Getting a tattoo is a momentous occasion because the art usually reminds you of a great
memory or the love of your life. However, when it comes to love, we must understand that sometimes, it can die a slow and torture-filled death. When this happens, you are left with a tattoo with the name or the face of the person you now detest more than anyone on Earth.
Tattoo removal is not an easy experience, for both the artist and the client. This is why most artists or dermatologists will go out of their way to remove the offending tattoo from the area while causing the client as little discomfort as possible.
Before we get to that, please understand that a tattoo is the product of tiny needle pricks that pierce the inner layer of the skin, otherwise known as the dermis. This process transfers ink to that layer where it is stored. Now, unlike the epithelial layer, which peels and changes, the dermis stays there, it is constant and although the tattoo may fade ever so slightly, it will remain there until you do something about it.
While laser removal is an effective option, the procedure will cost you so much more than you paid for to get the tattoo done, as most clinics will charge $400 to $500 per session. You may need several sessions over a period of months before your tattoos are removed or faded, and in some cases, the procedure can scar the skin or discolor it because of trauma.
So your cheapest option would be tattoo removal cream. However, do they really work? Lets see what key ingredients make up tattoo removal creams.
What Is Tattoo Removal Cream Usually Made Of?
TCA
Tricholoracetic acid or TCA, is the usual ingredient that manufacturers use for tattoo removal cream. This component encourages the skin cells to turn over at a rapid rate. This leads to peeling skin and the tattoo lightens over time. However, please note that it should be used as per directions. Using more than you should can cause pain, inflammation, skin irritation, discoloration and blistering.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is another component used to combat stubborn tattoo pigments. This works by lightening the skin, as it helps reduce the production of melanin, which is responsible for pigmentation. These are often used in topical ointments for freckle or age spot removal. Thus, it is used in tattoo removal creams as a whitening agent or an anti-pigmentation assistant. However, please note that this component can lead to problems like blistering, redness, stinging and swelling. Once again, it would be wise to use the tattoo removal solution as directed, as using as much as you want can lead to certain skin problems.
Astringents
Astringents may be used as well. The use of this component would be to remove any deep-seated pigmentation that may have loosened up. However, they are minor components, as TCA and hydroquinone do most of the work.
Kojic Acid And Vitamin C
Kojic acid is used in bleaching soap. It inhibits melanin production and it all helps slough off older skin cells to reveal fresher skin. Vitamin C on the other hand, is a known component that speeds up glutathione production and is used to whiten because of its acidic properties.
Green Tea, Lemon Extract and Aloe
Some plants may be used in the cream based on their benefits. These may be part of your tattoo removal cream because of their moisturizing and anti-oxidant purposes.
Licorice
Licorice is a natural ingredient that may be added to improve the concoction’s whitening ability. This natural remedy is also used to treat discolored skin, in an effort to make the skin color even.
In a nutshell, tattoo removal is done with the help of chemical and mechanical exfoliation procedures that slowly peel off old skin to reveal the new one, in an effort to remove it.
Get Expert Help
If you plan on having your tattoo removed, whether by topical cream and/or laser treatments, make sure you seek out the expert help of a doctor who understands your concerns and is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that the procedure goes as smoothly as possible.
Once again, it would help if you followed the instructions, is this would make sure that you were applying the right amount for the area you want to clean up. You could consult with a dermatologist or a tattoo artist for any suggestions about products they trust. You might even want to ask them how long it would take for the specific area you want removed.
We cannot stress how important it is to remember that you may be asked to do a few sessions of laser treatment to remove most of the pigment before you can put tattoo removal cream. Some dermatologists may prescribe a few facial exfoliation treatments for the area of concern. This peeling procedure is called a pre-fading technique by most specialists.
Having your tattoo removed is an emotionally painful experience. This is why it is the job of the artist to remove the area as slowly as he or she can. This will prevent deep burns and blisters, among other things. With the help of a few laser treatments and/or tattoo removal cream, you can slowly make your way to cleaner skin, which you can use as the new base of your tattoo of choice, if you are interested in getting a new one. However, please note that most tattoo artists prefer not to utilize areas that have undergone treatment for the next few months, as the said locations are very easily damaged and inflamed.
Your skin is your body’s first layer of defense. This is why you should take care of it and keep yourself well hydrated and free from infection. Please note that the tattoo removal cream may cause irritation. So after the procedure, you will be asked to make sure that the area remains clean, as dirt in the area or nearby can lead to inflammation and other skin concerns.
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.
