Tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years. Approximately 10%-20%  of the Singapore population get some sort of tattoos at some point of their lives. As such, there is a surge in requests for removal of tattoos. It is estimated that as many as 50% of them wish to have their tattoos removed due to various reasons. However, the thought of going through the tattoo removal process may be frightening.

Tattoos can now be removed without undergoing painful surgery. Tag: tattoo removal singapore

HOW DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL IN SINGAPORE WORK?

Tattoos can be treated with a specific type of laser called Q-switch Nd:Yag Laser. The high energy Laser beam can penetrate through the outer layer of the skin, shatter and destroy the tattoo ink permanently. Your body immune system then naturally removes the fragmented ink pigments over the next few weeks. This is how Laser treatment lightens your tattoos over time.

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HOW EFFECTIVE IS A TATTOO REMOVAL TREATMENT?

This varies from person to person. Multiple factors such as the colour, density, location, depth, age of the tattoo inks and skin colour affect the efficacy of laser treatment. Generally, black and blue tattoos respond relatively well to Laser treatment. Colours such as yellow and red respond very poorly to laser. Laser treatment can potentially achieve significant fading of the tattoo if used correctly and if you adhere to the treatment protocol.

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IS TATTOO REMOVAL PAINFUL?

Laser tattoo removal can be uncomfortable or painful. Numbing cream is usually applied prior to the treatment. If the treated tattoo is huge, treatment can be divided into sections.

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HOW MANY SESSIONS DO I TYPICALLY NEED FOR TATTOO REMOVAL?

Every tattoo responds to laser treatment differently. The number of treatment session depends on a number of factors such as location, depth, colour, density of the tattoo inks, and your skin type. It typically takes about 3-10 treatment sessions, 4-6 weeks apart, to see optimal results. The best way to estimate how many treatment sessions may be needed is to observe how the tattoo responds to the first treatment.

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WILL THE TATTOOS DISAPPEAR COMPLETELY AFTER LASER TREATMENT?

Laser treatment may lighten tattoos significantly, and sometimes remove some tattoos completely. Most tattoos, especially coloured tattoos, cannot be removed completely. It is important to discuss with your doctor first before starting treatment.

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ANY SIDE EFFECTS FROM TATTOO REMOVAL? 

Laser tattoo removal can potentially cause scarring such as hyperpigmentation (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation), hypopigmentation of the treated area (too much lightening), or hypertrophic and keloid scars.

There is a risk of skin infection after laser treatment. You will be prescribed an antiseptic cream to apply over the treated area during the recovery period.

Redness, crusting, blistering and mild bleeding may occur right after laser treatment which will resolve within 1-2 weeks.

Therefore, it is very important to consult a doctor and understand the potential risks before initiating any laser tattoo treatment.

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HOW SOON CAN I GET BACK TO WORK AND DAILY ACTIVITIES?

Most people can return to work and their daily activities immediately after treatment. Some warmth, swelling and discomfort will be expected around the treated area.

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You may be wishing you had not made such a long lasting mark on your body. It is OK to change your mind. Whatever the reasons may be, we are here to support you in your journey to the fresh start that you desire.  

If you wish to find out more, visit us at S Aesthetics Clinic to speak to our doctors.