Getting a tattoo removed involves targeting the ink in your skin with laser light. As the laser energy is absorbed by the ink, it is heated up and shattered. The body then begins to break down and excretes the ink. Over time, this removes the tattoo.
Depending on the tattoo, it will likely take several treatments to remove the ink from the deepest layers.
While effective, laser tattoo removal can unfortunately also be painful. Depending on the location of the tattoo, your own personal pain tolerance, the size of the tattoo, and many different factors, the amount of pain or discomfort you experience will vary. The good news is that there are several things you can do to make the experience more comfortable.
Numbing Cream
Much like you need to pay attention to tattoo aftercare after getting some ink, there are also steps you can take both before and after getting a tattoo removed that will make the process easier. One of these steps is using numbing cream.
This cream is applied to your skin prior to a removal session. It works to block the nerve endings in your skin that send pain signals to your brain. While you’ll still be able to feel, you will likely feel more of a dull sensation instead of sharp pain.
However, it should be noted that numbing creams usually work by numbing the surface of the skin. Depending on your tattoo and your situation, the laser may have to penetrate quite deep into your skin, which can make the cream less effective.
Ice Packs
Ice packs are used in several ways to make the removal process more tolerable. First, they can be used in a similar way to numbing creams and be placed on the skin prior to a session. This can help numb the area and reduce the pain of the process.
You can also use an ice pack following a tattoo removal session. Putting ice on the area can help you deal with pain, swelling, and other discomfort. Talking to a professional can help you understand the best way to use ice and other pain management tactics to find relief.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Over-the-counter pain relief options such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be very helpful for dealing with the pain of tattoo removal. These pain relievers work with your cells, nerve endings, and nervous system to prevent your brain from feeling the pain. That can make them a good option if you are getting a tattoo removed.
However, you may want to avoid aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) since it can act as a blood thinner, and this can potentially increase the chances of bleeding or bruising in the treatment area. Talk to a medical professional if you have any questions about what sort of medication is safe for you to take.
One of the most common questions we hear from people is “does tattoo removal hurt?” The answer is that it depends on many factors. For some people, the removal is painful, while others find it much milder and less difficult. We can talk to you about the process, give you all the information you need, and help you both before and after your session.
There are many reasons why a person may want to get a tattoo removed. Your life situation may have changed, and you might no longer feel comfortable with it. Your tattoo may be representative of a certain point in your life that you would like to move on from, you may not be happy with the quality of the work, or you might just no longer want the tattoo.
Whatever your reason, working with experienced professionals can help you remove it and deal with any pain or discomfort that may occur. For more information on this service, you can contact Bare Tattoo & Hair Removal at (219) 237-0044, or book your appointment online.
