TOP-5 Myths about Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser removal treatments are commonly performed procedures for fading unwanted tattoos in a safe and effective way. Because of its popularity, the online world is buzzing with false claims and myths regarding tattoo removal.

Should you get a laser treatment for your tattoos?

The problem with these myths is that they either scare people away or promote unrealistic expectations, which hinders candidates in finding an effective removal treatment for their “tattoo fails”.

Whatever your stand about laser treatments, make sure you are getting your information from a board-certified dermatologist on tattoo removal.

Now, let’s debunk the top 5 myths about laser removal once and for all.

FALSE. For years, countless topical products have graced the beauty industry with gargantuan promises or removing stretch marks, cellulite, and yes even tattoos.

However, there is still no miracle cream that can work as effectively as a laser treatment. It’s the same with cellulite and stretch marks, by the way, only clinical procedures can manage these common aesthetic maladies.

Creams aren’t effective because they can’t penetrate deep enough.

Tattoo inks are deposited into the deeper layer of the skin and removal creams must penetrate the epidermis to reach these globs of pigments.

But if your cream can reach the deeper layer of the skin, they probably contain hazardous chemicals. You’ll most likely suffer from skin irritation and allergies if you go this route.

Myth #2 – Laser can easily erase any tattoos

FALSE. Again, there is no magic treatment for removing tattoos. Lasers are no exception. The process is not simple and complete removal may take months or years.

How do lasers remove tattoos? Lasers work by destroying pigment molecules into tiny pieces, which are then absorbed in the bloodstream through our bodies’ natural immune response.
Not all tattoos can be completely removed. It depends on the ink color, the type of laser used, where the tattoo is located, and how well your body responds to the treatment.

Myth #3 – Scarring is common after laser removal treatments

POSSIBLE, BUT UNLIKELY. Getting scars from a laser tattoo removal is rare in the hands of an experienced and highly-trained medical provider. Modern laser machines are also more sophisticated–thanks to rigorous testing in clinical trials.

However, poor aftercare may lead to scarring, as well as previous scars during inking that was masked by the tattoo.

When the tattoo fades, the scars are now more noticeable and some would think the laser removal caused it.

To prevent getting scars, be diligent with your aftercare. Watch out for adverse effects and skin changes. Most importantly, follow your provider’s instructions to a tee.

Myth #4 – You need a board-certified dermatologist for tattoo removal

TRUE. As with all cosmetic treatments, you should only give your trust to professionals, who spent years learning about anatomy, physiology, the effects of light-based treatments, and how to manage potential complications.

Anyone can buy a laser machine and set up an aesthetic clinic, but the success of every treatment lies mainly in the medical professional who will perform the procedure.

Make sure that your provider has appropriate training and certifications, including a level 4 Core of Knowledge certificate from the laser manufacturer.

Myth #5 – A tattoo removal process is extremely painful

FALSE. To be honest, the path to laser tattoo removal is not paved with flowers. There may be painful sensations, but not as intense as getting a tattoo.

Your practitioner can give you an anesthetic agent (lidocaine) to numb the area so that the process would not be too uncomfortable.

The laser removal process is also considerably shorter than getting a tattoo, thus you won’t be in pain for long.

To imagine how a laser tattoo removal feels like–think of a rubber band snapping against your skin. It might be bothersome, but definitely not unbearable.

Other caveats…

While tattoo removal using lasers has been proven safe and highly effective, not everyone is a good candidate for treatment. Just as it is easier to correct pigmentations among light-skinned individuals, they are also good candidates for laser tattoo removal.

Lasers typically target pigment in the dye, but some lasers diffuse light energy in the surrounding skin and destroy pigment-producing skin cells called melanin.

People with darker skin have more melanin, which means using a laser to remove a tattoo in these patients can lead to hyperpigmentation and burns.

However, a highly skilled provider can pick the right laser wavelength for your skin color to prevent these side effects.

Latest News

Popular Tags

Categories

Varicose Veins and Spider Vein – Main Differences and Ways to Remove

Varicose veins and spider veins are blood vessel problems that are usually seen as twisted and swollen veins on the legs. Aside from the unsightly appearance, the treatment of varicose veins is necessary because it may lead to serious vein issues.

Can these blood vessel problems be treated?

Varicose is a form of varix (plural varices) that refers to a dilated vessel with a twisted or tortuous course. They can form in different parts of the body.

The ones that occur in the superficial veins of the legs are called varicose veins. If they form in the scrotum, they are called varicocele. The varicosities around the anus are known as hemorrhoids.

Available treatments for varicose veins include sclerotherapy, laser therapies, radiofrequency ablation, and vein surgery (ligation and stripping).

How about spider veins? Are they the same? Can both be treated with the same procedure? We are here to answer the most commonly-asked questions about spider veins and varicose veins, so continue reading below.

What are the main differences between varicose veins and spider veins?

Varicose veins and spider veins are both abnormally enlarged vessels, but the latter is considerably smaller and does not bulge out like varicose veins.

Spider veins, medically known as telangiectasia, are usually red and resemble the appearance of tree branches or spider webs. You may also form spider veins or thread veins on the face.

On the other hand, varicose veins can be red, bluish, or skin-colored. Larger varicosities make the skin bulge out due to the overfilling of pooled blood. The twisted, dilated veins may appear ropelike with or without concomitant pain.

However, if it starts to feel uncomfortable or if you notice other signs and symptoms, you need to have it checked by a specialist.

What causes varicose veins and spider veins?

The most common cause of varicose and spider veins is malfunctioning valves in the leg veins. Normally, our veins contain valves that control the flow of blood, ensuring that it runs in one direction.

Sometimes the valves get damaged, resulting in reverse flow of blood and pooling of blood in the legs. The increased pressure may weaken the walls of the vein, causing it to enlarge.

If you have varicose veins, you may also experience the following symptoms:

• Heavy and crampy legs
• A burning or throbbing sensation in the legs
• White, scar-like patches on the skin
• Dryness and itchiness over the skin of the affected vein
• Swelling at the ankles, especially at night

Factors that can increase your risk of having varicose veins and spider veins:

Both men and women may develop varicose veins, but women are more commonly affected than men. Your risk of developing these conditions may also increase if you:

• Have a family history of varicosities. The disorder runs in the family. More than half of women with varicose veins have a parent with the disorder.
• Have a sedentary lifestyle. Prolonged sitting or standing makes it harder for your veins to pump blood.
• Are pregnant. As your womb grows, it puts pressure on your veins. This weakens your blood vessels that may lead to enlarged veins.
• Are using hormonal contraceptives or hormone therapy (HT) for menopause. The female hormone estrogen can weaken the valves of the veins. Estrogen is often added to birth control methods and menopausal hormone therapy.
• Have an underlying medical condition that causes damage to valves. Weakness in the leg muscles can damage the valves, as well as blood clots and scarring.

Treatment of Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Painful ulcers, bleeding, and blood clots are some of the effects of varicose veins. Although not all varicose veins require treatment, it may lead to serious complications, particularly if the deeper leg veins are involved.

If the appearance of your varicose veins and spider veins bother you, or if they have accompanying symptoms, you need to consult a medical professional. They can come up with a treatment plan that suits you.
Varicose veins may be treated conservatively with the use of compression stockings, lifestyle modifications, topical gels, and anti-inflammatory medications. If these fail to alleviate symptoms, you may try non-surgical procedures that work well as surgery.

Minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins and spider veins:

Sclerotherapy – is the most common nonsurgical treatment for both spider veins and varicose veins. It involves the injection of a chemical solution (sclerosant) that shrinks veins, causing them to stick together until they seal shut and blood flow stops.

Over time, the vein will turn into scar tissue. Serious complications from sclerotherapy are not common, but they may include allergic reactions, swelling, and blood clots.

Laser therapy – a laser vein removal involves the use of light energy that selectively destroys abnormal veins. The process is quick and has a shorter recovery time. Laser treatment does not require needles or a sclerosing agent. However, not all patients will respond well to the procedure.

Is Vein Surgery Effective?

Surgical treatment for varicose veins includes ligation and stripping. The procedure takes about an hour or so and you are allowed to go home within the same day. The damaged veins are removed through a small incision in the skin.

The downside of the procedure is the long recovery period. Full recovery after ligation with stripping takes about 2-4 weeks. While vein surgery is a highly effective procedure, some patients reported recurrence after surgery.

Recurrence of varicose veins may happen if your condition is progressive. The closed vein may also recanalize (open again) or form new blood vessels while they are healing.

Latest News

Popular Tags

Categories