Amazing video. This made me think about how us, tattoo artists have a responsibility to talk to the client and make them understand how serious it is to get a tattoo. Sometimes they tell me "if I regret it, I'll just have it removed". Having watched some of your videos over the past couple of days, I'm glad I can inform my clients better now. We should not get every job that comes along. Many tattoo artists argue that this is not our problem, that we're just there to do the tattoo as asked, but I do feel the weight of responsibility in this.
Some people are ignorant and do not realise how time consuming a removal is. I've seen some removals in progress of large, dense tatoos. 3 years and multiple sessions in and the removal was only around 60% done.
@@Sanderus wow, that's a long time indeed. You're right, most people think that both the tattoo and the removal are easy, quick processes. They don't stop to think about it. Pure recklessness.
@@90skidwithaguitar Yeap, I was surprised myself. I got interested in the subject when by accident I saw a video of someone who wished to have a tatoo removed "before" and "after" a session. And there was barely any difference ... Actually after the session it looked worse . And also people have to keep in mind that a tatoo does not fade at the same pace, at some point you will have parts of completely clear skin, surrounded by faded bits and pieces of a tatoo - overall - let's say it does not look very aesthetic. Tatoo artists can make amazing things, there are tatoos which are genuinely works of art in my view. And I have utmost respect to those who at times save their would be customers from their own recklessness. I read an interview with one tatoo artist who said he declined tatooing when he noticed that the customer was hesitant if to have a tatoo made or not.
@@Sanderus that's absolutely important. I never sit down to tattoo a client if they're not 100% sure of what they want, if they want a tattoo at all. Take some time to think about it, ya know? Don't just get every work thrown your way.
@@90skidwithaguitar It's funny how people change their mind. have you heard of Cliff Raven? He hated the tattoo world, and opened up a used book store in the desert. He was one of THE pioneers of tattooing. Also had a Masters in Fine Art. He told me quote "you're a nice girl, you don't want a tattoo". RIP Cliff. I have a feeling the homophobia also played a part in his disgust with the tattoo world. Anyway, you sound like a good egg. Putting the clients needs ahead of your need is rare in any field.
I removed a very large thigh tattoo and it was the best thing I ever did! I have a video of the experience if anyone is interested. I had yellow and it is/was difficult to remove. I didn't get any bruising or odd coloring, just very slow to fade. I will say, tattoos and tattoo removal takes a toll on the immune system so it's important to take care of yourself during the process.
It cost a lot more too, to Laser off your Tattoos...for a small heart on my left hand only about 1-2 inches...they told me it would cost $1000...but I could pay in payments and break it up into 200$ payments...so really think about it when you get a Tattoo...Removal is WAY more expensive and the Ink filters through your kidneys !!!... So they have to do it Slowly over a long period of time so you don't get sick...and many sessions for big Tattoos.... I never got my little Heart removed but I plan on it in the future. I was really surprised about the pricing. 1000 $ !!! I couldn't believe it !!!
As a certified tattooer of about 12 years I can tell you no artist in their right mind would use an excessive amount of solid white ink in someone. Most of those are lighting filters done using their natural skin tone to make it appear like it’s as light as possible. Also, although red ink is the most highly allergic ink most people will feel it’s effects during the tattoo healing phase. Not everyone has an allergic reaction to red, in most cases it’s pretty rare.
I've had a weird reaction to red ink. My skin is raised but its not itchy. I've gotten injections of nontopical steroids and it makes em go down but they always come back. I wanted to laser it off but the red is pretty deep and now I'm scared of the allergies lol
I didn't know ths about red ink I got a red flower about 10 yrs ago it was deep and dark and the color is completely gone . So I'm guessing I was allergic and my body worked to get red of it
Why wouldn't you use a huge amount of solid white ink? White out a whole tattoo and then do another design on top, it's a really effective way of covering up tattoos, im surprised you wouldn't know that as a tattoo artist 🤷♂️
Ive had large black and coloured tattoos fully removed with no pain at all because I applied a numbing cream containing lidocaine 40-60 minutes before each tattoo removal session. My tattoos are 100% gone and my skin was not damaged at all and this was 3 years ago. As long as you only get a treatment every 6-8 weeks apart and no less then it will be fine. I felt no pain because of the numbing cream.
Marvelous video! It was great learning more about tattoos and tattoo removal! I never considered those factors before! I started my tattoo removal process about two months ago. Luckily, I’ve only ever gotten black tattoos out of fear of the issues that colored tattoos have.
I’m happy Iv only got black ink to remove even the women doing mine said that colours are a nightmare to remove I just had 25 on my chest with NO NUMBING and it was painful I was told to use some cream but I forgot to purchase it, so yeah I was dumb but my god getting this removed is the best decision I done. Some tattoos are awful and ruin a person self esteem. Again so thankful mine was only black
Man, all those all back pieces are absolute wonderful pieces of art. I appreciate you talking about them with respect of the skill and artistry. Have you ever removed a tattoo that size and detail before? I only ask because it seems that someone who would get that size and skill level of a piece would have dropped a lot of money and commitment to something that size.
Yes I have lasered extra large pieces and do not really appreciate doing that. It has to be done in sections, takes years and a lot of money. Most people simply want to change a piece of the tattoo or fade it for another. Even beautiful tattoos can become unwanted if the person no longer relates to that specific piece of arr
I have no idea what you’re talking about in here but I think you missed the point of this entire video. The point is trying to prevent somebody who has tattoos that statistically is going to respond, terribly to Laser therapy or be a health hazard if Laser off in large sections. It’s designed to inform and help people not make a mistake.
They instruct don't touch water for 72 hours first session. When I get my treatment each 9 weeks. I don't get in water for 72 hours. That has worked for me and I'll keep doing that. It has prevented me from getting any swelling or blisters.
I have a grey wash forearm half sleeve, the only tattoo on my body and only tattoo I will ever want to get, the story is I was feeling so much regret for this one part I literally added the day of getting it cause I just wanted to fill in this one empty space. The rest I had looked at for months photos on my phone and was 100% loving, but I was getting so much anxiety that I almost and I mean almost ended up lazing the entire thing, which I instantly would’ve regretted, so I ended up getting a partial part removed, the part that I stupidly got the same day without having time to process it and if I would’ve loved it which I certainly didn’t. And it’s been going great. It’s a slow process and looks patchy and faded, but it’s better than if I got the whole thing done. Man I would’ve been unhappy forever. Tattoo removal for smaller or partial tattoos especially grey wash is literally the easiest laser removal ever. Just takes a while. But we all make mistakes and at least now I can appreciate my tattoo a lot more as this part slowly fades until it’s gone
I'm lasering two full sleeve tattoos all black ink, lots of shading. I spread sessions out 30 days, and will have 14 sessions so almost two yrs worth. I stay fit, hydrated, and healthy.
One question doctor. Why don't you actually get involved in apropriate research on tattoo removal alternatives? It's the same old story. Laser removal is dangerous, byproducts, ink stuck in the system, you say it ruins lifes because of the aesthetics. Why is there not a single lab in the UK researching novel possibilities to get it done? Is it simply to difficult? Lack of funding? What is it that we're stuck with the same thing for 40 years, while they let frogs legs regrow by now? Just the money aspect?
A motorcycle hippy, that had been in prison, showed me and a bunch of us high-school boys, how to do tattoos with one sewing needle and wrapped with thread, for the outline, two needles, wrapped with thread for letters and three needles, wrapped with thread for shading, and using Black India Ink. We put our own tattoos on. I was 17 then. I'm in my seventies, now, and it's still like it was, back then. The Bible says we're NOT SUPPOSED TO DO THAT to our skin, so I'm looking at what it will take to get them off. They're all with the Black India Ink, but my DNR one, on my chest.
I'm on my 5th laser removal session for my butt cheek and my 3rd for the wings on my back. Both are just black linework, very basic, fortunately. The process has taken roughly 8 months, (8 weeks in between each session), and it HURTS. There is no relief during the lasering. No amount of Tylenol or numbing gel completely masks the pain. It feels like a hot dagger being dragged across my skin. And it's $200 per session, per tattoo. But it's working. Slowly but surely, it's working. It will take roughly another 10ish months, and at least 4-6 more sessions for each, but it's worth it. Little by little it's fading.
That type of tattoo you describe it’s a little difficult because the lines have a lot of Incan them as opposed to a tattoo that’s completely shaded in without an outline put hang in there it sounds like things are going in the right direction
As a tattoo artist friend of mine said: lay off the colours, avoid white like the plague, stick to black-and-grey or traditionals. Do your home work. Think before you ink. And if you insist on reds and yellows, consider starting with a small one in an unobtrusive place to check for allergies. That being said, I live in Europe and certain inks have been banned because of the higher incidence of allergic reactions. That doesn’t mean they aren’t around anymore. Some artists are still using them. Either because they buy them through an alternative circuit or because they still have them in their stash. And old ink… dangerous. Don’t go there.
I know, having no artistic ability myself I am amazed at some of the work in these tattoos. I chose these examples for the video but in the office I found that if someone no longer relates to the tattoo it docent matter how beautiful it may be. I recall one instance where a woman had a 3-D spider on her shoulder, it looked as if you could lift it off yet she now hated it and I had to laser it off.
I feel really lucky that I only ever got black ink. I remember being told that color falls out/ages the worst and I didn't want to spend thousands touching them up so the only ones I have are black. I just want to get the tiny ones on my foot and wrist off, mainly. The larger pieces on my upper arm and thigh don't bother me as much because they're usually covered and look prettier. The wrist and foot one just look trashy to me. Hope the removal process is easy enough.
Hello DR. Glad I came across your video. I just recently got my neck tattood & I absolutely hate how it came out. It’s quite big & on the right side of my neck. I am considering doing laser removal but first I would like to know if you would recommend it & if so what percentage do you think can be removed & in how many sessions? I will try to describe it as best I can so you can give me your best honest feedback. It’s a portrait tattoo made up of completely black & grey with no color whatsoever & mostly soft shading. Rarely any single needle (hard lines) done. I hope I am able to remove it asap. Hope to hear your response & thank you for your time Dr. Edit: also I am quite fair skinned. I Came across your other video where you mentioned skin tone of the patient.
All of that is great news! Light skin, a shaded black tattoo which normally has less ink then a full dark tattoo mean it’s highly likely you will be successful. Go to an expert in your community, someone with a reputation and things I believe will be favorable. I wouldn’t be suprised if it was all removed.
@@DrUndoTattoo That is excellent & relieving news to hear from someone of your expertise Dr. Messina. I’m glad I don’t have to live with this mistake. I will look into professionals in my area. I found one that seems reputable & saw that they use the pico laser. I hope I am able to remove most if not all. Thank you for your time Dr. God bless.
The after care is IMPORTANT i have fair skin also and a vibrant sacred heart tattoo on my throat i had removed(army) it will blister like a bad sunburn,keep it clean and you will be good,i have no scaring
@@DavidMatousek-po1gwthat is awesome! I just had my second session yesterday & I have slight blistering on some of the darker areas. May i ask what creams did you use for after care? I’ve just been applying Lubriderm (the blue one with no scent.)
Thanks for the info doc. I think I'm having a bit of a reaction with my old tattoo (10 year old) I get a bumpy tattoo, not too bad it goes away but I really wanted to have it removed. I'm glad I found this video to inform me of the risks... the truth is that tattoos are dumb and I regret getting mine. I wish I could get rid of it 😢
I’m having a half sleeve tattoo laser removed that is black and has oranges and red and a tiny bit of white. I have had four sessions so far. The white has turned black just like you said and where the reddish/ purple is my skin is raised like a scar. So I don’t know how to proceed.
My question is if you had colored ink that was then covered up later with black and decided to have it removed would the lasers remove the full tattoo or would it remove the black and leave the previous color behind
Can you please make a video on the saline injection and laser combo method? Doesn’t the ink lift to the surface and then scab off. Not leaving the immune system to deal with it?
Your right..I ordered a NEATCELL Picosecond Skin Laser pen (red) and wile it completely removed the black ink without scaring (went easy to not scar) ,,it didn't touch the red or yellows ..but not biggie cause I accomplished what I needed so I can get something I could live with....ohhh,being young and dumb!
Yes but rarely, If the ink has an oil in it or a metalic base it becomes hard to remove even black ink, The oil ones tend to look shiny almost as if baby oil was on them. The metallic I havent seen in several years but they would spark as I was lasering them.
I have tatoos that I want to go away... lol... I was young and broken in my 20s and got some stupid tats. The guy that did the tats passes away from a drug overdose. Everytime I look at my arms it just reminds me of a time I want to forget. But I think Im stuck with these... lol
good explanation. now i know more about laser and how to remove tats. even thou i have none. we need more real and licensed doctors on youtube like u. rather than doctor wanna bes who call themselves doctor.
What would you suggest to someone who already started lasering off a tattoo with red, white, and yellow ink? I didn’t know my tattoo had white ink in it until it oxidized. It’s a back tattoo about 5inches tall of a lioness with a combination of those colors. Surprisingly, apart from the slight oxidation, in 8 sessions it’s faded a lot. I bought a package of 10 sessions and spacing out the last two sessions further apart.
Keep using the YAG obthe oxidized white, it may come out and the 532 on the yellows, The yellows should frost when they laser them. If t stays bad unfortunately yo can consider a cover tattoo
I have been tattooing for 10 years, and I am pretty sure that first back piece tattoo doesn’t have that much white, apart for maybe mixing it in other color. What I mean it doesn’t have flat spaces filled with white. I think that an artist exaggerated with the photoshop so the persons skin color on those waves for example looks lighter(white) then it is. It is important to say that most of the inks on the lighter side of the palette has white in it, tho I don’t know if it means the same for laser tattoo removal.
Hello doctor! I've been considering laser removal for the red in my tattoo. Where the red is has caused the skin to raise, but it doesn't itch. I've gotten injections and they went down, but a bit of them keep coming back. Would you recommend even attempting the laser? I just hate these dang bumps!!! Thanks
They could represent allergy or a granuloma formation which is also an allergic reaction. If it’s small the safest thing is to surgically excise the area
I recently had a tattoo removal session (first on this tattoo, but I have had treatments on other tattoos previously) and developed cellulitis. The tattoo was on my tricep, and within 48 hours i had swelling from my shoulder to my hand. Do you have experience or advice on this? Thanks!
A few things, if the tattoo goes completely around the upper arm laser only 1/2 that day and the other half 3-4 days later. If the laser energy is to high there can be swelling as well. Finally consider allergy, if you developed hives or a rash you may want to leave this tattoo alone.
I have a question doctor, i have an autoimmune disease called ulcerative colitis and im on all kinds of immunosuppressive medications, is it safe for me to get my tattoo removed with laser? Will it effect me differently. is it totally safe or should i be worry. I'll be waiting for your reply doc because it's very important to me. Thank you
Hello, thank you for asking that question because I think it’s very important. Your immune system is suppressed because your mean system is attacking your colon so at the very least your tattoo removal will be slowed down due to the fact that the immune system is going to be suppressed however, my big concern with you for though it’s a rare event, what would happen if you wind up getting an infection. I would recommend you speak to whom ever is taking care of your order with moon disease and ask them if your response to a skin infection would be a normal one or would you be so immuno suppressed that that infection can become severe. My personal opinion would be to leave the Tattoo alone due to the fact that you have an auto immune disease that requires immunosuppressive therapy.
Ciao Dottor Messina !! Volevo dirti che sei molto simpatico 😁 and would like to know your thoughts on the r20 method where they do 4 passes in one setting. Is this really something that can speed up the removal Process?
Hello, the R20 isnt popular any longer, it didnt speed up the process and increased the risk of getting scars and pigment loss. You are better just lasering the tattoo once every 6-8 weeks.
So far, no studies could conclude that lasering. Tattoos increases the risk of getting a malignancy, especially a skin cancer. The concern was can it cause lymphoma. As far as skin cancers go, the ink doesn’t seem to cause skin cancer. However, if you developed a skin cancer, let’s say a malignant melanoma, which is usually a dark lesion you might not see it because it’s being drowned out by the tattoo ink, that’s always a concern.
I dont use any picosecond lasers at all. They were promoted as a laser that would cut the treatments in half but that does not happen plus its recommended the first 4-5 sessions should be treated with a traditional Q so I simply continue with the Q laser ( Lutronic Spectra or Sinon Ruby) from beginning to end.
I appreciate the information. I have a huge tattoo on my chest and it covers most of it and my left and right arms. It was a huge cover up. It's mostly red. I don't think I am allergic. Should I do a small piece first to see if I have any allergic reactions? Really scared now and I am a hypochondriac. Will give myself a panic attack over nothing. Not proud.... Thank you for your time.
It should be safe to do small pieces at a session. Whenever I have someone with a large red tattoo that they want either faded or removed provided there’s no evidence of allergy. It doesn’t swell. It doesn’t itch doesn’t look red and a laser off an area about the size of my entire hand Figure about the size of four credit cards, if laid out in a square do that let that settle down and do another area by not being in a rush will help get the tattoo off cleaner and really reduce the risk of you having any type of allergy to your red ink
Hi Doctor, I have a tattoo of a rose on my neck that's red brown green, and black. I have no allergy to the red. Are you saying that if I get the laser the allergy might come out then?
It’s possible put on a small red tattoo like that I would think the risk is very low most of the time people that have an allergy to their ink know it it itches its raised Sometimes it gets all red, so if you don’t have any problems like that, you should be able to laser that red ink off without any problem I laser a lot of red ink and I haven’t had that many allergies to be honest probably three in 15 years it’s huge very large areas of red. I worry about so I never do a large area of red in one session.
I have a new red line tattoo that is 5cm wide. I was thinking of removing it via picosure laser, but after hearing all about the allergies, I have become quite afraid. Is the allergy permanent? Can the antihistamines be taken throughout the duration of the laser treatment if the allergy is not bad? It is not filled in or anything. So many questions, and google is making me think I will die haha (please help)
Don’t be afraid. Severe allergic reactions are rare and that’s not a huge red tattoo. I wouldn’t worry about taking an antihistamine since you are not displaying allergies to the ink ( raised, itchy, hives). The picosure is good only if it has the 532 wavelengths, if not it won’t target red.
Hi! Hope you'll notice my comment. I have a medium sized (10-15cm) black tattoo on my thigh i want removed. Problem is, there's a great load of ink, it's deep black! I've seen some people removing full blackout tattoos and that gave me some hope, but should it ? Do you think it's possible to have it completely removed?
Yes it is possible but you have to be careful. First with alot of ink there will be added sessions, expect at least 10 and probably closer to 14. Second with alot of ink its easy to cause trauma so the laser energy has to be observed. Avoid bleeding, although some people bleed even at low levels. Finally wait at least 6 weeks between sessions even more if you desire. But large areas of black ink can be removed.
@DrUndoTattoo how do you know when it's a lot of ink? Is it just when the tattoo is very dark? I have a badge sized tattoo on my chest that is very dark that I would like to remove
You can laser off a large black tattoo. I just don’t recommend doing that in one session. For instance, I had a patient come in with a large bat that took up most of his back. You wouldn’t want to Laser every inch of it. It would be a lot of tissue trauma, and a lot of Inc. suddenly being exposed to the immune system increase in the risk of having an allergic reaction plus that could be a lot of healing required so it become really cumbersome on his daily living for a few days so you can do a large black tattoo, but I usually do it in sections
Hello doctor, i just wanna know that how many days we should wait to start the removal process? My tattoo is new and only black in colour. So i want to get it removed. Please help me .
Hello thanks for the informative video. I have a full sleeve on my left arm. I want to laser removal small pieces of it to redo them again. Hopefully everything goes well.
It should be fine, thats very common. Artists tend not to mind the difficult yellows and whites it takes a few sessions to lighten the blacks enough for the artist to be happy.
Hi Dr., I'm curious if laser removal can trigger autoimmune diseases, like Type 1 Diabetes, if you already carry the antibodies for it? I ask because my son is T1D since age 2 and I'm scared to possibly trigger something if I get it done. Thanks for your time!
As a T1D myself I understand your concern. I have not seen any studies linking lasers for tattoo removal to autoimmune conditions. People can be allergic to their ink and have allergic reactions due to a sudden massive load to the system but becoming diabetic isn’t something I gave read about.
@@DrUndoTattoo thanks so much for your response! From the research I've done it's a genetic predisposition (ie: having 1 or more of the 5 antibodies), coupled with an environmental trigger. Like vaccines, a broken arm, head injury, etc. Anything that causes an immune response. But you are right- I don't think the immune response from the ink would be enough to trigger anything.
It is true that people with tattoos end up with some of the substances in the ink going into the liver which is an organ of filtration. However, there is little data to show that the ink is harmful at this point. There are risks though with tattoos mostly being infectious , hepatitis from a contaminated ink or needle will harm the liver plus other viral illnesses. Its important to got quality work from a professional artist who is following the current guidelines in one ink one needle one client. Thanks for this question, it made me do some research
Amazing video. This made me think about how us, tattoo artists have a responsibility to talk to the client and make them understand how serious it is to get a tattoo. Sometimes they tell me "if I regret it, I'll just have it removed". Having watched some of your videos over the past couple of days, I'm glad I can inform my clients better now. We should not get every job that comes along. Many tattoo artists argue that this is not our problem, that we're just there to do the tattoo as asked, but I do feel the weight of responsibility in this.
Some people are ignorant and do not realise how time consuming a removal is. I've seen some removals in progress of large, dense tatoos. 3 years and multiple sessions in and the removal was only around 60% done.
@@Sanderus wow, that's a long time indeed. You're right, most people think that both the tattoo and the removal are easy, quick processes. They don't stop to think about it. Pure recklessness.
@@90skidwithaguitar Yeap, I was surprised myself. I got interested in the subject when by accident I saw a video of someone who wished to have a tatoo removed "before" and "after" a session. And there was barely any difference ... Actually after the session it looked worse . And also people have to keep in mind that a tatoo does not fade at the same pace, at some point you will have parts of completely clear skin, surrounded by faded bits and pieces of a tatoo - overall - let's say it does not look very aesthetic. Tatoo artists can make amazing things, there are tatoos which are genuinely works of art in my view. And I have utmost respect to those who at times save their would be customers from their own recklessness. I read an interview with one tatoo artist who said he declined tatooing when he noticed that the customer was hesitant if to have a tatoo made or not.
@@Sanderus that's absolutely important. I never sit down to tattoo a client if they're not 100% sure of what they want, if they want a tattoo at all. Take some time to think about it, ya know? Don't just get every work thrown your way.
@@90skidwithaguitar It's funny how people change their mind.
have you heard of Cliff Raven? He hated the tattoo world, and opened up a used book store in the desert.
He was one of THE pioneers of tattooing. Also had a Masters in Fine Art.
He told me quote "you're a nice girl, you don't want a tattoo".
RIP Cliff. I have a feeling the homophobia also played a part in his disgust with the tattoo world.
Anyway, you sound like a good egg. Putting the clients needs ahead of your need is rare in any field.
I removed a very large thigh tattoo and it was the best thing I ever did! I have a video of the experience if anyone is interested. I had yellow and it is/was difficult to remove. I didn't get any bruising or odd coloring, just very slow to fade. I will say, tattoos and tattoo removal takes a toll on the immune system so it's important to take care of yourself during the process.
I’d like to see it pls if u don’t mind I’ve got 6 & wanna remove 4 of them by laser removal!
Yes, on my page :)@@nikkiturnup1688
Wonder if hard on my already compromised liver?
I want to remove my back piece. It’s all color I would love to see your removal too
It cost a lot more too, to Laser off your Tattoos...for a small heart on my left hand only about 1-2 inches...they told me it would cost $1000...but I could pay in payments and break it up into 200$ payments...so really think about it when you get a Tattoo...Removal is WAY more expensive and the Ink filters through your kidneys !!!... So they have to do it Slowly over a long period of time so you don't get sick...and many sessions for big Tattoos.... I never got my little Heart removed but I plan on it in the future. I was really surprised about the pricing. 1000 $ !!! I couldn't believe it !!!
I have zero tattoos and yet, i found this video fascinating and loved the presentation.
Same. 😀
Ditto
Everyone with a tattoo should watch every second of this vid
You're in such a great business. You'll never run out of work, and get to help people.
Its amazing to me that tattoo shops don’t first check to see your bodies reactions to certain inks before 👌 a job.
Tattoo industry isn’t heavily regulated
As a certified tattooer of about 12 years I can tell you no artist in their right mind would use an excessive amount of solid white ink in someone. Most of those are lighting filters done using their natural skin tone to make it appear like it’s as light as possible. Also, although red ink is the most highly allergic ink most people will feel it’s effects during the tattoo healing phase. Not everyone has an allergic reaction to red, in most cases it’s pretty rare.
I've had a weird reaction to red ink. My skin is raised but its not itchy. I've gotten injections of nontopical steroids and it makes em go down but they always come back. I wanted to laser it off but the red is pretty deep and now I'm scared of the allergies lol
My red ink inflates and itches sometimes
I didn't know ths about red ink I got a red flower about 10 yrs ago it was deep and dark and the color is completely gone . So I'm guessing I was allergic and my body worked to get red of it
@@kristinalozano7891 "red of it" haha. Nice pun.
Why wouldn't you use a huge amount of solid white ink? White out a whole tattoo and then do another design on top, it's a really effective way of covering up tattoos, im surprised you wouldn't know that as a tattoo artist 🤷♂️
Ive had large black and coloured tattoos fully removed with no pain at all because I applied a numbing cream containing lidocaine 40-60 minutes before each tattoo removal session. My tattoos are 100% gone and my skin was not damaged at all and this was 3 years ago. As long as you only get a treatment every 6-8 weeks apart and no less then it will be fine. I felt no pain because of the numbing cream.
How big are were they and how bright were the colors cause I’m trying to get rid of a color sleeve
Is there a way we can see what you had? I have instant tattoo regret & I want it OFF
You didn't get any of those white spots that appear because the laser also took your skin color off?
Hey Mary! would you mind sharing what brand of numbing cream you used?
Can you tell us which numbing cream you used?
What an under-appreciated channel! I loved your little comedic skits!
I agree, me too! 😆
Sending this to my daughter before she does something that she would regret.
Thanks for letting us know about the various situations.👏💪
Marvelous video! It was great learning more about tattoos and tattoo removal! I never considered those factors before! I started my tattoo removal process about two months ago. Luckily, I’ve only ever gotten black tattoos out of fear of the issues that colored tattoos have.
I didn't think this video would be of this much quality.
Very good informative video! 👍🏻
Great material. Wishing more people would review these guidelines 'before' getting tattoos.
You gave out a lot of good info brother.. much appreciated. Thank you.
I work with lasers but nothing to do with medical. This was an excellent addition to my overall knowledge of the science of lasers.
Doctor, never in my life have I needed something so badly and not known it until I had received it. Thank you.
I’m happy Iv only got black ink to remove even the women doing mine said that colours are a nightmare to remove I just had 25 on my chest with NO NUMBING and it was painful I was told to use some cream but I forgot to purchase it, so yeah I was dumb but my god getting this removed is the best decision I done. Some tattoos are awful and ruin a person self esteem. Again so thankful mine was only black
How many sessions and total time did it take you to remove your black tattoo?
Mimes all black thank god! I just had my 1st session . Mines going pretty well so far
How many sessions until it started to fade almost completely?
@@lovingheiress8900 ive only hsd 3 so far . Mines faded massively
I have tattoos and I don’t plan on removing them. I’m here for info. Thank god I’m not allergic to any ink or dyes. M
Man, all those all back pieces are absolute wonderful pieces of art. I appreciate you talking about them with respect of the skill and artistry. Have you ever removed a tattoo that size and detail before? I only ask because it seems that someone who would get that size and skill level of a piece would have dropped a lot of money and commitment to something that size.
Yes I have lasered extra large pieces and do not really appreciate doing that. It has to be done in sections, takes years and a lot of money. Most people simply want to change a piece of the tattoo or fade it for another. Even beautiful tattoos can become unwanted if the person no longer relates to that specific piece of arr
I’ve had quite a lot of laser, all black no problems ever.
that's good. Black amazingly gives very few problems
@@Ktm-jas
Cost a lot more money to remove tattoos.
Came for fact-checking before writing fanfics, this guy is definitely your friend if you’re gonna cover medical complications
I have no idea what you’re talking about in here but I think you missed the point of this entire video. The point is trying to prevent somebody who has tattoos that statistically is going to respond, terribly to Laser therapy or be a health hazard if Laser off in large sections. It’s designed to inform and help people not make a mistake.
Hurts a lot more coming off than it did going on
I had some removed with the dry needle technique. Painful, but quite effective.
They instruct don't touch water for 72 hours first session. When I get my treatment each 9 weeks. I don't get in water for 72 hours. That has worked for me and I'll keep doing that. It has prevented me from getting any swelling or blisters.
i'm very lucky that i hate colour tattoos, so if i ever want or need to get one of mine removed the only problems will be money and patience
Thumbs up for your efforts of comedic moments
I have a grey wash forearm half sleeve, the only tattoo on my body and only tattoo I will ever want to get, the story is I was feeling so much regret for this one part I literally added the day of getting it cause I just wanted to fill in this one empty space. The rest I had looked at for months photos on my phone and was 100% loving, but I was getting so much anxiety that I almost and I mean almost ended up lazing the entire thing, which I instantly would’ve regretted, so I ended up getting a partial part removed, the part that I stupidly got the same day without having time to process it and if I would’ve loved it which I certainly didn’t. And it’s been going great. It’s a slow process and looks patchy and faded, but it’s better than if I got the whole thing done. Man I would’ve been unhappy forever. Tattoo removal for smaller or partial tattoos especially grey wash is literally the easiest laser removal ever. Just takes a while. But we all make mistakes and at least now I can appreciate my tattoo a lot more as this part slowly fades until it’s gone
I'm lasering two full sleeve tattoos all black ink, lots of shading. I spread sessions out 30 days, and will have 14 sessions so almost two yrs worth. I stay fit, hydrated, and healthy.
Yes but go out at least 6 weeks not one month. Your immune cells will take more ink out and better healing time
I would never remove my tattoos. Well, i was 33 when i started with my tattoos.
One question doctor. Why don't you actually get involved in apropriate research on tattoo removal alternatives? It's the same old story. Laser removal is dangerous, byproducts, ink stuck in the system, you say it ruins lifes because of the aesthetics. Why is there not a single lab in the UK researching novel possibilities to get it done? Is it simply to difficult? Lack of funding? What is it that we're stuck with the same thing for 40 years, while they let frogs legs regrow by now? Just the money aspect?
It would make more sense to invest in ink that has a life span and breaks down over time.
Thank you , Doctor, very informative and helpful video.👍
A motorcycle hippy, that had been in prison, showed me and a bunch of us high-school boys, how to do tattoos with one sewing needle and wrapped with thread, for the outline, two needles, wrapped with thread for letters and three needles, wrapped with thread for shading, and using Black India Ink. We put our own tattoos on. I was 17 then. I'm in my seventies, now, and it's still like it was, back then. The Bible says we're NOT SUPPOSED TO DO THAT to our skin, so I'm looking at what it will take to get them off. They're all with the Black India Ink, but my DNR one, on my chest.
Sir,...are you the long lost brother of Paul Mc. Cartney???
Another Good video Dr.
Your channel deserves more views.
You explain everything well detailed
Thank you.
I'm on my 5th laser removal session for my butt cheek and my 3rd for the wings on my back. Both are just black linework, very basic, fortunately. The process has taken roughly 8 months, (8 weeks in between each session), and it HURTS. There is no relief during the lasering. No amount of Tylenol or numbing gel completely masks the pain. It feels like a hot dagger being dragged across my skin. And it's $200 per session, per tattoo. But it's working. Slowly but surely, it's working. It will take roughly another 10ish months, and at least 4-6 more sessions for each, but it's worth it. Little by little it's fading.
That type of tattoo you describe it’s a little difficult because the lines have a lot of Incan them as opposed to a tattoo that’s completely shaded in without an outline put hang in there it sounds like things are going in the right direction
@@DrUndoTattoo wish it would go faster. But it’s slowly making progress
I love your video, doctor! I never knew removing tats was so complex, I thought it was just painful & expensive 😅🎉
Great, well that's me screwed. I have one of those massive Irezumi tattoos with every colour. I'll wait until technology improves.
Thanks Doc, I needed this.
Wow this is so interesting, thank you for sharing your knowledge!
I just got back from my session. My tattoos on my face have been removing just fine especially the red ink🎉
your videos are always super instructive
I appreciate that!
You are so great ❤ thanks for sharing so much knowledge 😊
My pleasure 😊
Great that you explain it to people and in the way that everybody will understand 💚☺️
Been away from the east coast too long. Thanks for the accent!!
My pleasure or should I say my plasha
As a tattoo artist friend of mine said: lay off the colours, avoid white like the plague, stick to black-and-grey or traditionals. Do your home work. Think before you ink. And if you insist on reds and yellows, consider starting with a small one in an unobtrusive place to check for allergies.
That being said, I live in Europe and certain inks have been banned because of the higher incidence of allergic reactions. That doesn’t mean they aren’t around anymore. Some artists are still using them. Either because they buy them through an alternative circuit or because they still have them in their stash. And old ink… dangerous. Don’t go there.
OMG!! LORENZO IS ABSOLUTELY 💯 GORGEOUS ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I love him a black white Havaneese
Those were some amazing tattoos… works of art!
I know, having no artistic ability myself I am amazed at some of the work in these tattoos. I chose these examples for the video but in the office I found that if someone no longer relates to the tattoo it docent matter how beautiful it may be. I recall one instance where a woman had a 3-D spider on her shoulder, it looked as if you could lift it off yet she now hated it and I had to laser it off.
🎉🎉🎉 man I honestly love the smarts moments. Keep doing them. Please. ❤
I feel really lucky that I only ever got black ink. I remember being told that color falls out/ages the worst and I didn't want to spend thousands touching them up so the only ones I have are black. I just want to get the tiny ones on my foot and wrist off, mainly. The larger pieces on my upper arm and thigh don't bother me as much because they're usually covered and look prettier. The wrist and foot one just look trashy to me. Hope the removal process is easy enough.
Hello DR. Glad I came across your video. I just recently got my neck tattood & I absolutely hate how it came out. It’s quite big & on the right side of my neck. I am considering doing laser removal but first I would like to know if you would recommend it & if so what percentage do you think can be removed & in how many sessions? I will try to describe it as best I can so you can give me your best honest feedback. It’s a portrait tattoo made up of completely black & grey with no color whatsoever & mostly soft shading. Rarely any single needle (hard lines) done. I hope I am able to remove it asap. Hope to hear your response & thank you for your time Dr.
Edit: also I am quite fair skinned. I Came across your other video where you mentioned skin tone of the patient.
All of that is great news! Light skin, a shaded black tattoo which normally has less ink then a full dark tattoo mean it’s highly likely you will be successful. Go to an expert in your community, someone with a reputation and things I believe will be favorable. I wouldn’t be suprised if it was all removed.
@@DrUndoTattoo That is excellent & relieving news to hear from someone of your expertise Dr. Messina. I’m glad I don’t have to live with this mistake. I will look into professionals in my area. I found one that seems reputable & saw that they use the pico laser. I hope I am able to remove most if not all. Thank you for your time Dr. God bless.
@@lewischacon6009how it's going?
The after care is IMPORTANT i have fair skin also and a vibrant sacred heart tattoo on my throat i had removed(army) it will blister like a bad sunburn,keep it clean and you will be good,i have no scaring
@@DavidMatousek-po1gwthat is awesome! I just had my second session yesterday & I have slight blistering on some of the darker areas. May i ask what creams did you use for after care? I’ve just been applying Lubriderm (the blue one with no scent.)
Thanks for the info doc. I think I'm having a bit of a reaction with my old tattoo (10 year old) I get a bumpy tattoo, not too bad it goes away but I really wanted to have it removed. I'm glad I found this video to inform me of the risks... the truth is that tattoos are dumb and I regret getting mine. I wish I could get rid of it 😢
Wonderful
Presentation 👍🏻
Thank you for the video doc! Very informative and you are so funny! Love it
Thank you !
I’m having a half sleeve tattoo laser removed that is black and has oranges and red and a tiny bit of white. I have had four sessions so far. The white has turned black just like you said and where the reddish/ purple is my skin is raised like a scar. So I don’t know how to proceed.
Oh no this depresses me.. I have a visible red and yellow tat and a sleeve with lots of bold ink load, absolute regret
My question is if you had colored ink that was then covered up later with black and decided to have it removed would the lasers remove the full tattoo or would it remove the black and leave the previous color behind
Amazingly the outer black would come off expose the first tattoo then you would adjust the laser to target those colors.
Fantastic video. I don’t even have tattoos but I’m fascinated with this stuff. Also your accent is straight outta Suffolk or Nassau if I had to guess!
Brooklyn to age 10 then Suffolk to age 66
@@DrUndoTattoo love it! You have great videos on here
Can you please make a video on the saline injection and laser combo method? Doesn’t the ink lift to the surface and then scab off. Not leaving the immune system to deal with it?
This was really helpful
This was very informative. I am less concerned about the process now. I guess because mine are small. Thank you
Amazing vídeo. Thank you
Your right..I ordered a NEATCELL Picosecond Skin Laser pen (red) and wile it completely removed the black ink without scaring (went easy to not scar) ,,it didn't touch the red or yellows ..but not biggie cause I accomplished what I needed so I can get something I could live with....ohhh,being young and dumb!
My white ink disappeared on tan skin that I have lol.
Thank you so much, doctor.
You are very funny! Thank you for this videos. Did you ever experienced a black tattoo impossible to remove?
Yes but rarely, If the ink has an oil in it or a metalic base it becomes hard to remove even black ink, The oil ones tend to look shiny almost as if baby oil was on them. The metallic I havent seen in several years but they would spark as I was lasering them.
So don't worry most of the time black comes out just fine,
I have tatoos that I want to go away... lol... I was young and broken in my 20s and got some stupid tats. The guy that did the tats passes away from a drug overdose. Everytime I look at my arms it just reminds me of a time I want to forget. But I think Im stuck with these... lol
Very informative thank you.
good explanation. now i know more about laser and how to remove tats. even thou i have none. we need more real and licensed doctors on youtube like u. rather than doctor wanna bes who call themselves doctor.
I thank god I all black ink…
Very informative, I’m using a pico laser in my black and purple ink
What would you suggest to someone who already started lasering off a tattoo with red, white, and yellow ink? I didn’t know my tattoo had white ink in it until it oxidized. It’s a back tattoo about 5inches tall of a lioness with a combination of those colors. Surprisingly, apart from the slight oxidation, in 8 sessions it’s faded a lot. I bought a package of 10 sessions and spacing out the last two sessions further apart.
Keep using the YAG obthe oxidized white, it may come out and the 532 on the yellows, The yellows should frost when they laser them. If t stays bad unfortunately yo can consider a cover tattoo
@@DrUndoTattoo thank you!!!
@@krystaldee22 update this.
How much did you paid for the package of 10 sessions?
Professional saline removal is also an option for white (and all other colors of) tattoo ink fading /removal.
Great explanation! Thanks
I have been tattooing for 10 years, and I am pretty sure that first back piece tattoo doesn’t have that much white, apart for maybe mixing it in other color. What I mean it doesn’t have flat spaces filled with white. I think that an artist exaggerated with the photoshop so the persons skin color on those waves for example looks lighter(white) then it is. It is important to say that most of the inks on the lighter side of the palette has white in it, tho I don’t know if it means the same for laser tattoo removal.
Thank you for the info!!
Any time!
Good info!!
Hello doctor! I've been considering laser removal for the red in my tattoo. Where the red is has caused the skin to raise, but it doesn't itch. I've gotten injections and they went down, but a bit of them keep coming back. Would you recommend even attempting the laser? I just hate these dang bumps!!! Thanks
They could represent allergy or a granuloma formation which is also an allergic reaction. If it’s small the safest thing is to surgically excise the area
Any removal creams you’d recommend?
Not really. They would have to reach the dermis. Some acid based products do but leave a horrible scar or at least major skin changes
I recently had a tattoo removal session (first on this tattoo, but I have had treatments on other tattoos previously) and developed cellulitis. The tattoo was on my tricep, and within 48 hours i had swelling from my shoulder to my hand. Do you have experience or advice on this? Thanks!
A few things, if the tattoo goes completely around the upper arm laser only 1/2 that day and the other half 3-4 days later. If the laser energy is to high there can be swelling as well. Finally consider allergy, if you developed hives or a rash you may want to leave this tattoo alone.
I have a question doctor, i have an autoimmune disease called ulcerative colitis and im on all kinds of immunosuppressive medications, is it safe for me to get my tattoo removed with laser? Will it effect me differently. is it totally safe or should i be worry. I'll be waiting for your reply doc because it's very important to me. Thank you
Hello, thank you for asking that question because I think it’s very important. Your immune system is suppressed because your mean system is attacking your colon so at the very least your tattoo removal will be slowed down due to the fact that the immune system is going to be suppressed however, my big concern with you for though it’s a rare event, what would happen if you wind up getting an infection. I would recommend you speak to whom ever is taking care of your order with moon disease and ask them if your response to a skin infection would be a normal one or would you be so immuno suppressed that that infection can become severe. My personal opinion would be to leave the Tattoo alone due to the fact that you have an auto immune disease that requires immunosuppressive therapy.
No
Ciao Dottor Messina !! Volevo dirti che sei molto simpatico 😁 and would like to know your thoughts on the r20 method where they do 4 passes in one setting. Is this really something that can speed up the removal
Process?
Hello, the R20 isnt popular any longer, it didnt speed up the process and increased the risk of getting scars and pigment loss. You are better just lasering the tattoo once every 6-8 weeks.
Hi, what about the risk of (skin)cancer as your skin gets lasered and the inkt will get removed via your immune system?
So far, no studies could conclude that lasering. Tattoos increases the risk of getting a malignancy, especially a skin cancer. The concern was can it cause lymphoma. As far as skin cancers go, the ink doesn’t seem to cause skin cancer. However, if you developed a skin cancer, let’s say a malignant melanoma, which is usually a dark lesion you might not see it because it’s being drowned out by the tattoo ink, that’s always a concern.
@@DrUndoTattoo Thank you very much for your quick and informative answer.
I like these other sites that won't show the end results ...because that is what they do
Is the PiQo4 laser the one you use? If not, what is the difference between what you use and this laser?
I dont use any picosecond lasers at all. They were promoted as a laser that would cut the treatments in half but that does not happen plus its recommended the first 4-5 sessions should be treated with a traditional Q so I simply continue with the Q laser ( Lutronic Spectra or Sinon Ruby) from beginning to end.
Thanks Doc!
I appreciate the information. I have a huge tattoo on my chest and it covers most of it and my left and right arms. It was a huge cover up. It's mostly red. I don't think I am allergic. Should I do a small piece first to see if I have any allergic reactions? Really scared now and I am a hypochondriac. Will give myself a panic attack over nothing. Not proud.... Thank you for your time.
It should be safe to do small pieces at a session. Whenever I have someone with a large red tattoo that they want either faded or removed provided there’s no evidence of allergy. It doesn’t swell. It doesn’t itch doesn’t look red and a laser off an area about the size of my entire hand Figure about the size of four credit cards, if laid out in a square do that let that settle down and do another area by not being in a rush will help get the tattoo off cleaner and really reduce the risk of you having any type of allergy to your red ink
Hey doc, could i send a picture of my tattoo and the likelihood of back to normal skin?
What if you would tattoo black all over the tattoo and then laser it? Or use the opposite color afterwards to hide the remaining red or yellow?
It would only take the black off and the other colors below would reappear.
Mine are just on my forearms, just black and a little bit of red
So if you got a tattoo using mostly black then you should be fine if you get it removed
Yes
Hi Doctor, I have a tattoo of a rose on my neck that's red brown green, and black. I have no allergy to the red. Are you saying that if I get the laser the allergy might come out then?
It’s possible put on a small red tattoo like that I would think the risk is very low most of the time people that have an allergy to their ink know it it itches its raised Sometimes it gets all red, so if you don’t have any problems like that, you should be able to laser that red ink off without any problem I laser a lot of red ink and I haven’t had that many allergies to be honest probably three in 15 years it’s huge very large areas of red. I worry about so I never do a large area of red in one session.
my white ink just dissappeared
Thats great ! White often loses color just from UV light. We just cant tell for sure what its going to do after the laser hits it.
Disappear after laser?
I have a new red line tattoo that is 5cm wide. I was thinking of removing it via picosure laser, but after hearing all about the allergies, I have become quite afraid. Is the allergy permanent? Can the antihistamines be taken throughout the duration of the laser treatment if the allergy is not bad? It is not filled in or anything. So many questions, and google is making me think I will die haha (please help)
Don’t be afraid. Severe allergic reactions are rare and that’s not a huge red tattoo. I wouldn’t worry about taking an antihistamine since you are not displaying allergies to the ink ( raised, itchy, hives). The picosure is good only if it has the 532 wavelengths, if not it won’t target red.
Hi! Hope you'll notice my comment.
I have a medium sized (10-15cm) black tattoo on my thigh i want removed. Problem is, there's a great load of ink, it's deep black! I've seen some people removing full blackout tattoos and that gave me some hope, but should it ? Do you think it's possible to have it completely removed?
Yes it is possible but you have to be careful. First with alot of ink there will be added sessions, expect at least 10 and probably closer to 14. Second with alot of ink its easy to cause trauma so the laser energy has to be observed. Avoid bleeding, although some people bleed even at low levels. Finally wait at least 6 weeks between sessions even more if you desire. But large areas of black ink can be removed.
@DrUndoTattoo how do you know when it's a lot of ink? Is it just when the tattoo is very dark? I have a badge sized tattoo on my chest that is very dark that I would like to remove
ALL THOSE TATTOOS LOOK NICE AS HELL
I agree. I only used them to point out problem areas for ink removal
what about tattoos with only large black parts?
You can laser off a large black tattoo. I just don’t recommend doing that in one session. For instance, I had a patient come in with a large bat that took up most of his back. You wouldn’t want to Laser every inch of it. It would be a lot of tissue trauma, and a lot of Inc. suddenly being exposed to the immune system increase in the risk of having an allergic reaction plus that could be a lot of healing required so it become really cumbersome on his daily living for a few days so you can do a large black tattoo, but I usually do it in sections
Hello doctor, i just wanna know that how many days we should wait to start the removal process? My tattoo is new and only black in colour. So i want to get it removed. Please help me .
Wait a minimum of 1 month for the fresh ink to settle and all skin healed.
vinny boombatz lol great video wattts a matterr for youu keep them coming
Hello thanks for the informative video. I have a full sleeve on my left arm. I want to laser removal small pieces of it to redo them again. Hopefully everything goes well.
It should be fine, thats very common. Artists tend not to mind the difficult yellows and whites it takes a few sessions to lighten the blacks enough for the artist to be happy.
Hi Dr., I'm curious if laser removal can trigger autoimmune diseases, like Type 1 Diabetes, if you already carry the antibodies for it? I ask because my son is T1D since age 2 and I'm scared to possibly trigger something if I get it done. Thanks for your time!
As a T1D myself I understand your concern. I have not seen any studies linking lasers for tattoo removal to autoimmune conditions. People can be allergic to their ink and have allergic reactions due to a sudden massive load to the system but becoming diabetic isn’t something I gave read about.
@@DrUndoTattoo thanks so much for your response! From the research I've done it's a genetic predisposition (ie: having 1 or more of the 5 antibodies), coupled with an environmental trigger. Like vaccines, a broken arm, head injury, etc. Anything that causes an immune response. But you are right- I don't think the immune response from the ink would be enough to trigger anything.
I do tetst spots
Is it true that particles stay lodged in the liver even after removal? Sounds scary and cancerous to me
It is true that people with tattoos end up with some of the substances in the ink going into the liver which is an organ of filtration. However, there is little data to show that the ink is harmful at this point. There are risks though with tattoos mostly being infectious , hepatitis from a contaminated ink or needle will harm the liver plus other viral illnesses. Its important to got quality work from a professional artist who is following the current guidelines in one ink one needle one client. Thanks for this question, it made me do some research