bleeding
THE FACTS: The only bleeding that you might experience after the treatment is tiny pinpoint bleeding. There should not be any excessive bleeding. Excessive bleeding likely means the laser settings are incorrect (which will not happen when treatment is administered by trained professionals). Don’t be alarmed if there is swelling, redness, blisters, or discolouration in the treatment area. These symptoms are part of the skin’s healing process and are perfectly normal.
Myth: Laser Tattoo Removal is Instant
THE FACTS: No, laser tattoo removal does not provide instant results. Although this is a faster treatment than alternative methods—like tattoo removal cream—it takes time for the treatment to work. Each treatment will break up more of the ink, and during the time between treatments (about six to eight weeks), your body removes the ink particles. If you are eager to never see the tattoo again and you don’t want to wait until the end of treatment, you can cover it up with another tattoo once your old one has faded.
Myth: New Tattoos are Easier to Remove
THE FACTS: Since the body’s reaction to a new tattoo will interfere with the treatment and pose risks, new tattoos are harder to remove. You should wait a minimum of at least 8 weeks after getting a new tattoo to have it removed.
Myth: All Lasers are Effective for Removing Tattoos
THE FACTS: While all lasers specifically designed for tattoo removal are effective, some are more advanced and may provide better results than others. There are different laser wavelengths to effectively treat different colours. You can do research and read reviews on the lasers used at tattoo removal clinics to see if they will suit your specific tattoo removal needs. You may require more than one laser to remove different colours.
Not all tattoos are the same, so the results vary for each person. Factors such as tattoo colour, ink, size, location, and skill of the tattoo artist—professional vs. amateur—will affect the treatment length. Some inks will even darken before removal—such as white ink—so consult with a physician to get advice specific to your skin and tattoo needs.
Ask to see before and after photos and discuss your concerns prior to treatment. You can also minimize or prevent any issues if you follow the aftercare instructions to ensure that your skin heals well. If you’ve outgrown your tattoo, consider these facts about laser tattoo removal so you know what expect prior to starting your treatment.