Can you remove unwanted black lines from a cover up? (Photo)

Question

I started a cover up and there are black lines visible from the old tattoo? Can I get those removed after the cover up is finished, or stop where I’m at and fade the lines now?

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

A licensed Medical Aesthetican would be able to remove the unwanted black lines with a laser tattoo machine, however any color that was placed over the original tattoo would be targeted as well and would likely be removed along with the black lines. You should book a consultation with a medical aesthetican.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello,If you stop where you are at now and begin treatments theres a better chance the darker lines of the tattoo will look faded. Although there is no guarantee the laser will evenly fade the lines. Keep in mind, much of the tattoo is broken up by the tattoo laser. The body will eliminate the tattoo in 1 of 3 different ways including lymphatic removal, macrophages removing the particles and simple elimination through the skin. The tattoo takes time to be eliminated and patients do not return when it is 100% eliminated unless for another treatment. Not all patients can have 100% of removal, of the tattoo but the best approach is a combination of pico and nano technology. Depending on how many sessions you have, the lines may look faded instead of completely erased. Be sure to see a licensed technician if you decide to go froward with the treatments.
Best,Anil Shah

Misbah Khan MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

I would recommend you lighten the lines u don't want with lasers and then continue with coverup. the preexisting tattoo will lighten up if its already kinda old and lighter in color. if u place more ink on top it will be that much harder to have it lighten up by lasers

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This can be removed with laser tattoo removal. However, it is difficult to do a partial removal. Tattoos should be removed with q switched or pico lasers. It will take a series of treatments, but it's difficult to determine how many sessions you'll need. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Evan B. Shapiro, MD · Answer

I would recommend pausing where you are, undergoing laser tattoo removal to lighten the lines, and then proceeding with the cover up. Many people undergo laser tattoo removal to lighten a pre-existing tattoo prior to a cover up. Targeting the older black lines after your cover up is complete could jeopardize the integrity of your new tattoo. By working together with a laser tattoo removal specialist and your tattoo artist, you can ensure optimal results.  Best of Luck!

Michelle Ellern, DO · Answer

Tattoo removal is not precise enough to only remove the line and not affect the ink directly next to it.  If you want those lines gone do it first and then do the cover up.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I recommend having the lines faded or removed before continuing your cover up. If you wait till after your cover up the laser may remove some of the new tattoo. I recommended having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Norman N. Bein, MD, FACS, RVT · Answer

Yes, these can be treated but I would recommend against adding more ink until you remove the unwanted lines.  Find an experienced medical based clinic with a laser with nano and picosecond technology (such as Cutera Enlightlen) to evaluate this for you.  It will take a series of treatments which varies from person to person.

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

I would suggest that you have the lines removed before you do the cover up. Once the cover up is in place it may be difficult to treat the lines without distorting the new tattoo.

Jared Mallalieu, DO · Answer

Thanks for posting! You will want to fade or remove those lines before continuing. If you wait until the cover up is complete and then use a laser you will have some removal of the cover up too! If you just need to fade it, 3 treatments or so will probably do the trick. Best of luck, Dr. M

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