Color tattoo removal - bright colors, mixed with white ink. As far as I know, to remove white color is not possible. Thoughts?

Question

Hello! I hope somebody here can give me some answers. After quite some research, I am still not sure if all my hope of removing my colorful chest piece is in vain or if I should go ahead and try a picosure laser therapy. Please take a look at the photos and tell me what you think. Has a doctor made experience with the color white and large aquarel tats in general? The ink used is from the brand called "Everlast" and the needle is "Black cat" from "electric ink" if that helps. Thank you so much!

Lisa Vuich, MD · Answer

Thanks for your questions. Your multi color tattoo is professional grade and will require the "best of the best" in terms of laser technology, especially to attack those blue greens and red yellows. No laser wavelength is drawn to white ink. However, what white you have is surrounded by color, and it is likely that the white ink particles will get hit with what is called a "photo acoustic effect" and can in fact clear that way or fade so much you can't see it anymore. Consider searching for a provider who has the Cutera Enlighten III. This is a dual nanosecond and picosecond laser which has a new 3rd wavelength (hence the III in the name) which we use for those light greens and blues especially (it is 670nm at 660 picosecond). Its 532nm wavelength will get your red/yellow and its 1064nm wavelength will get your blacks, dark blues. Space your treatments out 8 weeks and do not get treated if you are tan or will be exposing the area to sun as this will increase the likelihood of hyperpigmentation and scarring. 
Best,
Lisa Vuich, MD

Robert Pettis, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  We use the PicoSure laser tattoo removal system and are familiar with removing partial and full tattoos with multiple colors involved.  We also have the 532nm Hand piece, which is used to specifically target red ink, which is usually utilized after your first couple of sessions.  As stated in another answer, it is unlikely that the white ink can be removed, but the idea of tattooing skin color over white is a good option.  As for the rest of the colors, with time and patience, you would likely achieve the results you desire, but the key is time and patience.  You will want to space your treatments 8 weeks apart and I would estimate this removal would take 5-7 treatments.  I recommend you seek out a skilled and well experienced practitioner who can show you before, during and after photos of colorful tattoos they have been successful in removing.  Seek out a couple of consultations and work together with the clinician to create a treatment plan that you are comfortable with.  I hope you find this answer helpful.  All the best to you!

David S. Rosenberg, MD · Answer

we have the picosure laser and it would be effective at removing all the colors but i'm not sure about the white.  If only white ink remains you may be able to get a skin-colored ink done over the white ink to blend it in with the surrounding skin.  Hope that is helpful. Good luck!DSR

Color tattoo removal - bright colors, mixed with white ink. As far as I know, to remove white color is not possible. Thoughts?

Answers (3)

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Color tattoo removal - bright colors, mixed with white ink. As far as I know, to remove white color is not possible. Thoughts?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.