Are red ink tattoos impossible to completely remove? (photo)

Question

I got this done as a cover up. And long story short...I don't like it. I've come to find out that red ink is one of the hardest ones to remove and now I feel like such an idiot for not just lasering the first tattoo away in the first place. I've searched all over the web and have not found any successfully removed red ink tattoos. They all have obvious red lines that look like a nasty rash. My question is....would getting this completely removed be impossible? I don't want to make another stupid decision.

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

Great question.  Thank you for contributing.  I am sorry you regret your tattoo with black and red colors.  Although the red is more difficult to remove, the good news is that it can definitely be removed. 
Our office specializes in laser tattoo removal.  
We use the Alex Trivantage laser which is an excellent option for your black, orange and red tattoo.  The black ink can be removed precisely with the Q Switched 755nm or Q Switched 1064nm laser. The Alex Trivantage laser also converts the 1064 nm wavelength to a 532 nm wavelength via a process known as harmonic doubling with a potassium titanium phosphate (KTP) crystal.  This Q switched 532 nm wavelength is designed to precisely target orange and red tattoo and we get excellent results with this laser.  
If you would like to learn more about the procedure I recommend an in person consultation with a board certified dermatologist with cosmetic training.
Wishing you well.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Not impossible. The number of treatments will not be predictable till you start treatment.  This is a harder color to remove, but not impossible. See an expert.  Best, Dr. Emer.

E. Ronald Finger, MD · Answer

The question is, is red ink in a tattoo impossible to remove. With a laser, it may be. Lasers break up the pigment which is then distributed throughout your lymphatic system and liver. Incidentally, it is believed that red ink can be carcinogenic.

The most effective way to remove red ink or for that matter any ink is with the GoTattless system. This actually extracts the ink out of the body. This will take sometimes 4 to 5 treatments, but it is effective.

My suggestion is to find a GoTattless representative in your area. Best of luck to you.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

It is not impossible to remove a red inked tattoo, it just is difficult to remove. But, it can definitely be done.  I would recommend going to a  doctor that has a lot of experience with tattoo removals. Best, Dr. Green

Kristin J. Tarbet, MD, FACS · Answer

It's not impossible to remove a red tattoo. Its just difficult. It may take quite a few sessions. I would recommend following up with a reputable provider for evaluation.

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