Advertising is an all-powerful modern entity, particularly with regards to cosmetics. Miracle lotions and potions, particularly those that claim to remove tattoos, are particularly hot in the marketing world at the moment. Simply searching for the keywords “tattoo removal cream before and after” instantly brings up a long list of products that claim to get rid of tattoo ink in record time. This begs the question, “What do the before and after effects of these creams really look like?”
When questioning the efficacy of these creams it is probably worth considering the fact that tattoo removal creams are applied directly to the upper layer of the skin. As such, it is probably a bit of a stretch to expect them to penetrate the dermis. It is important to remember that tattoo ink is meant to last for life, and as such the ink is required to remain lodged somewhere “safe”. Tattoo ink is stored in the secondary layer of the skin, known as the “dermis”. This is well below the surface of the skin and therefore well beyond the reach of any topical creams.
This is not to say that these creams have no effect on the ink whatsoever. Taking a look at a few tattoo removal before and after pictures will show, at the very least, some fading. One of the most popular ingredients in tattoo removal creams is Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a chemical that removes dead skin cells and prepares the body to regenerate a new, healthy layer of skin. The idea behind using this chemical in tattoo removal creams is that it fades away the surface layers of the ink, one bit at a time. Logically, this makes sense. Over time, a person’s “after photos” will probably show at least some fading. Unfortunately, this chemical is not designed to penetrate into the deeper layers of the dermis.
It is important to remember that any tattoo removal before and after photos will not show the desired results for the first few months. It can take up to a year for any noticeable fading to take place. It really depends on the quality of the ink, as well as the size and age of the tattoo. Over time, the tattoo may become so light that it is barely noticeable. Using these creams is almost always on a trial-and-error basis. It might not be an awful idea to try a few lotions until one seems to do the trick.
The after effects of using these creams may include itching, burning, and scabbing. This is to be expected since these lotions are designed to first break through the skin and then penetrate the first layer in order to remove the tattoo ink. The scabs created in the process often contain the ink that needs to be removed. Users often report that lighter inks are more easily removed than solid, dark lines.
In order to be sure that the right tattoo removal cream is being used, dermatologists should be consulted before trying out any new products. This is the best way to eliminate any unpleasant chemical after effects that could mar the skin. Without taking this necessary precaution the latter half of the before and after pictures could be disappointing.
Tattoo removal cream before and after pictures often show that the use of these products yields some results. Before purchasing any product, however, it is important to have realistic expectations. Fading of the ink may be a possibility, though it is probably that the tattoo may not disappear completely.
Important Note: Always consult your physician before using any tattoo removal cream. The material provided on this website is for educational purposes only, and not intended to replace the advice of your physician.