Laser removal of a cosmetic tattoo has turned blue, what do I do? (Photo)

Question

I had cosmetic tattooing done to my lips but it was outside of my lips so I was told it could be removed with laser.....2years later it's still blue and I'm thinking of having it cut out from around my lips. Any info about a lip lift or Vermillionectomy please ?? Scaring ...healing time

Kory Kitagawa, MD · Answer

I’m sorry for your distress. The PicoWay laser uses extremely short bursts of high-powered energy to shatter the pigment in tattoos. Because it doesn’t create much heat, it should not change the color of the tattoo. It can be adjusted to target only the blue cosmetic tattoo, without affecting your surrounding skin. A board-certified dermatologist who is an expert at tattoo removal will be able to resolve this problem for you.

Lauren Chavez, MD · Answer

I'm so sorry that happened to you. I know it is very distressing. We have used, very successfully, a great Q-switched YAG laser (you don't "need" a pico) to remove this. However, no matter what laser is used, I would strongly suggest a TEST SPOT, to see how the ink responds. It COULD get darker, before it gets lighter, and, a test spot should tell you that! Healing time should be minimal, and, you should not see any scarring :)

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question and for including a photo.  This ink can be treated with the PicoWay laser, we have seen this before in our office and have been very successful in removing the ink.  The PicoWay Laser (Candela/Syneron) uses photoacoustic
impact/pressure waves rather than photothermal/heat.  This process has less heat, therefore it is
more comfortable and the chances of hyperpigmentation are less.  The Pico-second pulse shatters the ink into
even smaller particles, allowing the body to more easily absorb the ink. You can click on the weblink below and put in your zip code to "find a provider" in your area.Good Luck!

Laser removal of a cosmetic tattoo has turned blue, what do I do? (Photo)

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Laser removal of a cosmetic tattoo has turned blue, what do I do? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.