Tattoo on forearm, 2.5 weeks old. Is it better to start removal treatment sooner?

Tattoo removal, if not done correctly, can result in either scarring or ghosting.  Here are some tips:
Find a reputable office with a Pico laser. It produces faster results with less scarring than a nano alone.  Tattoo removal shops are not as reputable as a Doctor. Many of these shops close as quickly as they open, leaving you out of luck on pre-paid packages.Stay out of the sun— sunlight can be harmful to healing in after any laser procedureAvoid infections- This means keep your tattoo area clean (i.e. don’t garden right after a tattoo removal on your arm, etc), don’t pick scabs or blisters if they occur.  Follow our post procedure instructions. Avoid swimming for 48 hours as water can infect the treated areas.Allow healing between treatment sessions- typically 4-8 weeks.Be healthy- while the tattoo laser breaks up the tattoo particles, your body will actually eliminate the particles. Being healthy will help achieve this process faster and allow for consistent healing. Drink lots of water, get adequate sleep, and eat vitamin enriched foods.In our practice we utilize the currently most powerful Pico laser on the market called the PiQo4 by Lumenis.  The main advantage of a stronger tattoo laser (combining nano and pico wavelengths at greater power) is faster breakup of the tattoo.  The science of tattoo removal is complex but essentially the greater power will photo acoustically break up tattoo particles in smaller pieces.
Best,
Anil Shah

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. As long as your tattoo is completely healed (which can take up to 8 weeks) you can begin the laser tattoo removal process. Several treatments are required for complete removal. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

This can be removed with laser tattoo removal. Tattoos should be removed with q switched or pico lasers. Using a PFD patch in tandem with a laser will get you more removal quickly as compared to tattoo removal without it. It will take a series of treatments, but it's difficult to determine how many treatments you'll need. You'll want to wait until it's completely healed (about 4-6 weeks) I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert. 
Best, Dr. Emer