r/TattooRemoval Jan 11 '25

Mod Post Attn community: Am I a candidate for removal? Remove or cover? Why was my comment or post locked or removed?

41 Upvotes

Hello everyone and happy 2025! This community has grown to over 33k, a massive increase from when I joined and there was about 6k users. Welcome!!

Some new year reminders from myself and the Mod Team:

Please read the FAQ. Yes I know it's slightly dated but still has very valuable information. I wrote a good portion of it, but due to my current work load and personal life haven't had a lot of free time to go in and review, update, modify. It's a goal of mine to do shortly.

New to the sub? Spend a few minutes scrolling or utilize search before asking your question. We've all had the same series of questions, there's a treasure trove of info here in the community already.

Am I a candidate for removal? Most likely, yes, but the amount of removal will be determined by a number of factors, all outlined in the FAQ. Lazy? TL;DR, factors that determine this are skin type, ink density, cover-up, tattoo style, ink colors, location on the body, preexisting scar tissue, quality of lifestyle and immune system. Please book a consultation, they should be free.

Should I get this covered up or remove it? It's your body, your choice. At the end of the day, a stranger on Reddit shouldn't be your deciding factor if a tattoo is cool, fits your body or personality, or looks good or bad. There are other more appropriate subs on Reddit to help you figure out cover-up options, at the end of the day, it's a very personal decision to get a tattoo, have it covered, or remove it.

Why was my post locked or deleted? There's a really good chance that it violated one of the rules of the sub. Additionally, this community is pretty wonderful about self-policing. If enough reports are made on a post or comment, Reddit will remove the post due to the reports. If you feel this was done in error please message the Mod team (not myself or any other mod individually). If you made a post and 1 minute later it's not visible, it may have tripped something in Reddit's system to auto-delete, again please message the Mod team and we'll review.

Aftercare questions. I strongly recommend anyone who has questions directly related to their tattoo removal treatment to contact your provider first, they have your medical records and treatment parameters. What worked for one person here on Reddit may not work for you.

Be kind and supportive. There's an emotional and physical toll on having a tattoo removed, this should be self explanatory.

Discussions of at-home tattoo removal including purchasing of lasers for personal use will not be tolerated. This rule has been added, users can flag for Mods to see. Professionals use Class IV lasers, these can have detrimental effects to skin and tissue that may be permanent, and can cause serious vision impairment if safety isn't properly followed. This is unsafe for everyone involved. When one buys a laser from [insert name of Chinese online provider of everything] the electrical system may not even meet UL or CE regulations, the laser likely isn't calibrated and is possibly displaying incorrect energy levels. Furthermore, the eye protection that's supplied often tends to be subpar. Yes, tattoo removal treatments are expensive, but maintaining your skin integrity from a qualified, experienced professional is what you're paying for, in addition to results.


r/TattooRemoval Jun 12 '20

Start here! Welcome and FAQ :)

214 Upvotes

Hello,

Welcome to r/tattooremoval! This sub is intended to discuss tattoo removal - ask questions, share your experiences, frustrations, or your progress stories. Tattoo removal is a long, painful journey and we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions.

Here is a document link to all the latest research and evidence base practices in regards to tattoo removal from Uptodate. It is a lot of information but it will hopefully help answer a lot of questions on how it works, best practices and of course the laser debate (it may take a minute to load, it is a pdf file):

https://docdro.id/8GUglmJ

FAQ

How does laser tattoo removal work? 

The laser shatters the tattoo ink into smaller and smaller particles, allowing your body to gradually dispose of it via the immune system. The process takes 3+ years, broadly speaking.

What should I look for in a tattoo removal clinic?

Look for proven results. It is common within the tattoo removal industry for clinics to rely on progress photos provided by the laser manufacturer. You want to find a clinic that has a proven track record and that uses its own photos. The technician operating the machine is one of the most important factors dictating the success of the removal process. Look for someone who has experience and who you feel comfortable with. Laser tattoo removal is a lengthy process and liking and trusting your provider is critical.

How much does laser tattoo removal cost?

 The price of laser tattoo removal varies widely based on geographic location, technician experience, the type of laser being used, whether the practitioner is a dermatologist, and other factors. Get as many free estimates as you can, and go with the clinic you trust the most. Tattoo removal is not something you should do “on the cheap.” If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. All-in-one businesses, like med-spas, will typically cost more due to their higher overhead. Paying more doesn’t mean the results will be better, nor does it mean the results won’t be as good as a clinic that specializes in tattoo removal. Be aware that the bigger the business, the more moving parts, the more the cost will increase based on that. Don’t choose a clinic based on price alone.

How many treatments will I need?

 It is impossible to say with certainty how many treatments a tattoo will need prior to treatment. Most tattoos that can be removed take an average of 10-12 treatments spaced out over a period of 3+ years. Note: Not everyone is an ideal candidate for full removal, and not all tattoos can be removed.

Can all tattoos be removed?

 No. Tattoo inks are not regulated in the United States and there are thousands in use. If the ink in your tattoo has a high heavy metal content, there is some likelihood it cannot be removed. Unfortunately, you can’t know whether or not your tattoo contains a lot of heavy metals until you undergo treatment. Yellow is nearly impossible to remove, and white can often turn a dark grey-brown-black color. Clients with darker skin tones and of Asian descent are also not ideal candidates in most cases due to the high risk of hypopigmentation.

How far apart should I space my laser treatments?

Generally speaking, 8-12 weeks is the standard amount of time you should wait in between laser tattoo removal appointments. Your body can still be processing out the ink for several months after treatment, therefore waiting longer will not hinder the process. If a clinic advises you to space your treatments at shorter intervals, be wary. It may be more concerned about making money than providing you with good, safe results. Every clinic will have different protocols, if the tech you’re speaking with is suggesting longer intervals than 12 weeks, they are likely doing this based on their experience and generally speaking, you should follow their advice. There is no set in stone protocol as every tattoo on every client is different.

Will my tattoo be 100% gone?

While some tattoos do vanish completely, 90-95% removal is generally considered to be a good outcome. If your tattoo contains a lot of dense, black ink, full removal is unlikely. Cover-up and blackout tattoos rarely achieve much more than 90% removal and it is normally not suggested anyone with these tries to achieve full removal. Extremely large, dense pieces also rarely look gone, so a half sleeve of solid tribal wouldn’t be ideal for removal.

How long does laser tattoo removal take?

On average it takes 3+ years for removal. Small tattoos do not take less time than larger tattoos. Is there anything I can do to speed up the process? The best thing you can do during laser treatment is to live as healthy a life as possible. Tattoo removal works best when your immune system is working at its best. Get plenty of exercise, eat well, drink lots of water, quit smoking nicotine if you’re a smoker, and try to get 8 hours of sleep per night. The healthier your lifestyle, the healthier your immune system will be - and the easier your removal will be.

I just got a new tattoo and I want to get it removed. How long do I have to wait before starting laser removal?

  You should wait at least 3 months to allow the skin to heal before beginning laser treatments. If your clinic says you should wait longer, follow their advice.

Are newer tattoos easier to remove than older ones?

 No, in fact, the reverse is true, with caveats. Because there have been improvements in both ink and tattoo machines in recent years, newer tattoos can take longer to fade. Newer inks are designed to fade less than inks in the past, and likewise, newer tattoo machines deposit the ink more densely in the skin. An older tattoo, however, is likely on an older body, which means a lower-functioning immune system and thus more removal time.

Does laser tattoo removal cause scars?

 In the hands of an experienced technician, the chance for scarring from laser tattoo removal is low. That is not to say that scarring cannot occur. Each person reacts differently and some may have adverse effects. Laser removal remains the safest method and carries a low chance of scarring and skin damage. Just like getting a tattoo, there will be specific things to do and to avoid post-treatment. The clinic and laser tech you go to should have aftercare guidelines. Following their aftercare will help reduce the chances of self-imposed damage to the skin.

What causes hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) during laser tattoo removal?

Hypopigmentation is the result of the destruction of melanin in the skin, the natural pigments in the skin that add color. Because tattoo removal works by targeting dark tattoo ink, it’s possible to also destroy dark melanin, resulting in a light to off-white color to the skin. The results can be temporary and resolve themselves within 18 months, or they could be permanent. When hypopigmentation occurs it is best to cease treatments for at least 6 months, avoid sun exposure and re-evaluate. Anyone with Fitzpatrick skin type III or higher is at a higher risk of hypopigmentation, however, it can occur for all skin types.

What causes hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) during the laser removal process?

 Hyperpigmentation from tattoo removal is fairly rare and is a darkening of the skin, typically only occurs with Fitzpatrick I clients.

What is the best laser for tattoo removal?

 There is no best laser for tattoo removal. There are better lasers for specific colors and skin types, but as a generalized statement, having a good laser doesn’t mean good results. This article explains more.

What is the difference between a pico and a q-switched laser?

At the core, a pico-second laser has a pulse duration of 1-trillionth of a second, a QS is a nano-laser with a pulse duration of 1-billionth of a second. Confusing matters, the PicoSure was the first laser with FDA clearance at a pico-second, early adopters, marketers and those who used them in the beginning have simply referred to them as a pico or as the pico. There are a handful of pico-second lasers on the market now. With most things, there are better lasers than others, the service needs to be maintained on them and there needs to be a knowledgeable person behind the machine to achieve results. A great laser won’t always equal great results.

Does laser tattoo removal work on all skin tones?

 In short, no. There are limitations within the Fitzpatrick scale, the main risks are hypopigmentation for those with darker skin tones and of Asian descent.

*What is the best aftercare procedure?  *

We recommend you follow the advice of your clinic. Adherence to the aftercare instructions is very important. Make sure you do as your clinic advises, and to contact them if you have any questions. But please avoid or remove plastic or tegaderm dressings. These lead to increase blistering and risk of infection as plastic traps in heat and sweat. Use a gauze dressing if you must cover it that is breathable and keep the area moisturized. (This is as per UpToDate recommendations).

Is it normal for the treated area to swell and become blistered?

 Yes, it is normal for the treated area to become red and swollen. Often it will blister. If you are concerned, do not hesitate to contact your clinic. Do not rely on advice from the internet if you have a concern post-treatment.

I see a lot of tattoo removal creams online. Do they work?

 No, they do not. Tattoos can only be safely and effectively removed using a professional-caliber laser. Likewise, cheap at-home laser machines do not work and should be avoided. Don’t waste your money.

How about other DIY methods, for example, salabrasion?

 Not only do these methods not work, but they can also cause irreversible skin damage and scarring. DO NOT TRY ANY AT-HOME REMOVAL METHODS YOU READ ABOUT ON THE INTERNET. Laser tattoo removal is the only safe way to get rid of unwanted tattoos. This post offers more detail on why non-laser tattoo removal methods are not advisable.

What is Soliton? Is it going to revolutionize tattoo removal?

As of right now, the product is not commercially available. The technology is too new with too few real-world trials to make any speculation this early. Is a new technology coming along that will make tattoo removal easier? Not likely. The tattoo removal arm of the medical aesthetics world is only a very, very small portion of the much bigger market. The cost of conception, R&D, clinical trials and FDA approval runs hundreds of millions of dollars, and for a small market. So, it will be some time before new, breakthrough technology appears.

What is Tattoo Vanish? Is this a reasonable alternative to laser removal?

 Tattoo Vanish is a non-laser method of removing tattoos by which a substance (often hyaluronic acid) is tattooed into the existing tattoo. The ink is then expelled through the surface via scabs. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS METHOD. It is not safe and can cause severe scarring. Laser removal is the only proven and safe method for removing tattoos. This post offers more detail on why non-laser tattoo removal methods are not advisable.

Is excision a good alternative to laser tattoo removal?   Generally, no. For those with very small tattoos (no larger than the size of about a dime) who need fast removal, excision may be an option. For the most part, excision is not advisable. Additionally, not all tattoos can be excised. It depends on the size and location. Multiple surgeries may be required and excision will also leave large amounts of scarring. A plastic surgeon would be the best person to consult if you are interested in this method.

Good luck on your journey!

Posts with false information or spam will be deleted. Be nice to each other.

(Thank you to my friend gee who put the FAQ together <3)


r/TattooRemoval 4h ago

Before & After Pics 3 Years Down

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129 Upvotes

I’ve been at this three years today. Currently taking a break for summer. Last in May. Next in September.

I’ve had 9 treatments on the flowers, raven/wheat, and owl. 8 treatments on the lure/text. 30 appointments in total. All with Removery. All PicoWay laser.

Some days I think I’ve made a lot of progress, other days I feel drained by how much I have left.

Note: Flowers & Owl were done and re-worked. Last two pictures in the carousel are pre-treatments.


r/TattooRemoval 10h ago

Feels & Motivation 2 Years of Removal. Fatigued.

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98 Upvotes

I knew this was going to be a long journey, as the tattoo was extremely dense, saturated black ink. I've been doing removal for 2 years, started on the Q Switch 10 for approx 8 sessions, and Pico for the last 3 (sorry, not sure which one). First few sessions were 8 weeks apart, then 10/12 weeks, and recently dropped to 2 sessions a year in the hope I'll get some decent fading by leaving more time in between (although I've noticed fading seems to stop after the 12 week mark). Some spots of hypopigmentation and a bit of scarring on the red areas, but not too bothered. Sometimes I wish I'd never started this. I've decided to go to 18 sessions before I decide if I want to stop or have a year off atleast. I don't believe I'll reach 100% removal but hoping for 90%. Removal by Laser HQ (UK).

Edit to say I don't have a tan - I've since got a new phone and the camera makes me look tanned for some reason! I always use sun protection.


r/TattooRemoval 8h ago

Before & After Pics 5 sessions in with PicoWay

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13 Upvotes

I’ve got one more session left in my package and then I’m reaching out to an artist for a cover up. Sometimes I get frustrated that it’s still there despite all the pain I’ve gone through so far but this side by side really shows how much progress we’ve made. Reason for removal is change in personal taste for the style, I’m getting a different bird tattoo put over it for my bird leg sleeve


r/TattooRemoval 2h ago

Opinion / Advice Getting multiple tattoos removed at once ?

5 Upvotes

I have 11 tattoos I want to get removed (don’t ask) and want to get them all removed simultaneously as they’re all relatively small (the biggest is six inches) but will this overwhelm my immune system? Is there a certain threshold of how many can be treated at the same time/ same time period?


r/TattooRemoval 2h ago

Opinion / Advice Is this redness normal?

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6 Upvotes

I had the first removal session 5 years ago and only had the frosting effect over the ink, this time it looks completely different. (1st photo a couple days before session, 2nd photo a couple days after session)


r/TattooRemoval 9h ago

Before & After Pics Mais uma remoção de tatuagem em andamento. 💥

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15 Upvotes

r/TattooRemoval 8h ago

Opinion / Advice Comparing Removal Quotes

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9 Upvotes

I received two quotes for tattoo removal of three finger tattoos, a fine line wrist tattoo, small hip tattoo, and lettering on my upper back.

One quote is from Removery and the other from a privately owned removal clinic. Removery offered me a complete removal package and the other clinic charges per session.

The downside is Removery is further from my home and they want it paid in full instead of per treatment. But it seems like over time, Removery will be cheaper in the long run.

They both said to space out treatments every 8 weeks but from everything I’ve read here it seems like doing at least 12 weeks would be better.

The back tattoo, the little Leo ♌️ symbol, and the small VII tattoo are 12+ years old. The fingers and wrist are 5 years old.

Any advice/opinions?


r/TattooRemoval 1h ago

Feels & Motivation Starting removal

Upvotes

I just need to vent. I have 3 black line tattoos I want removed. I know that black ink breaks down easier so I'm happy about that but I know I'm probably still looking at 2-3, maybe even 4 years of having to look at these things I hate everyday. I feel such shame for even getting them. I'm bipolar and pretty sure I was a little manic when I made the decision. I'd post a photo but I'm too embarrassed. I have my first session in mid August. They use numbing cream but I don't know if I'll be able to take the pain. Anyways, wish me luck.


r/TattooRemoval 4h ago

Opinion / Advice Is this hyperpigmentation?

3 Upvotes

Tattoo was fine line text. Last session was beginning of March


r/TattooRemoval 9h ago

Before & After Pics Avant après satisfaisant

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7 Upvotes

Je viens de découvrir ce groupe qui aurait pu m'être utile à l'époque !

Je fais un tatouage en mai 2023 que j'ai vraiment haï. Pas tout de suite mais à mesure que le beau temps arrivait et que donc les manches courtes étaient de rigueur, je me suis aperçue que je pouvais juste pas me le voir et que je n'assumais absolument pas de le montrer.

Dès juin 2023, j'avais le cul chez Lazeo pour montrer ma croûte.

D'ailleurs, merci de vous abstenir de tout commentaire, je voulais "habiller" mon papillon de taches d'encre trop dark, très underground.

3 ans après, plus rien mais des cicatrices. Tant pis, c'est le jeu.

Si ma mémoire est bonne :

6 séances au Hollywood Spectra (190 euros)

2 séances picoway (200 euros)

2 séances picosecond (180 euros)

Pause de 2 à 3 mois environ à chaque fois.

Voilà 😎


r/TattooRemoval 11h ago

Before & After Pics 12, maybe 14 sessions between these photos?

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9 Upvotes

r/TattooRemoval 11h ago

Before & After Pics Good results for six sessions?

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6 Upvotes

Treatments at removery in Nashville. Using picoway laser. Tattoo age is ~12 years. Goal is full removal.


r/TattooRemoval 17h ago

Before & After Pics Results 1 month after 1st session

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21 Upvotes

I will preface by saying the first image is of the tattoo before any lasering done. It was done by yours truly during a very bad time in my life. In case u couldn’t tell - I don’t know how to do tattoos which has been in my favour for removal. This tattoo is two years old roughly. Second pic is a month after my very first session with picosure! I can’t believe how much has been removed, especially considering I’ve gotten sick twice during this process.


r/TattooRemoval 8h ago

Feels & Motivation Tattoo regret

3 Upvotes

I would love some encouraging words and comments.
Also some experiences with Picoplus laser?

I got a matching tattoo with my best friend back in January. It was kind of an impulsive thing but I wanted to start my patchwork sleeve on my leg, as my arms are covered in patchwork too. After I got it done, I was feeling weary about the placement and thought it looked odd but everyone kept telling me it was because I had two tattoo basically in the middle of my leg and once I started to get more tattoos it would start to look better. Unfortunately, this led to me getting two more tattoos on my thighs that I now hate. They are beautifully done tattoos but the placement has made me feel so depressed.
This whole thing has made me feel so stupid because I had a pretty large tattoo removed that took around 5 years to completely get rid of (I got it when I was 17 & started removing it about a year or so after I got it). It was such a long process and I am afraid that it will be the same with these tattoos I just got.
I have a removal consultation coming up at the beginning of August. When I first scheduled it, I felt a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. However, now I am back to feeling anxious and upset with myself. It doesn’t help that I have OCD so this has pretty much taken over my life with the compulsive behaviors of checking over and over.


r/TattooRemoval 6h ago

Opinion / Advice Tattoo Removal Questions

2 Upvotes

I have some LARGE scale pieces that I want to remove. I understand I will probably never get them close to completely gone bc they are so large. I have 2 questions.

  1. What is the best tattoo removal currently available (bonus points if anyone knows a place in Houston)?
  2. Is there any promising tech coming out in the next 5-10 years that will significantly change how tattoos are removed? (I.e. is it worth waiting)

Thank you everyone.


r/TattooRemoval 18h ago

Before & After Pics One month post 4th session

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12 Upvotes

So far so good with my experience at Removery


r/TattooRemoval 4h ago

Opinion / Advice Is the FracTat laser a good laser?

1 Upvotes

Do you know this laser? Is it a good laser? Are the Fotona StarWalker and StarWalker PQX lasers, with a pulse duration of 300 picoseconds, together with FracTat, also good lasers for treating colored pigments?


r/TattooRemoval 21h ago

Before & After Pics Progress. 3 Sessions almost 1.5yrs

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19 Upvotes

Using picosure and the last one was picoplus. 5months between First and second session. 6months between second and third and the small one with the Scorpio sign had a 4th session six month between third and fourth. I got that one and one other done. Next I’ll get the fourth on my snake and lady arm. It’s about $1k for the snake lady arm and $500 for the small scorpion and some symbols on my neck. It’s only when I do side by side I see how far they have come.


r/TattooRemoval 6h ago

Opinion / Advice Opinions on what to expect removing this tattoo? I have two separate consultations this Saturday.

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0 Upvotes

The dimensions are about two inches by a centimeter. Currently only a month old and I want to start removal this fall. I want to try to get two sessions in before trying to conceive and taking a potential pregnancy break. Any advice is appreciated!


r/TattooRemoval 1d ago

Before & After Pics Two month hypopigmentation update

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34 Upvotes

Two month update. Both taken with back camera flash.


r/TattooRemoval 7h ago

Opinion / Advice Color tattoo removal advice

1 Upvotes

Contemplating changing clinics as the green and purple in my tattoo is really stubborn and the previous clinic didn’t have the right laser.

I was wondering if I could know which laser would be better for purple and green removals. Clinic A has picosure, Clinic B has pico way and Clinic C has the 694nm Ruby Laser and Nd:YAG laser


r/TattooRemoval 1d ago

Before & After Pics Does this look like good progress?

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38 Upvotes

I started this journey in April of 2024, so a bit over 2 years in. I’ve lost count of sessions, but if I had to guess it would be 10 ish if not more. I’ve definitely had some long stretches in between months. Using picoway laser.


r/TattooRemoval 1d ago

Feels & Motivation Documenting my progress

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17 Upvotes

Hi there folks. I started my removal journey this year and I wanted to document my progress here. I got this piece back in Nov 2025, but realized pretty immediately after that it was an impulsive decision. While I like the piece and the design, I just am not feeling the placement. I am confident about full removal since it’s black line work and close to the heart, and my initial consult estimated about 8-10 sessions for complete removal. However my concern is it taking a lot longer because it is so new. First picture is the piece fresh, and the second is about 3 months after my first session. I’ll try to keep this going with progress pictures as I go along, wish me luck!