Just got a coverup of a year-old tattoo, and I hate it. Can I get it removed? (Photo)

Question

Like the title says, I got a coverup of a tattoo that I had for about a year. The new tattoo is so dark I can't see myself liking it - I already started researching removal. However, seeing as it is a coverup, and the artist used white ink for the shading, I'm concerned this isn't a realistic possibility for me. I'm a 21 y/o, fair-skinned, female (if any of that info is relevant). Please help!

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to remove or lighten a tattoo that is a cover-up, but the process may be more challenging and require more sessions than a standard tattoo removal. The main reasons are:

Multiple Ink Layers: A cover-up tattoo has additional pigment layered over the old tattoo, often with darker colors to mask the original design. This means more ink for the laser to break down.

White Ink: White ink can be particularly difficult to remove because it may contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which can darken or turn gray when treated with certain laser wavelengths.

Color Variety: Different colors require different laser wavelengths for effective removal.

Treatment Considerations:

Laser Removal: Q-switched or picosecond lasers are the gold standard for tattoo removal. Multiple wavelengths may be needed for different colors.

Number of Sessions: You should expect more sessions than usual—potentially 10 or more—depending on ink density, color, and how your skin responds.

Possible Limitations: Some residual pigment or ghosting may remain, especially with white or light-colored ink.

Skin Type and Safety: Fair skin generally responds well to laser tattoo removal, but proper settings and aftercare are crucial to minimize scarring or pigment changes.

Summary:
Your tattoo can be treated with laser removal, but it will likely require more sessions, careful color targeting, and realistic expectations, especially given the presence of white ink and the density of the cover-up.

Just got a coverup of a year-old tattoo, and I hate it. Can I get it removed? (Photo)

Answers (1)

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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Just got a coverup of a year-old tattoo, and I hate it. Can I get it removed? (Photo)

Answers (1)

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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.