Is it easier to remove a new or older tattoo?

Question

I have seen varying opinions on whether a new or older tattoo is easier to remove. Some doctors say a newer tattoo is easier to remove because it hasn’t “settled” into the deeper layers of the skin, while others say if a tattoo is newer the ink is more dense and harder to remove. Some say if a tattoo is older the ink has had time to fade naturally so it is easier to remove. What is the truth?

Wayne Wertheim, MD · Answer

we do a lot of laser tattoo removal in our office. We have not been able to make a blanket statement as to which is easier to remove. There are so many factors other than "age" of the piece that come into play. The skin type, the age of the piece, the the colors, the ink type, the artist, the depth of the ink etc. all these affect how the removal will work. Some of the newer ink may be more laser friendly while some older pieces may have faded already. in general if there are two similar pieces with no other variable the older pieces seem easier to remove

Evan B. Shapiro, MD · Answer

There are many factors that effect how readily and completely a Tattoo can be removed in any individual.  These include type of ink, depth of ink placement in the skin, location of the Tattoo, color of the ink to mention a few.  Newer Tattoos are not necessarily easier or more difficult to remove.

Kristin J. Tarbet, MD, FACS · Answer

Removing a tattoo has alot to deal with the amount of ink that was placed, how deep the ink was placed, the color of the tattoo, and how dark the tattoo is. All of these variable tend to alter the time frame it takes for a tattoo to be removed. I would speak with your doctor and have he or she look at it to get a good idea as to how easy it would be to remove and if they feel it is easier to wait a bit before removing it.

Sachit Shah, MD · Answer

It is much easier to remove an older tattoo. 
If the tattoo is less than one year old, I think it does take time and the tattoos over 3 years go a little faster. 
Colours make a difference but I am finding that the newer picosecond lasers we are getting better results. 
Best Wishes with your tattoo removal

Brian Citro, MD · Answer

The truth is it depends on many factors. Type and color of ink, amount of ink, depth of the ink, etc. For older tattoos, the biggest factor I deal with is the ink depth. Some old military tattoos and gang tattoos were placed with very deep ink which is hard to remove. I also deal with people who have had quickly applied discount tattoos, or promotional tattoos. Despite being new, they are easy to remove because there is very little ink. So. . .it depends. Best of luck.

Is it easier to remove a new or older tattoo?

Answers (6)

Answer: Tattoo removal

Answer: Tattoo removal

Answer: Tattoo removal doesn't depend on the age of the tattoo, necessarily.

Answer: Tattoo removal doesn't depend on the age of the tattoo, necessarily.

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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Is it easier to remove a new or older tattoo?

Answers (6)

Answer: Tattoo removal

Answer: Tattoo removal

Answer: Tattoo removal doesn't depend on the age of the tattoo, necessarily.

Answer: Tattoo removal doesn't depend on the age of the tattoo, necessarily.

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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.