Will ghost tattoo lines go away? (photo)

Question

I just got done with my 7th removal session today and when they were applying the topical steroid, I noticed white lines where the tattoo used to be.. the girl said that they were caused from the tattoo needle, not the removal from the laser. I am just wondering if they will go away :( I miss my naked skin.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to laser tattoo removal. Hyperpigmentation or "ghost tattoo" can  be caused from the initial tattoo process if the needle was to deep in the skin, it can create a scar, which sometimes is not present due tho the ink covering it. This may be improved with a series of microneedling 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.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This can be improved with a combination of lasers and microneedling/prp. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

This is caused by the laser removing some of the natural pigment when removing the tattoo. It is unavoidable in most cases. I would continue to remove the ink until you are happy. At that point, consider laser resurfacing, PRP, and microneedling to improve pigmentation.

Kory Kitagawa, MD · Answer

If you just had your seventh tattoo removal sessions, you may not be quite finished with treatment. If you are finished, it will take about 2 months for your body to completely eliminate the pigment that was shattered in your final treatment. If you still have ghosting at that point, it is probably due to scarring rather than pigment alone. This can be improved with resurfacing procedures. Consult a few board-certified dermatologists who are expert in tattoo removal if you still see the ghost tattoo in two months.

Wayne Wertheim, MD · Answer

Before addressing the ghosting you still have ink present in the area. I am confused as to why the ghosting is he concern? are you done with the treatments or are you continuing to remove the ink remaining?
Ghosting is common after removal. there are many thoughts about it from being caused during the tattooing process to being caused by removing pigment during the laser process. 
We find that over time re-pigmentation does occur as the skin is exposed to sunlight. we also have had good results in treating the area (after completion of the removal) with fractional laser treatments. In general it should become barely perceptible over time but may never disappear completely.
Good luck!

Brian Citro, MD · Answer

Thanks for posting with a photo. The white lines are likely related to hypopigmentation and is a result of the laser treatments. The areas may darken up to match your skin or they may not. I recommend sunscreen to reduce the skin color in the surrounding area but this is not a fix, simply a way to make the area less noticeable.

Will ghost tattoo lines go away? (photo)

Answers (6)

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