Tattoo Removal Reddit: The Complete Guide
Insights from Reddit communities, expert opinions, and scientific explanations on how to effectively remove unwanted tattoos.
Understanding Tattoo Removal
Tattoos, once considered permanent art on the skin, can now be removed or significantly faded with advanced technologies and procedures. As tattoos have become more mainstream, so has the demand for removal options when the art no longer suits the canvas.
According to insights gathered from Reddit communities and professional sources, approximately 25% of people with tattoos experience some form of regret. The reasons vary widely — from poor quality work, changes in personal taste, or life circumstances that make a once-meaningful tattoo no longer appropriate.
This comprehensive guide draws from the collective wisdom of Reddit communities like r/TattooRemoval, which boasts over 37,000 members sharing their personal journeys, combined with expert medical opinions and scientific research to provide you with everything you need to know about the tattoo removal process.
Quick Facts
- Complete removal typically takes 2-3 years with multiple sessions
- Laser removal is considered the most effective method
- Black and dark blue inks are easiest to remove
- Green and yellow inks are the most difficult to remove
- Average cost per session ranges from $200-$500
- Sessions are typically spaced 8-12 weeks apart
The Science Behind Tattoo Removal
Video explaining the science of tattoo removal
Why Tattoos Are Permanent
Tattoos last for decades because the ink particles are too large for your body’s immune system to remove. When a tattoo artist applies ink, it penetrates the epidermis (outer layer) and deposits in the dermis (second layer) of your skin.
Breaking Down The Ink
Laser tattoo removal works by delivering concentrated light energy that breaks down those large ink particles into smaller fragments. These tiny fragments can then be processed and eliminated by your body’s natural immune response.
The Elimination Process
Once broken down by the laser, the smaller ink particles are transported to your liver and eventually eliminated through your digestive system. This process happens gradually over weeks between treatment sessions, which is why multiple sessions are required for complete removal.
Reddit Community Insights
Real experiences and advice from the r/TattooRemoval community
USEFUL INFO FOR ANYONE CONSIDERING/GOING THROUGH REMOVAL
Key insights from this comprehensive post:
- The technician matters more than the laser – Look for practitioners with extensive before/after galleries of their own work.
- Wait longer between sessions – 8-12 weeks minimum is recommended, with better results from waiting longer.
- Removery using Enlighten lasers showed faster and better results than other options.
- Exercise and hydration significantly improve removal results by enhancing lymphatic flow.
- Don’t rush into coverups if you hate a tattoo – this often makes the situation worse.
“ANY TECH WHO TELLS YOU TO COME IN AFTER ONE MONTH IS SCAMMING AND ENDANGERING YOU – LEAVE IMMEDIATELY.”
Before/After Pics
“My laser journey on two of my tattoos is now complete. I thought I would share some before/after pics for encouragement to others. I had 9 sessions over a 16 month period at Removery.”
Key points from comments:
- The tattoos were 20-23 years old
- Used PicoWay laser at Removery
- No visible scarring was reported
- Older tattoos tend to respond better to removal
Warning About Cover-ups
“I got my first tattoo, immediately hated it and went for laser removal. Unwilling to wait for all the time that laser would require and oriented by most of the people around me to get a coverup instead of laser, I got a coverup and ONLY GOD KNOWS THE SADNESS I’M PASSING THROUGH, the coverup is worse than the tattoo and now I have a bigger problem to solve.”
This experience reinforces a common warning in the tattoo removal community: don’t rush into coverups when you hate a tattoo, as it often compounds the problem.
Session Spacing Debate
“I have an excellent laser tech, who is a plastic surgeon specialized in tattoo removal, and he advised me to come in 4 weeks after the first and second appointment. Since then we are spacing them 3-4 months apart, slowly making intervals longer until the end.”
This provides a counterpoint to the strict 8-12 week minimum spacing advice, suggesting that credentialed professionals may have different approaches based on individual cases.
Mental Health Impact
“I’ve had six sessions, and I’d wager that I need about five more, despite the fact that my initial estimate was six to eight sessions.”
“I went into a deep depression, cried a lot and even considered suicide, but fortunately found a good tech that uses PicoSure.”
Many Reddit users emphasize how tattoo regret can significantly impact mental health, and the importance of finding emotional support during the often lengthy removal process.
Reddit Community Demographics & Insights
Common Motivations for Removal
Most Discussed Concerns
Pain & Discomfort
How painful the process is compared to getting tattooed
Cost Concerns
Total expense over multiple sessions
Time Commitment
Length of complete removal process
Scarring
Potential for permanent skin damage
Effectiveness
Complete removal vs. fading results
Tattoo Removal Methods
Compare different approaches to finding the best option for your needs
Laser Tattoo Removal
Laser tattoo removal is the gold standard and most commonly used method by healthcare professionals. It uses high-intensity light beams to break down ink particles into smaller fragments that can be processed and eliminated by your body’s immune system.
How It Works:
Different types of lasers target specific ink colors. Q-switched lasers and newer picosecond lasers (like PicoSure and PicoWay) deliver ultra-short pulses of energy that shatter ink particles without excessive heat damage to surrounding tissue.
Pros:
- Most effective method with proven results
- Can target specific colors
- Minimally invasive
- Lower risk of scarring than other methods
- Can treat larger tattoos
Cons:
- Requires multiple sessions (typically 6-12)
- Expensive ($200-500 per session)
- Painful (described as rubber band snapping)
- Complete removal not guaranteed
- Some colors (green, yellow) are more difficult to remove
Reddit’s Preferred Lasers
- Cutera Enlighten
- PicoWay
- PicoSure
- Q-switched Nd:YAG
Surgical Tattoo Removal
Surgical tattoo removal involves cutting out the tattooed skin and stitching the remaining skin back together. This technique is called excision and is generally only suitable for small tattoos.
How It Works:
During the procedure, the skin is numbed with a local anesthetic. The tattooed skin is removed with a scalpel, and the edges of skin are stitched back together. The procedure is performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Pros:
- Complete and immediate removal in one session
- Effective for small tattoos
- No concerns about ink colors
- Often less expensive than multiple laser sessions for small tattoos
Cons:
- Guaranteed scarring
- Only suitable for small tattoos
- Invasive procedure with longer recovery time
- Risk of infection
- May require skin grafts for larger removals
From Reddit:
“The fastest way is surgical excision and depending on the size of the tattoo and location will determine if it is possible.”
Surgical excision is often considered by those who need quick results for small tattoos, but the scarring trade-off must be carefully weighed.
Candidate Assessment
Good candidates for surgical removal:
- Small tattoos (less than 2 inches)
- Areas with loose skin
- Those who need immediate removal
- Those who can accept a linear scar
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion involves removing the top layers of skin using a high-speed rotary device that has an abrasive wheel or brush. This “sands down” the skin to reach the layers where tattoo ink resides.
How It Works:
The area is typically chilled until numb. The tattooed skin is then sanded down to deeper levels, allowing the tattoo ink to leach out of the skin. The area feels sore and raw for several days after the procedure, with recovery taking up to two to three weeks.
Pros:
- Can be less expensive than laser treatment
- May be effective for superficial tattoos
- Faster initial results than laser in some cases
Cons:
- High risk of scarring
- Significant pain during recovery
- Unpredictable results
- Less effective than laser or surgical removal
- Risk of infection and skin discoloration
- Not recommended by most dermatologists
Warning from Mayo Clinic:
“Due to unpredictable results and less effective outcomes than laser or a combination of laser and excision, dermabrasion isn’t a common choice.”
The Mayo Clinic and most medical professionals don’t recommend dermabrasion as a primary tattoo removal method due to its inconsistent results and high scarring risk.
Reddit Mentions
Very few Reddit users report positive experiences with dermabrasion. Most discussions warn against this method due to scarring and recommend laser treatment instead.
Chemical Methods
Chemical tattoo removal includes professional TCA (Trichloroacetic acid) peels and various tattoo removal creams that claim to fade or remove tattoos.
How It Works:
TCA peels burn off top layers of skin to reach the dermis where tattoo ink resides. Over-the-counter creams typically contain chemicals that attempt to bleach or exfoliate the skin.
Pros:
- TCA peels may help fade some superficial tattoos
- Lower initial cost than professional treatments
- Can be done at home (creams only)
Cons:
- Generally ineffective for complete removal
- High risk of scarring, burns, and skin damage
- OTC creams not FDA approved for tattoo removal
- May cause allergic reactions or infections
- Can make future laser removal more difficult
FDA Warning:
“The FDA has not approved tattoo removal ointments and creams or do-it-yourself tattoo removal kits. These products may cause skin rashes, burns, or scars.”
The FDA explicitly warns against using tattoo removal creams, citing no evidence of effectiveness and significant safety concerns.
Reddit Consensus
The r/TattooRemoval community strongly advises against chemical methods. One post states: “Any tips for home tattoo removal? – DON’T. Just don’t. Save your money and your skin.”
Home Remedies (Not Recommended)
Various home remedies claim to remove tattoos, including salabrasion (scrubbing with salt), lemon juice applications, and DIY chemical peels.
How They Supposedly Work:
These methods claim to work by abrading or bleaching the skin to reach tattoo ink or by supposedly drawing the ink out through various substances.
Why They’re Not Recommended:
- No scientific evidence of effectiveness
- High risk of infection
- Can cause permanent scarring
- May cause chemical burns and skin damage
- Can make professional removal more difficult later
- Waste of time and may delay proper treatment
Medical Warning:
“Don’t attempt tattoo removal on your own. Do-it-yourself tattoo removal creams and other home treatments aren’t likely to be effective and can cause skin irritation or other reactions.” – Mayo Clinic
From Reddit:
“Same way you get rid of any tattoo, you have 3 options: 1-laser removal, 2-remove skin with knife, or some kind of ghastly grinding/sanding method, 3-cover it up with another tattoo. That’s it. No creams, no home remedies.”
The Laser Tattoo Removal Process
What to expect when getting a tattoo removed with lasers
Consultation
The first step is meeting with a qualified practitioner to assess your tattoo and develop a removal plan.
What to expect:
- Evaluation of tattoo size, color, location, and age
- Medical history review and skin assessment
- Discussion of realistic expectations and timeline
- Cost estimate and payment options
- Opportunity to ask questions
“Make sure to find a technician with ONLY good reviews who can show you pictures of their OWN work and NOT photos from laser companies.” – Reddit user
Preparation
Several precautions should be taken before your first treatment.
Pre-treatment instructions:
- Avoid sun exposure for at least 4 weeks before treatment
- Do not use self-tanners or tanning beds
- Stop taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications 3-7 days before (if approved by your doctor)
- Avoid alcohol 24 hours before treatment
- Come to the appointment with clean skin (no lotions, makeup, etc.)
- Shave the area 1-2 days before treatment (if applicable)
“Once you know you’re unhappy with a tattoo on your body, immediately start using a zinc oxide sunscreen on it. The most common reason people can’t get lasered is because their tattoo has had sun exposure.” – Tattoo removal specialist
Treatment Session
The actual laser procedure is quick but can be uncomfortable.
During the session:
- The area will be cleaned and prepared
- Eye protection will be provided for both you and the technician
- Numbing options may include topical cream, ice/cooling, or local anesthetic
- The laser will deliver pulses of light to the tattooed area
- Sensation described as “rubber band snapping” or “bacon grease splattering”
- Treatment time varies by size (typically 5-30 minutes)
- Immediate cooling/icing after treatment
“The process of removal is, in my opinion, easier than getting a tattoo because, though it is quite painful, it is extremely quick.” – Reddit user
Immediate Aftercare
Proper care during the first 48 hours is critical for healing and results.
First 48 hours:
- Apply ice for 5-10 minutes each hour to reduce swelling
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Apply antibiotic ointment or healing moisturizer as directed
- Keep the area bandaged if advised
- Elevate the area if possible to minimize swelling
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) if needed for discomfort
- Avoid sun exposure completely
- Do not pick, scratch, or rub the treated area
“Aftercare is EXTREMELY important. Abroad, they told me to get the antibiotic ointment Levomecol from the pharmacy and put it on 4 times a day until the tattoos are healed.” – Reddit user
Healing Phase
The weeks following treatment involve specific care instructions to optimize results.
Days 3-14:
- Blisters and scabbing are normal – do not pop blisters or pick at scabs
- Apply healing ointment like Aquaphor 3 times daily
- Keep the area clean by gently washing with mild soap and water
- Avoid soaking in water (pools, hot tubs, baths) until fully healed
- No exercise or activities causing excessive sweating for 24-48 hours
- Wear loose clothing that won’t rub against the area
- Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen once healed and avoid direct sun exposure
“You’ll need things like Aquaphor, bandages, and even clothes that don’t rest on your tattoo. Yes, I actually bought shirts that didn’t have material where my neck/back tattoo is.” – Laser removal patient
Between-Sessions Care
What to do during the 8-12 weeks between treatments to maximize fading.
For best results:
- Stay hydrated (8+ glasses of water daily)
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation and lymphatic flow
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
- Eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants
- Consider lymphatic massage of the area (consult your technician first)
- Continue using sunscreen on the area daily
- Be patient – most fading happens 4-8 weeks after treatment
“I have also noticed that the most successful removals on the sub are done on those who exercise frequently. So, EXERCISE, drink lots of water, eat healthily, and QUIT SMOKING.” – Reddit user
Repeat Sessions
Understanding the full treatment cycle and timeline.
The complete process:
- Average of 8-12 sessions for complete removal
- Sessions spaced 8-12 weeks apart (minimum)
- Total timeline of 2-3 years for full removal
- Progress is gradual – patience is essential
- Photos taken at each session to document progress
- Technician may adjust laser settings based on progress
- Final sessions may focus on stubborn spots
“THE MORE YOU WAIT BETWEEN SESSIONS, THE BETTER. If you go once a month for four months, you will not only 1) probably damage your skin but 2) get the same results if you had just gone for one session and waited four months.” – Reddit user
Cost Analysis
Understanding the financial commitment of tattoo removal
Price Factors
The cost of tattoo removal varies widely based on several factors:
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|
| Tattoo Size | Larger tattoos cost more per session |
| Ink Colors | Multi-colored tattoos may require different lasers |
| Ink Density | Heavily saturated tattoos need more sessions |
| Tattoo Location | Areas with better circulation fade faster |
| Facility Type | Medical offices usually charge more than med spas |
| Geographic Location | Higher costs in metropolitan areas |
| Laser Technology | Advanced lasers (PicoSure, PicoWay) cost more |
Reddit Cost Reports
Based on numerous Reddit discussions, users report these average costs:
- Small tattoo (1-2 inches): $100-$250 per session
- Medium tattoo (3-6 inches): $200-$400 per session
- Large tattoo (6+ inches): $300-$600+ per session
- Full sleeve removal: $1,000+ per session
“I’ve had six sessions, and I’d wager that I need about five more, despite the fact that my initial estimate was six to eight sessions. It takes a long time to complete because each time the tattoo is lasered, particles are broken down and digested by the body’s immune system.”
Payment Options
Most clinics offer various payment plans to make tattoo removal more affordable:
Package Deals
Pre-paying for multiple sessions typically offers 10-20% savings compared to paying per session. Reddit users recommend negotiating package deals with guarantees.
Monthly Memberships
Some providers (like Removery) offer subscription models where you pay monthly for unlimited treatments until completion.
Financing Options
Many clinics offer CareCredit, Affirm, or in-house financing with payment plans over 6-24 months.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance typically doesn’t cover cosmetic tattoo removal, but may cover removal related to allergic reactions or medical complications.
Cost-Saving Tips from Reddit
- Shop around and compare prices from multiple providers
- Ask about new client specials or promotions
- Consider teaching hospitals where procedures may cost less
- Look for Groupon deals (but always research the provider)
- Ask if the clinic offers free touch-ups for stubborn spots
- Consider partial removal if you plan to get a cover-up tattoo
Timeline & Expected Results
Understanding the long-term tattoo removal journey
Initial Consultation
Assessment of tattoo characteristics, medical history, and development of treatment plan.
First Session
First laser treatment. Expect immediate whitening of the skin (frosting), followed by redness, swelling, and possibly blistering within hours.
1-2 Weeks Post-Treatment
Healing phase with possible blistering, scabbing, and peeling. The skin begins to recover, and the area might appear darker as ink particles start breaking down.
4-8 Weeks Post-Treatment
Most significant fading period as your body’s immune system processes and removes the broken-down ink particles. You’ll start to notice visible fading.
8-12 Weeks: Second Session
Second treatment targeting remaining ink. Each session builds on the progress of previous treatments. Similar healing process follows.
6 Months (3-4 Sessions)
Noticeable fading, typically 30-50% removal depending on tattoo characteristics. Black ink shows the most significant improvement.
1 Year (5-6 Sessions)
Substantial fading with 50-75% removal. Lighter colors may begin showing significant improvement as darker inks clear.
2 Years (8-10 Sessions)
Most tattoos show 75-95% fading. Some may be completely removed at this stage, while others may have trace amounts of ink remaining.
2-3 Years (10-12+ Sessions)
Complete or near-complete removal for most tattoos. Some stubborn inks or areas may require additional targeted sessions.
Factors Affecting Your Timeline
Accelerating Factors
- Regular Exercise: Reddit users consistently report faster fading with regular cardiovascular exercise that increases circulation.
- Proper Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps flush broken-down ink particles from your system.
- Good Circulation: Tattoos on areas with better blood flow (trunk, upper arms) tend to fade faster than extremities.
- Advanced Lasers: PicoSure and PicoWay technologies often show faster results than older Q-switched lasers.
- Older Tattoos: Tattoos that have been on the skin for 5+ years often respond better to treatment.
- Amateur Tattoos: Hand-poked or non-professional tattoos typically require fewer sessions.
Delaying Factors
- Smoking: Significantly slows the removal process by restricting blood flow and impairing immune function.
- Colored Inks: Green, yellow, and fluorescent colors are more resistant to removal.
- Scarred Tattoos: Ink in scar tissue is harder to break down and remove.
- Location: Tattoos on extremities (hands, feet, lower legs) take longer to fade.
- Skin Tone: Darker skin tones require specialized lasers and more conservative treatment to avoid pigmentation changes.
- Rushed Sessions: Not waiting the recommended 8-12 weeks between sessions can impede progress.
From Reddit: Setting Realistic Expectations
Many Reddit users emphasize the importance of patience and warn against expecting quick results. Those who report the best experiences are people who mentally prepared for a multi-year journey rather than expecting rapid transformations.
Emotional Journey & Mental Health
Understanding the psychological impact of tattoo removal
Motivations for Removal
Understanding the emotional reasons behind removal can help maintain perspective during the lengthy process:
- Changed Life Circumstances: Career changes, new relationships, or lifestyle shifts that make a tattoo no longer appropriate.
- Evolving Identity: Many seek removal as their personal identity and self-expression evolve over time.
- Closure: Removing tattoos associated with past trauma, relationships, or difficult life periods.
- Regret Over Quality: Removing poorly executed artwork or impulsive decisions.
- Professional Concerns: Addressing workplace limitations or perception issues.
Reddit’s Mental Health Advice
Coping Strategies from Reddit
- Practice self-compassion: Remember that tastes change and decisions made in the past don’t define your future.
- Join support communities: r/TattooRemoval and other online groups provide encouragement and understanding.
- Document your progress: Take regular photos to visualize the gradual changes that might be hard to notice day-to-day.
- Focus on the process, not the endpoint: Use the removal journey as motivation for other healthy habits like exercise and hydration.
- Consider professional help: If tattoo regret is causing severe distress, anxiety, or depression, speak with a mental health professional.
Dating & Relationships During Removal
Many Reddit users express concerns about dating during the removal process. The community consensus is clear:
“Anyone who deserves you will not give a single f*** about your tattoos. I used to have a boyfriend who said he didn’t like girls with tattoos, and he was the wrong guy for me.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your Tattoo Removal Journey?
Remember, successful tattoo removal requires patience, realistic expectations, and choosing the right professional for your needs.