Salabrasion tattoo removal - how safe is it?

Laser tattoo removal continues to be the gold standard for tattoo removal in the US. Salabrasion is a lesser treatment that is highly unpredictable. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

I know that this is not the answer you want, but I do not recommend salabrasion for your tattoo removal.  The results are not good for this procedure.  You will likely have ink residual and scarring.  Laser treatments are the only reliable treatment for all but the smallest tattoos.  

Salabrasion is a crude variation of the medical procedure, dermabrasion.  Salt is used to abrade the skin.  The depth of injury cannot be easily controlled and a scar is the expected outcome.  The scar tissue will likely obscure to an extent the underlying tattoo.  Most physicians do not consider this crude procedure safe,  nor is it's use by a physician typical.Speak with your recruiter, sometimes if you embark on treatment, they may be able to allow you to be inducted.  Often the location and nature of the tattoo (i.e. in a visible area, or gang related) factor in the recruiters ability to decide what can be allowed.The picosure laser may be able to remoel the tattoo faster than previous technology depending on the color. If it is practical, surgical excision (removal) by a plastic surgeon may be an option in your case.  Rarely, a physician can perform dermabrasion.  Sometimes combining ablative fractional lasers with a tattoo removal laser at the same visit can result in more pigment removal per treatment.  Multiple laser treatments, however, remain the rule.Good luck and thank you and the other brave young men and women who volunteer to protect and serve our country.