Tattoo Removal

Tattoo removal is a popular procedure used to eliminate unwanted tattoos from the skin.

The desire for tattoo removal can arise for many reasons, including changing personal tastes, regretting previous choices, or lifestyle changes that warrant an appearance fresh start. With advancements in technology, tattoo removal has become more effective and accessible, allowing individuals to regain clear skin. While tattoo removal is a safe and effective procedure when performed by a trusted professional, it is still a relatively complex treatment, meaning that if you are interested in pursuing tattoo removal, seeking care from an expert will ensure optimal results.

Phoenix Skin Medical, Surgical & Cosmetic Dermatology is one of the premier skin cosmetic enhancement centers in Arizona, having served the areas of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and beyond for years. With countless successful tattoo removals performed and numerous satisfied patients to date, Phoenix Skin is the place to go if you are looking for safe, effective tattoo removal.

To get started on your tattoo removal journey, schedule a personal consultation with Phoenix Skin by contacting us online or calling one of our two locations:

Before and After Photos

View More Photos

About Tattoo Removal

Tattoo removal is a medical process designed to break down the pigments in tattoo ink so they can be removed from the skin. Tattoos are created by inserting ink into the dermis, the second layer of skin beneath the epidermis. This ink can vary in color, density, and composition, impacting the method and effectiveness of removal.

There are many different techniques for removing tattoos, and tattoo removal as a whole has evolved over the years. Early tattoo removal methods used to focus on surgical excision and skin resurfacing techniques. ⁽¹⁾ Today, the most popular method is laser tattoo removal. ⁽²⁾ Phoenix Skin offers a wide variety of laser tattoo removal technologies, including:

PicoSure Laser

The PicoSure Laser is renowned for its rapid and efficient tattoo removal capabilities. As the world’s first picosecond aesthetic laser, it delivers ultra-short energy pulses in trillionths of a second, emitting laser pulses 1000 times faster than traditional nanosecond lasers. This speed enhances the photomechanical impact on ink particles, breaking them into smaller fragments that the body can naturally eliminate. PicoSure is particularly effective on stubborn ink colors like blues and greens and typically requires fewer treatment sessions compared to other lasers. Sessions are usually spaced 4–8 weeks apart, depending on the size of the tattoo and the depth of the ink. Patients often observe significant and permanent fading after each session.

Revlite Laser

The Revlite Laser by Cynosure is adept at targeting red ink pigments, which can be challenging to remove with other lasers. By utilizing specific wavelengths and frequencies, Revlite effectively breaks down red ink particles for the body’s natural processes to clear. While it may not be as fast as PicoSure, Revlite’s precision in handling red ink makes it a valuable tool in multi-colored tattoo removal. For tattoos containing multiple colors, Phoenix Skin often combines Revlite with PicoSure to optimize results. Post-treatment, patients might experience mild inflammation and redness that subsides within 1-10 days.

Stellar M22 Laser

The Stellar M22 is a versatile, non-invasive laser system designed for efficient tattoo removal, especially effective on dark-colored inks. It employs Q-Switch technology to deliver tailored treatments, breaking down ink particles into tiny fragments that the body’s immune system can naturally process. Equipped with CoolScan™ technology, the Stellar M22 ensures even energy distribution and enhances patient comfort. The number of sessions required varies based on factors like tattoo size, color, and depth, but many patients notice significant lightening after just one treatment. Additionally, the system’s safety features make it suitable for various skin types.

Benefits

Tattoo removal has grown in popularity in recent years as treatments have become more effective. ⁽³⁾ There are numerous benefits to having your tattoo or tattoos removed, including:

If you are interested in further exploring how you could potentially benefit from tattoo removal or want to learn more about the process, contact Phoenix Skin online or by calling one of our two locations:

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates for tattoo removal include men and women who wish to eliminate tattoos. Several different factors will ultimately be considered when determining whether or not you are an ideal candidate for tattoo removal, as certain skin conditions, pregnancy, or active infections may make some patients unsuitable for the treatment.

Your eligibility for tattoo removal will be determined during your personal consultation at Phoenix Skin. Generally speaking, candidates should possess realistic expectations for the procedure’s outcome and be in good overall health.

Personal Consultation

A personal consultation at Phoenix Skin Medical is essential to determine which tattoo removal method is most suitable for you based on your needs. During your consultation, one of our surgical assistants will assess your skin health and tattoos and discuss what you hope to achieve through tattoo removal. Once our surgical assistants have gathered enough information, they will work to create a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Your personal consultation is the first step on your tattoo removal journey. Schedule your consultation online today to get started, or call one of our two locations:

Preparation

Once you have decided to proceed with tattoo removal, the Phoenix Skin team will provide you with a set of detailed preoperative instructions to ensure your tattoo removal runs as smoothly as possible. Before your tattoo removal, you may be asked to:

Following these steps will minimize your risk of complications and set you up for a successful treatment process.

Procedure

The tattoo removal process will be different for each patient and depend on which technique is used. Most tattoo removal procedures at Phoenix Skin utilize one of the laser removal methods mentioned above, meaning the process is often minimally invasive for many patients. The type of technique employed will depend largely on factors such as your individual anatomy as well as the color, size, and location of your tattoos.

Recovery

Recovery from tattoo removal varies among individuals and depends on the technique used. You may initially experience some redness, swelling, or blistering, but any discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. It is often advised that you keep the treated area clean and moisturized. Most individuals resume normal activities shortly after, but should avoid sun exposure and strenuous exercise until otherwise instructed by the Phoenix Skin staff.

Results

Results from your tattoo removal will develop gradually over multiple sessions, usually spaced 4–8 weeks apart, depending on the size, location, and depth of the tattoo ink. The number of treatments required will depend on the size and complexity of your tattoo. As treatments progress, the ink will fade significantly until the tattoo is barely visible or completely removed. Scarring risks are low when professional techniques are employed, especially with the adept use of lasers.

Cost of Tattoo Removal in Arizona

The cost of your tattoo removal will depend on several factors and can be discussed during your personal consultation. At Phoenix Skin, we place a strong emphasis on making tattoo removal accessible to anyone who wishes to pursue it, which is why we are happy to offer financing options to those who qualify.

FAQ

References

1. Henley JK, Zurfley F, Ramsey ML. Laser Tattoo Removal. PubMed. Published 2022. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28723036/
2. Hernandez L, Mohsin N, Frech FS, Dreyfuss I, Vander Does A, Nouri K. Laser tattoo removal: laser principles and an updated guide for clinicians. Lasers in Medical Science. 2022;37(6):2581-2587. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-022-03576-2
3. American Society of Plastic Surgeons ® Endorsed Partner.; 2023. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2023/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2023.pdf