How Do Different Skin Types React to Laser Tattoo Removal?

What you may not know is that skin type does have an effect on the outcome of laser tattoo removal. While removal does work for individuals with any skin type, those with lighter skin will most likely see quicker results.

Laser light is able to remove ink from your skin because it is attracted to the darker tattoo ink. If your skin has less melanin, then the laser can accurately focus on the darker pigment. However, because the laser is designed to target the darker pigment in your skin, it can have difficulty differentiating the tattoo ink from darker skin tones. Before beginning laser removal treatments, discuss the process and expectations with a certified laser specialist.

Lighter skin types with less melanin typically have quicker success during laser tattoo removal because the laser can more easily identify the darker pigment from the lighter skin tone. If your skin has a higher melanin content, the laser will have to be programmed to a lower setting to avoid any unwanted burns, scarring or pigment changes. This lower setting also means that you’ll most likely need more sessions to completely remove the ink.

When choosing your laser tattoo removal specialist, ensure they have the experience working with different skin types and the necessary tools to perform your removal accurately to avoid side effects. Common effects you may experience as a consequence of an inexperienced technician include hypo- and hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is excess melanin formation, typically found in patients with a medium skin tone, and will heal over time. Hypopigmentation is the temporary lightening of the skin. It sometimes takes longer than hyperpigmentation to heal, but it can be reversed if you follow proper aftercare instructions provided by your removal technician.

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Leave Scars?

Laser tattoo removal is considered the best and most effective technique to remove unwanted ink because it can remove all shades without leaving damaged skin or scarring. While there may be temporary side effects like light swelling, scabbing or itching, scarring occurs in less than two percent of patients. As long as you properly follow aftercare instructions, like avoiding direct sunlight and drinking lots of water, your chances of scarring are low.

Schedule a Free Consultation With MEDermis Laser Clinic Today

With over 12 years of laser tattoo removal experience and nearly 300,000 removals, the technicians at MEDermis Laser Clinic are the most trusted and effective removal specialists in San Antonio and Austin, TX. We use only the best laser technology available — the Spectra laser system — to ensure your tattoo removal is painless, safe and effective. We’re also one of the first laser removal companies to offer a guarantee for our services — if your tattoo isn’t removed within our estimated number of sessions, we’ll continue treating the area at no additional cost to you for one full year.

Schedule your free consultation today by completing our online scheduling form or speaking with one of our specialists at 512-637-5277 (Austin) or 210-402-4030 (San Antonio).

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