It is normal to want to remove your tattoo if it no longer serves its purpose. You can, of course, draw over the tattoo as an alternative to removing but drawing over it can make it much darker or more prominent than you would like.
Many horror stories and misconceptions associated with tattoo removal can send your head spiraling with one common question. Does tattoo removal leave scars?
If you are thinking of getting your tattoo removed and are hesitant about the same, we are here to help you tackle the question of whether tattoo removal leaves scars on the skin and the best way to care for your skin after tattoo removal to avoid scarring.
Does tattoo removal leave scars?
Laser Tattoo removal does not leave scars on the skin if done correctly by a qualified professional. However, after removing your tattoo, it is essential to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the professional practitioner to ensure that no scarring will occur and to speed up the healing process.
Some people are more prone to scarring, especially those with a history of developing keloid scars. If you are one of those people, speak with your specialist and discuss how best you can take care of your scarring after tattoo removal.
Sometimes tattooing your skin might result in scarring, and if the tattoo is removed, the previous scars on the skin become visible. So, if you had scars before tattoo removal, expect them to be more noticeable when the tattoo is removed.
People with darker skin tones are likely to develop discoloration in areas where the tattoo has been removed; this is, however, temporary and is not a scar. The skin will gradually return to its original tan color as time goes by.
What can cause scarring after tattoo removal?
Remember never to remove your tattoo without a trained practitioner’s help. If you remove your tattoo at home, you are likely to develop scarring and other serious skin conditions, so make sure that the first step to your tattoo removal journey is to consult a skin specialist.
Using the wrong technology can also cause scarring; while lasers do remove ink from the skin, not all lasers are made for tattoo removal. Hair removal lasers such as IPL and CO2 can cause scarring and other related problems when used to address tattoo removal.
Some people claim to be professionals but do not know how to maintain and calibrate tattoo removal equipment properly. If poorly maintained laser equipment is used for tattoo removal, it might cause scarring to your skin.
Avoid using creams and scrubbing your skin to remove your tattoo. Though some of these creams promise miraculous results, they contain harsh ingredients that can harm the skin and cause scarring, among other skin problems.
Surgical tattoo removal is another way of tattoo removal that is bound to cause scarring because the procedure involves cutting the skin where the tattoo is and stitching the remaining skin together.
How can you reduce scarring before and after tattoo removal?
Consult a trained professional:
Before you visit a tattoo removal clinic, It is advised that you do your research and find licensed and reputable professional practitioners. If you know anyone who has successfully undergone the tattoo removal process without scarring, you can ask them directly or check reviews online of other clients. Expert practitioners will ensure smooth and efficient tattoo removal without leaving scar tissues.
Practice proper Aftercare:
Tattoo removal also requires proper aftercare to reduce the chances of scarring. After the tattoo removal procedure, your skin may develop scabbing, redness, swelling, and blisters; this is, however, normal as the skin starts to heal. Follow the instructions given to you by the professional on how to care for your skin after the procedure.
You can take care of the area by dressing it for a few days to avoid friction and infections. Follow up by cleaning it with mild soap and water and moisturizing it to speed up the healing process.
Do not pick your blisters or scabs. After the tattoo removal process, try and avoid touching the skin. Picking your blisters can cause further irritation and prolong the healing process.
Wear sunscreen:
Avoid exposure to the sun after your treatment, and wear sunscreen if you must be exposed. Direct exposure to UV rays can increase skin sensitivity, scarring, and other skin damage conditions.
Do not be in a hurry to rid of your tattoo:
Frequent treatments can irritate your skin and cause further scarring. Just wait and go to your next appointment as the tattoo removal expert instructed.
Practice a healthy lifestyle:
Drink lots of water, eat healthy foods, and get plenty of sleep. If you are a smoker, quit smoking to boost your immune system and speed up healing.
Summary
Every client is different when it comes to scarring after tattoo removal. To minimize the effects of scarring after tattoo removal, you should get a licensed and experienced professional help and follow up with the aftercare instructions given after the procedure.
