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

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.

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.

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

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.

I am sorry to hear about your concerns. Pico lasers are the most advanced technology. I utilize the PiQo4 laser which has 4 Pico wavelengths including the 532 wavelength ideal for red pigment and I also use the Picosure for a total of 5 Pico wavelengths. Certain colors respond best to certain wavelengths. The amount of treatments can vary based on several factors such as the location of your tattoo, your skin tone, how sharp the ink is, and how quickly your body eliminates the ink. Even with advanced lasers and multiple wavelengths complete removal is not always possible but it can be. I believe that tattoos are removed faster and safer with Pico lasers and there is less risk of scarring. I think it is important not only to seek the best technology but an experienced laser tattoo removal provider.

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.

Hello, thank you for your question and for including a photo. Red ink does definitely respond very well to the 532 wavelength pulse. We use the PicoWay laser here in our facility, it has a 532wavelength. 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.  Because your body also plays a part in ridding the skin of ink, it is impossible to guarantee 100% complete removal of any tattoo.  The pico-second technology can usually remove a tattoo in about half as many treatments as the traditional Q-switch devices. You can check in your area to see if this device is available.Good Luck!