Tattoos are engraved into the skin using special tattoo devices. To do this, needles dipped in tattoo ink are inserted into the skin up to 10,000 times per minute. This process happens so quickly that it cannot be detected by the human eye. The upper layer of the skin is penetrated so that the color is applied to the dermis. The overlying upper skin layer (epidermis) is constantly renewed. A renewal cycle takes about 28 days. However, as the color is applied to the deeper layer of the skin, the tattoo remains permanently visible. The exact penetration depth is determined individually when the tattoo is applied, as the thickness of the skin layers can vary depending on the area.
If people are not satisfied with their tattoo or no longer enjoy the appearance of their skin after a while, a tattoo removal Berlin can be considered. Laser tattoo removal is a modern, effective and gentle option.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
During laser tattoo removal, the laser device emits pulses of light. These penetrate the upper layer of the skin without damaging it. The short and intense light pulses are then absorbed by the color particles in the skin. The strong energy ensures that the color pigments are broken up and split into a multitude of tiny individual parts. These small residues are then transported away by the blood and lymph vessels.
Laser technology can be used to remove not only tattoos, but also permanent make-up and skin changes such as pigment spots and age spots.
How long does it take for the tattoo to disappear?
The tattoo does not usually disappear completely immediately. A treatment session lasts about 30 minutes. The body is then given time to remove the particles in question and to recover and regenerate. After a break of several weeks, the next treatment takes place. In this way, the tattoo gradually fades until only a slight shadow or no traces are visible. How many individual treatments are required depends, among other things, on how large the tattoo is and which colors it contains. Most tattoos require at least six treatment sessions.
There is no guarantee that the tattoo will disappear completely. Every body reacts differently. As a rule, however, modern laser devices achieve effective and satisfactory results.
Is tattoo laser removal painful?
The sensation of pain is very individual. Some people have a lower pain threshold than others. In principle, laser tattoo removal is comparatively gentle and soft, but not completely pain-free. There may be a temporary burning and pulling sensation on the skin. In addition, the intense light pulses often lead to a stinging sensation. Many patients compare the feeling during tattoo removal to that of getting a tattoo. To make the treatment as comfortable as possible, we regularly cool the treatment areas. The laser devices also have integrated cooling mechanisms. If desired, additional anesthesia can be administered using an anesthetic cream.
Who is allowed to remove a tattoo with a laser?
Laser treatments may only be carried out by trained and licensed physicians. This was stipulated by law, which came into force this year (2021). Previously, it was also possible for other people (e.g. in tattoo studios) to offer and carry out laser treatment.
Since the use of lasers by non-professionals and a lack of knowledge of the special features and diseases of the skin can lead to high risks such as scars and burns, laser treatment has only been carried out by doctors since 2021.
Before each treatment, Dr. Kors also examines whether there are any skin diseases or skin changes in the areas in order to rule out any health risks in advance. For you as a patient, this means maximum safety and satisfaction with the treatment and the result achieved.
Does laser treatment have risks or side effects?
With an experienced and specially trained specialist, laser treatment is a safe and effective method for a beautiful complexion. Temporary reddening of the skin, skin irritation, feelings of tension, burning, itching or loss of sensation may occur. This discomfort subsides on its own within a short time. In addition, a crust forms on the skin after the laser treatment. It indicates the skin’s regeneration process and should never be aggressively removed. After a few days, it loosens on its own, falls off and reveals the fresh skin cells.
Are there other methods of tattoo removal?
In principle, it is possible to remove tattoos surgically. However, this procedure is not suitable for large tattoos and is at best an alternative for removing small tattoos. The operation is associated with wounds and possible scars. Surgical procedures generally involve a higher risk of side effects than minimally invasive procedures.
Laser treatment is the gold standard for tattoo removal that is as gentle and scar-free as possible.
