The cheapest tattoo removal methods are often surgical excision (for small tattoos, but causes scarring) or community/charity programs for gang-related tattoos, while professional options like laser removal become more cost-effective with package deals or for fading (not full removal) for cover-ups, but avoid dangerous DIY methods like salt/sandpaper at home, as they risk severe infection and scarring.
Out of the three prescribed procedures, surgical removal is the cheapest at $150 to $350. Next is the laser tattoo removal at a national average of $463, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dermabrasion is a bit expensive – it can cost up to several thousands of dollars.
There is no way to remove a tattoo at home. Tattoo ink is inserted deep into the second layer of skin called the dermis.
Natural methods like exfoliation, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide can offer gradual fading but carry risks of skin irritation and inconsistent results. For safer and more effective tattoo removal, professional treatments such as the advanced Phantom™ Laser technology are highly recommended.
Non-Laser Tattoo Removal Options and Methods
The AAD also advises that using the wrong type of moisturizer can actually harm your tattoo. Avoid using petroleum jelly and other petroleum-based products to hydrate your tattoo, as these can cause ink fading. Instead, opt for a water-based moisturizing cream or lotion to keep your tattoo hydrated.
Remedies for Removing a Tattoo
Yes, a tattoo can often be 100% removed, but it's not guaranteed and depends heavily on factors like ink color (black is easiest, yellow/white hardest), tattoo depth, skin type, immune system strength, and aftercare. While many people achieve complete clearance, some might be left with faint "whisps" or ghosting, though significant fading to near invisibility is common, even if 100% clearance isn't reached.
However, the laser tattoo removal pens that are on the market definitely fall into that 'too good to be true' category. Those that are sold on the internet simply do not have the energy to safely and effectively remove a tattoo without causing skin fatigue.
Laser tattoo removal is a lot more expensive than a cover-up tattoo. However, if you can't find a cover-up tattoo design you love, laser tattoo removal is the best choice.
In addition, your body's response to the laser treatments will also affect the number of sessions that you receive. If you would like to completely eliminate your unwanted tattoo, you will probably need to receive six to twelve laser sessions.
Tattoo Ink
Black tattoos are the easiest to remove because the laser is able to target the black pigment more precisely. Other colors such as red, blues and greens can become more difficult to remove depending whether the tattoos were amateur or professional. Green is the hardest color to remove followed by light blue.
The most effective approach to permanent tattoo removal is, indeed, the use of laser technology. This method is widely regarded as both safe and precise. During the procedure, a laser beam is carefully directed at the tattooed skin (the specific area of concern).
Yes, sandpaper is quite capable of removing a tattoo, but it's definitely not recommended: To get to deep layers of skin where the ink is, you'd be risking extensive scarring and infection. Using sandpaper on your skin can also result in an incomplete removal of the tattoo, not to mention an awful lot of pain.
Cryosurgery, sometimes called cryotherapy, has also been used to remove tattoos. This procedure freeze-burns the tattooed skin with liquid nitrogen, which is commonly used to treat warts and other skin lesions.
Hydrogen peroxide
It is designed to work as a disinfectant but is moderately effective at fading superficial layers of ink. On its own, hydrogen peroxide is not potent enough to penetrate the second layer of skin. As a result, fresh tattoos or deeply embedded tattoos won't be phased by it.
There's no evidence that tattoo removal creams work. At best, tattoo removal cream might fade or lighten a tattoo. The tattoo will remain visible, however, and skin irritation and other reactions are possible.
The ink does not ever really leave the body, though possibly a portion is excreted via the liver.
What are the types of tattoo removal?
The answer, in short, is NO! While you may see stories online about tattoo removal with a mixture of salt and water, this practice not only does not remove the tattoo, but also increases your risk of skin damage, infection and permanent scarring.
Scented lotions may cause scaring and premature fading of tattoos.
Avoid using aloe vera while the area is healing, as it can potentially affect the color retention. Use sun block after the tattoo has healed to prevent future fading of pigment color (if exposed to sun or tanning bed).
Apply a cold pack. This can help reduce swelling, bruising or itching. Never apply ice directly to the skin as it can cause tissue damage. Instead, put a layer of fabric between the cold pack and the skin.