GoodRx / Maryann Mikhail, MD
Key takeaways:
- Laser treatments that specifically target the pigment in tattoo ink are the best option for tattoo removal.
- How well and how quickly laser tattoo removal works depends on multiple factors such as the size and color of your tattoo.
- Depending on how many laser treatments you need, the tattoo removal process can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Tattoos are easy to get but hard to get rid of. If you want to try and remove a tattoo, lasers are the best option. With today’s advances, lasers can remove various ink colors with fewer treatments and the least scarring. Your results, however, may vary.
Here, we’ll cover why lasers are the best way to remove a tattoo, what factors impact the quality of your results, and how much the process might cost.
What effective options are available to remove a tattoo?
The most effective way to remove a tattoo is through laser treatments. Lasers directly target the pigment in tattoo ink with minimal damage to the surrounding skin. Several types of providers or businesses offer laser treatments, including:
- Dermatologists
- Plastic surgeons
- Tattoo shops
- Medical spas
You may want to consider going to a dermatologist for your laser treatments, especially if you have an underlying medical condition. A healthcare provider can help you understand your risks and benefits as well as what you can expect from laser treatments.
Other tattoo removal options are available on the market, such as creams and at-home kits. Keep in mind any do-it-yourself tattoo removal product or technique removes layers of skin and has a higher risk of infection. These methods are also unlikely to work and can permanently damage your skin.
