Tattoos have been used for ages as a means of artistic expression. But they aren’t always irreversible, and some people might decide to get their tattoos erased. Even though tattoo removal technology has improved over time, some people are still worried about keloids and other potential side effects. In this post, we’ll examine if getting rid of a tattoo can lead to keloids and other pertinent issues.
Raised scars called keloids develop when the body makes too much collagen when mending an injury. They can be brought on by a variety of things, such as piercings, surgery, and skin trauma. Keloids can be more frequent in some people, such as those with darker skin tones, although they can happen to anyone.
There is a chance that keloid formation will occur after tattoo removal, particularly if the patient has a history of keloids or other elevated scars. However, this danger is minimal, and the majority of tattoo removal patients do not develop keloid scars. It’s vital to remember that non-surgical removal techniques like laser removal are less likely to cause keloids than surgical removal techniques like excision. Speaking of laser removal, it is now one of the best ways to get rid of tattoos. By dissolving the ink particles in the skin, laser removal enables the body to naturally flush them out. Laser tattoo removal is usually regarded as safe and successful, even if it may require multiple sessions to entirely remove a tattoo.
Following laser removal, it is typically advised to wait at least six months before obtaining a new tattoo. This promotes complete skin healing and lowers the chance of problems like infection or scars.
Finally, there are kits for at-home laser tattoo removal on the market. Although these might appear like a practical and affordable choice, they are not advised. The FDA does not regulate home kits, and improper use of them can result in significant damage. They can even result in scarring or keloid formation and are less effective than laser removal performed by an expert.
The danger of keloid formation from tattoo removal is, however, relatively minimal and can be reduced by opting for non-surgical procedures like laser removal. It’s also crucial to avoid using home removal kits and to wait a while after removal before getting a new tattoo. As usual, it is best to seek advice from a qualified practitioner before getting any tattoos removed.
Answer bonus: There is no proof that Angelina Jolie has ever had a tattoo removed.