Is Laser Tattoo Removal Possible for Dark Skin?

July 27, 2009
Asked By:Penzi in Flushing, NY

I am a very dark-skinned black woman interested in laser tattoo removal. From what I've read it seems questionable as to whether or not I am a candidate because of how dark my complexion is.I don't develop keloids, have a few small (<1/2") hypertrophic scars that have smoothed over the years, and have never scarred from a burn. I have two tattoos that I am interested in removing (pictured is the larger of the two; approx. 4 x 4" on my right upper back).Can anyone weigh in as to whether or not laser removal is possible, how many sessions would be required and expense?

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Answers (15)

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July 7, 2015

Answer: Tattoo removal for darker skin

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David S. Rosenberg, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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July 7, 2015

Answer: Tattoo removal for darker skin

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David S. Rosenberg, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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June 9, 2015

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal on Darker Skin

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Mansour Bendago, FRCSCCertified Plastic Surgeon
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June 9, 2015

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal on Darker Skin

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Mansour Bendago, FRCSCCertified Plastic Surgeon
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August 5, 2013

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal for Dark Skin

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Jhonny Salomon, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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August 5, 2013

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal for Dark Skin

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Jhonny Salomon, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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January 8, 2019

Answer: Tattoo Removal on Darker Skin

January 8, 2019

Answer: Tattoo Removal on Darker Skin

September 21, 2018

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal is Possible for Dark Skin

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Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal is Possible for Dark Skin