Tattoo removal on dark skin (African American), can my tattoo be removed? What is the best possible way to remove it? (Photo)

Question

Hello.. Need Help.. At the age of 18 I received my first tattoo. I'm currently 43 years old and want my tattoo removed. I regret ever doing this. It to a point where I wear 3/4 sleeves in the summer to avoid showing it.. I went to one consultation and was told by the Dr receptionist that she never witness the Dr ever doing a removal on a dark skinned patient as myself. (I would refrain from naming the office) She advised me not to do it... With that being said I left and never returned..

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal can be performed on all skin types, safely, with the use of the proper laser. Lasers use different wavelengths. A Q-Switched 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser can be used all on skin types. It is important that this is the wavelength used during treatments. 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!

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Laser tattoo removal can be performed safely on all skin types, with the use of the proper laser. The best laser for dark skin is a Q-Switched 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Kory Kitagawa, MD · Answer

Removing tattoos from darker skin tones can be tricky, as dark skin easily scars and becomes hyper- or hypopigmented. An advantage of using the PicoWay laser for removing tattoos on dark skin is that it uses bursts of energy – not heat – to shatter the tattoo pigment. The lack of heat means that the PicoWay is gentler than other lasers, while still being very effective. It will take at least 5 to 8 sessions to remove your tattoo. Although dark colors are the easiest to remove, yours is an older tattoo and has settled deeply into your skin. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist who is expert in tattoo removal will give you the results you want.

Tattoo removal on dark skin (African American), can my tattoo be removed? What is the best possible way to remove it? (Photo)

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