The best way to speed up laser tattoo removal?

Question

I have a small all black tattoo behind my ear. I got a job offer that does not allow me to keep it there and I have 2 months left to remove it completely. 5 days ago I had my second laser treatment and it really seems to be working, but I want to know if there is any way I can help my body "get rid of it" faster since there is a chance for me to loose the job offer. How long do I HAVE TO wait before the next treatment and are there any natural ways to speed up the process. Kind regards

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello, tattoo removal can result in either scarring or ghosting.  Here are some tips:
Faster pulse second technology like pico second is a better technology than nano for scarring. Experience can help patients.  Oversight from an experienced physician (best if plastic, facial plastic or dermatology) will likely result in safer outcomes.Stay out of the sun— sunlight can be harmful to healing in after any laser procedureAvoid infections- This means keep your tattoo area clean (i.e. don’t garden right after a tattoo removal on your arm, etc), don’t pick scabs or blisters if they occur.  Follow our post procedure instructions.  Avoid swimming for 48 hours as water can infect the treated areas.Allow healing between treatment sessions- typically 4-8 weeksBe healthy- while the tattoo laser breaks up the tattoo particles, your body will actually eliminate the particles in one of 3 ways.  being healthy will help achieve this process faster and allow for consistent healingBest, 
Anil Shah

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Assuming that the tattoo is small, the area behind the ear is a really good place for excision. Speak with a surgeon. Otherwise, continue with your laser treatments. If there is any left when your job starts, you could cover it with makeup until it's completely gone. My best, Dr. Sheila Nazarian @drsheilanazarian on Instagram

Morris Westfried, MD · Answer

You will probably not get rid of the tattoo in one more session. If it essential it be removed in that time frame consult a dermatologist or plastic surgeon re cutting it out .A scar behind the ear should be cosmetically acceptable.

Mark Taylor, MD · Answer

The area behind the ear is a good area for excision.  If the tattoo is smaller that a dime, it may be able to be excised with a nice cosmetic result.  If it is large than that, but  of a shape that lends itself to excision, that may still be possible.  Treating the tattoo with a fractional ablative laser, prior to treatment with the tattoo laser can also speed put the treatment process.  The R-20 method, two treatments on the same day separated by 20 minutes, has also been shown to accelerate the laser tattoo removal process.

The best way to speed up laser tattoo removal?

Answers (4)

Answer: It may be possible to excise the tattoo behind your ear with minimal scar if it is smaller than a dime.

Answer: It may be possible to excise the tattoo behind your ear with minimal scar if it is smaller than a dime.

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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.

The best way to speed up laser tattoo removal?

Answers (4)

Answer: It may be possible to excise the tattoo behind your ear with minimal scar if it is smaller than a dime.

Answer: It may be possible to excise the tattoo behind your ear with minimal scar if it is smaller than a dime.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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