Is there a way to lighten the tattoo, but at the same time, not jeopardizing the definitions and lines?

Question

Hi! So I've recently got a tattoo covered up. It's pretty, but one thing I can't seem to live through is how dark the tattoo is. I just wish the black wasn't as dark. I've no intentions of removing, or doing another tattoo cover-up. Thanks in advance!

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hello Juennies.  Sorry to hear about your tattoo.  You will likely be disappointed with a tattoo removal process that attempts to lighten it.  Tattoo removal does not proceed at an even pace.  Some areas lighten more quickly than other so often the tattoo appears different shades during the removal process.  This is why it would be so difficult to lighten it evenly.  Our suggestion would be to keep it or have it all removed.  Best of luck.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. A photo would've be helpful to help suggest if laser tattoo removal is an option for you. 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.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Not all patients can have 100% of removal, of the tattoo but the best approach is a combination of pico and nano technology. Depending on how many sessions you have, the lines may look faded instead of completely erased. Be sure to see a licensed technician if you decide to go froward with the treatments.Much of the tattoo is broken up by the tattoo laser. The body will eliminate the tattoo in 1 of 3 different ways including lymphatic removal, macrophages removing the particles and simple elimination through the skin. The tattoo takes time to be eliminated and patients do not return when it is 100% eliminated unless for another treatment. Best,Anil Shah

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This would be difficult. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert to go over your desired results. Tattoos should be removed with q switched or pico lasers.  It will take a series of treatments. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes, laser tattoo removal can be used to lighten a tattoo. However, the fading may not be even and uniform. By this I mean some areas tend to lighten more quickly than others thus, sometimes the tattoo appears different shades during the removal process. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Jessica H. Kim, MD, FAAD · Answer

A single laser treatment should lighten the tattoo but the fading may not necessarily be even and uniform.  As long as this possibility is acceptable to you, you may consider treatment.  I have seen patients just like you who come to "lighten" a tattoo to get another over the original.  Just be sure to consult with an experienced provider.

Richard Rosol, MD · Answer

Short answer: No.
Form follows function in coverups. They’re very dark for a reason, for better or for worse.
Softening artistic effects, such as lightening or desaturation of colors, sometimes happen “accidentally” as a tattoo is being removed, but they cannot be counted on. Iron oxide black inks can turn brown, and there can be significant dropout of lines, edges, and filled areas, wherever the ink happens to be shallowest.
If you got your tattoo VERY recently, my advice is to give it time to mellow and lighten naturally.
Good luck!

Is there a way to lighten the tattoo, but at the same time, not jeopardizing the definitions and lines?

Answers (7)

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