Erasing that Unfortunate Tattoo
Ah, youth. It’s a wonderful time in life, when the world seems full of promise and life feels like nothing but endless possibilities. Also, it’s a time in life when a lot of people do a lot of dumb things. Do you have a tattoo that seemed like a good idea at the time but now no longer reflects who you are? Don’t worry, we can help you get rid of your ill-advised body art, using modern laser technology.
Laser tattoo removal is an extremely effective way to remove tattoos, and it does it in a pretty interesting way. The laser produces different wavelengths of light energy, and these different wavelengths target different colors of ink in your tattoo. Selectively absorbing the energy targeting its particular color, the ink in your tattoo then breaks apart into tiny fragments. So, does this leave you with little pieces of tattoo ink floating around in your body? No! In an even more interesting turn of events, your body’s own immune system disposes of the ink, removing it from your body.
Of course, this doesn’t happen all at once. Removing a tattoo requires more than just one treatment session, and it’s hard to know how many it will take without seeing the tattoo. That’s why our dermatologists examine a person’s tattoo before creating a customized treatment plan detailing how many treatments will be necessary to remove it. Typically, tattoos can be removed in three to six sessions.
For many patients, the tattoo removal process feels only moderately uncomfortable, like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Other patients, however, are more sensitive to the treatment. Topical anesthetic is available to help keep you comfortable, no matter your pain tolerance, but most people describe tattoo removal as no more painful than the process of having a tattoo applied. There aren’t many side effects, though some patients do experience redness or swelling for a little while. There will be some scabs, which is a normal part of the healing process, and it will take about six to eight weeks for the area that’s been treated to heal completely. You can return to your normal activities immediately after treatment, as long as you protect the treated area from direct sunlight. Once the area is completely healed, you’re ready for your next tattoo removal session.
Whether you need tattoo removal or simply some help caring for your skin, contact Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology to schedule a consultation. We’re committed to providing superior, professional skin care in a manner that’s practical, efficient, and compassionate. With over 30 years of experience providing dermatological services in Salt Lake City, we offer a variety of services, from cosmetic skincare to treatment for skin cancer. Our team of board- certified dermatologists and licensed cosmetic service providers are here to provide you the care you need in a comfortable, professional atmosphere. Call (801) 682-4715 or contact us through our website for a consultation.