Tattoo removal creams are the preferred solution to get rid of tattoos.
The usual alternatives (laser tattoo removal and surgery) are both painful and expensive.
Below you'll find some in-depth articles about the subject.
Tattoo removal creams are becoming an increasingly popular treatment versus the traditional options, that is, laser and surgery.
Not a surprise, since a topical tattoo removal cream can fade and, over time, erase unwanted tattoos for a fraction of the cost.
On the other hand, laser tattoo removal and surgery (either dermabrasion or skin grafting) are painful, both to your wallet and your skin,
and I seriously doubt any health insurance covers laser/surgery tattoo removal.
Often the pain associated with laser removal exceeds that of the tattoo application.
Another reason why creams are becoming so popular is, of course, that you don't need to set up appointments for the treatment sessions.
You just do it in the privacy of your home at your convenience.
Yet another reason is that the chance of producing scarring with creams is much less than with laser treatment.
A point of debate may be speed of action: Tattoo removal creams may take around 6 months to produce significant fading,
although some users report having good results within 3 months, while others need up to 18.
On the other hand, laser removal may be perceived as being a quick method, but in order to completely remove a tattoo
you need many sessions, with waits in between to allow your skin to heal, so all in all the process can last multiple months.
Both methods are not exclusive though. Some people use both: They use creams first to fade their tattoos, which reduces the
number (and cost) of laser sessions required afterwards.
Beside creams, laser and surgery, you may want to consider other options. Not strictly removal options,
but some people "get rid" of tattoos by wearing make-up daily, or covering them with other tattoos.
Tattoo Removal Creams Analyzed
If you're deciding about trying a tattoo removal cream instead of laser or surgery, here's a few points to bear in mind.
TCA lotions
TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) is a skin peeling agent present in some products.
Actually TCA products are mostly liquid, so "lotion" or "gel" might be a better word than "cream".
TCA works by burning off the top of the skin, which is somewhat risky to your health and skin:
You're more likely to get scars with a TCA product.
It's definitely reckless to use near the lips, eyes and other sensitive areas because it causes irritation.
Some experts have classified TCA as a poison by subcutaneous route.
TCA is only effective on white (Caucasian) skin, causing negative effects on Asian, black or brown skins.
TCA lotions deliver results faster than their non-TCA counterparts, but because of the risks it's advisable to use TCA products in the presence of a dermatologist.
Non-TCA creams
Tattoo removal creams contain skin peeling, bleaching and/or lightening agents. These creams fade and, over time, erase the tattoo by
pushing the injected inks to the surface.
Some creams come packed with a device to remove the upper layers of the skin (exfoliating pad) to aid in the process.
These treatments don't work as fast as TCA, but they're also less aggressive to your skin, and work with all skin types.
Watch out! Some creams contain hydroquinone, a product often found in skin care products, but which has been banned in the European Union and is also suspected of producing cancer.
Again, be patient, don't expect results overnight. Fading takes months if you choose the removal cream option.
