Tattoo Removal

Nigro Dermatology Group

Cosmetic and Medical Dermatology located in Houston, TX

Do you have a tattoo you regret? If so, you're not alone. Each year, millions of Americans start the process of tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal is one of the most effective ways of getting rid of unwanted ink, and it's a service Nigro Dermatology Group offers at its two Houston, Texas, locations. The team has over two decades of experience helping make tattoos almost, if not entirely, invisible. If you want to erase your body art, call the practice or request an appointment online.

Memorial location: 832-289-8777 River Oaks location: 713-294-1224

Tattoo Removal Q & A

How does tattoo removal work?

Laser tattoo removal delivers intense pulses of light to the tattoo. The light energy heats the pigment (or ink), causing it to break down and dissolve over time. Black tattoos are easiest to treat, as the black pigment absorbs all laser wavelengths. If your tattoo is colored, your provider may need to use different wavelengths to treat each pigment color.

You need several appointments split over several weeks or even months. The team at Nigro Dermatology Group first assesses your tattoo and then discusses the process with you to set your expectations. You may not achieve complete tattoo removal, but it will be much less noticeable.

What can I expect from a tattoo removal treatment?

Your provider starts by applying a local anesthetic to numb the tattooed skin, which can take 20-60 minutes. They then apply the laser directly to the skin to test how it reacts. This process is to identify the most appropriate wavelength for the best chance of success.

Once set, they target the tattooed area with the laser. The precision of the laser means only the tattoo pigment absorbs the light. You wear protective glasses throughout your session.

The treatment is uncomfortable, and you will need to apply an ice pack immediately afterward. It's normal for your skin to blister, swell, or even bleed after each session.

While everyone's experience is different, on average, it takes about 6-8 sessions to remove a tattoo, and you should leave 6-8 weeks between each session to allow the skin to heal. Your tattoo gradually becomes lighter each time.

How should I care for my skin following a tattoo removal treatment?

Post-tattoo removal care is essential to preventing infection and excessive scarring. The team at Nigro Dermatology Group provides you with complete aftercare instructions for you to follow between sessions.

For the first few days after each session, you should apply antibacterial ointment and change the dressing each time you apply. For the next two weeks, you also need to do the following:

Avoid wearing tight clothing
Wear plenty of sunscreen
Avoid direct sunlight
Leave scabs or blisters alone
Keep the treated area dry and clean

If you no longer want your tattoo, you can do something about it. Call the team at Nigro Dermatology Group to discuss tattoo removal or request an appointment through the website.

What we offer