How Does Tattoo Removal Actually Work?

When you’re ready to erase all signs of an unwanted tattoo, laser tattoo removal is a safe and effective way to achieve great results. At Bopp Dermatology in Metairie, Louisiana, Felix Bopp, MD, understands the embarrassment an old tattoo can cause and offers comprehensive tattoo removal services using the advanced enlighten™ laser.

There are many other reasons why you may be considering getting rid of a tattoo. Perhaps you’re preparing for a new job or just want to get erase some bad decisions in your past. If you’re looking for a noninvasive solution for tattoo removal, learn more about how enlighten laser technology can work for you.

How enlighten works to remove tattoos

The enlighten laser system uses picosecond pulses of laser energy that are powerful enough to break up even the darkest tattoo inks without causing harm to your surrounding skin tissue.

The laser energy targets the pigments in the tattoo ink, pulverizing their structure into microscopic pieces. Your body takes over the process, metabolizing the ink particles and eliminating them naturally as waste. This natural process requires no additional medical treatment, only enough time to completely rid your body of the destroyed ink.

Noticeable results after just one treatment

While many people require several laser tattoo removal sessions to completely address the tattoo, especially for large designs and dark inks, you can expect to see noticeable results after your first treatment.

Your tattoo fades away as Dr. Bopp administers laser treatments based on a customized treatment plan that factors in your overall health and the size and location of your tattoo.

A benefit of the enlighten laser system for tattoo removal is that its high-power capability allows Dr. Bopp to address all types of tattoos faster and more effectively than other technologies.

Treatments with the enlighten laser can cause some discomfort, but Dr. Bopp focuses on your health and safety throughout each treatment. He even offers the convenience of a topical anesthetic to keep your treatment as pain-free as possible.

While you may have some initial redness or swelling in the treatment area, these mild side effects go away on their own in just a few days. You can expect to go right back to your usual activities after your laser appointment without the need for recovery or downtime. No one will even know you’ve had laser treatments.

Minimal aftercare

To protect the health of your skin, Dr. Bopp can suggest a high-quality sunscreen to use daily, as your skin may be especially sensitive to the sun’s rays after treatment.

A good moisturizer will also help prevent excess skin dryness and flaking. It can take as long as eight weeks for your skin to completely heal. If you require more than one laser session, Dr. Bopp schedules them about eight weeks apart to ensure your skin remains healthy.

Now is a great time to schedule a consultation and learn what you need to know about laser tattoo removal. Find out how the enlighten laser can work for you by booking a consultation at Bopp Dermatology today.