Tattoos can be a fun expression of self or a poignant way to treasure a memory, but in some cases, people come to hate a tattoo they once loved. If you have a tattoo that you regret, there are a few options to consider. Here’s what you should know:
Temporary Cover-Ups
If you no longer like your tattoo, but you aren’t completely sure you want to get rid of it, cover it temporarily. You can temporarily cover a tattoo with clothing, jewelry, or makeup, depending on its placement. Temporarily covering your tattoo will give you time to evaluate your options and make sure you are happy with your next decision.
If you still like tattoos and you are happy with the placement and size of your current tattoo, you may be able to get a tattoo artist to cover your old tattoo with new artwork. If you choose this option, it is crucial that you are absolutely sure about what you want. In general a cover-up tattoo will be larger than the original and it will be much harder, if not impossible, to remove it later.
If you are sure you want to get rid of your tattoo, laser tattoo removal is a good option. In general the treatment takes multiple sessions and is less painful that getting the tattoo in the first place. Some people also undergo a few laser tattoo removal sessions to fade a current tattoo so it is easier to cover it up with something new. The success of the procedure and the number of sessions required will vary depending on your skin and the age, color, and size of your tattoo.
In order to determine what you really want, ask yourself the following questions:
Once you’ve determined how you feel about your tattoo and what you want, schedule an appointment at the Advanced Laser & Skin Cancer Center to learn more about laser tattoo removal.
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