Tattoos are commonplace in today's culture. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nearly 25 percent of Americans report having at least one tattoo. However, as many as 17 percent of those want to have a tattoo removed. Despite their popularity, tattoos are, for some, a regrettable reminder of times past.

“Obviously, tattoos that include names of past love interests do not fade, even when the ‘old flame' flickers out,” said Dr. Joshua Fox, spokesman for the American Academy of Dermatology.

“On a more general basis, people who find tattoos adventurous in their teens and twenties often find that they send the wrong message about them as they move into a more mature stage of their lives, when marriage, family, children and work become the focal point.”

Fortunately for fickle tattoo lovers, laser technology has kept pace with the ever-increasing demand for tattoo removal. Still, there are a few things people should consider before opting for that permanent ink:

• Tattoo removal is a process that does not happen in one day. Depending on various circumstances, tattoo removal can take anywhere between five and 10 months.
• Some tattoos are easier to remove than others. For instance, tattoos on fair skin are more easily removed than those on darker skin tones. Also, certain inks—particularly yellow, purple, and orange—are more difficult and time-consuming to remove.
• The cost of tattoo removal varies but can run into the thousands, especially in cases where the tattoo covers a large area, is intricately detailed, and/or contains multiple pigments.

For those who want a less permanent tattoo option, new semi-permanent and temporary inks are the way to go.

Considering tattoo removal? Please contact us today to learn more about your options or to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.