Myth #1 : One Type of Laser Can Remove all Tattoos
Do you believe the myth that there is one laser that is “best” for tattoo removal? This is false. We find that multiple laser wavelengths are needed for a safe and complete removal. Usually taking 2 or more lasers. Don’t believe the hype—from anyone—who says they have one laser that can remove all tattoo colors.
At LeBeau Clinic, we have the most advanced, state of the art laser for
tattoo removal which offers full color removal. LeBeau Clinic uses the Astanza Duality and Eternity Lasers, which is a combination of a q-switched Nd:YAG (1064nm & 532nm) and a Ruby (694nm) laser, creating 3 wavelengths that makes it able to treat all colors of tattoos effectively. These wavelengths are as follows:
1064nm blacks, browns, and some purples
532nm reds, oranges, some purples, and helps to fade yellows
694nm blue, greens, purples, and tough blacks
Myth #2 : Tattoo Removal is More Painful Than Getting a Tattoo
I am sure everyone has heard this statement. This myth is what keeps people from trying the procedure. For smaller tattoos, a local anesthetic can used to numb the site (eyebrows & ring finger tattoos, etc). Larger to medium tattoos can have a topical numbing agent applied before treatment. Also, a
dermal cooler, a device that keeps the skin cool during the treatment really helps out. At LeBeau Clinic we use the Zimmer Cryo which blows freezing cold air on the skin to numb it before and during laser treatments. If you are having a lot of pain during a laser treatment, let your health care professional know. They can take safe measures to help you lessen the pain.
Myth #3 : Tattoo Removal Causes Scarring
It is a common fear and belief that laser tattoo removal will scar you for life. As with any medical procedure, there is risk and benefit. On average, the probability of scarring is around 5% from laser treatment. That figure can be decreased by the client being very careful to follow the aftercare instructions from the health-care provider. Not all clients are suitable for laser treatment. Risks for tanned skin, darker skin tone, history of keloiding, pregnancy, Accutane medication, immune system disorders, some body locations, and other medications and disease processes.
After your tattoo removal treatment at LeBeau Clinic, we will cover the area and go over detailed aftercare instructions. We will ask the client to keep the area covered for 3 days post treatment, changing the bandage 2-3 times a day. Some may experience side effects such as redness, tenderness, swelling, bruising, blisters, and scabs. These are normal and should be left alone as much as possible to now cause texture change or scarring of the tattoo. Clients should cover the area for 3 days using Neosporin, Aquaphor, or similar.
Some clients with darker skin tones (skin types III-VI on Fitzpatrick scale) may have slight skin color change as part of the tattoo removal called hypopigmentation (skin gets lighter) or hyperpigmentation (skin gets darker) in the area of the tattoo. In the great majority of cases, this skin tone change is transient and can be alleviated with sun exposure or skin lighteners if client desires. Time is the ultimate helper here.
Myth #4 : Tattoo Removal Creams vs. Laser Removal
So many people want to know if “removal creams” found on the internet will take off their tattoos. The short answer is “no.” When you get a tattoo, ink is placed deeply in the skin. Rubbing a cream on top will not achieve removal of a tattoo. If this method worked there would be no need for lasers. Nor would the laser manufacturers spend millions of dollars for research, development, and marketing if a simple magic cream could do the job. If there were a product like this that removed tattoos easily, it would be on every shelf in every drug store in America. The cliché is true—if it sounds to good to be true it probably is.
If you would like to schedule a consultation for laser tattoo removal contact us at info@lebeauclinic.com or 850-308-1738. Evening and weekend appointments available.
