How to lighten a tattoo effectively? Laser removal is by far the best way to fade a tattoo. This is the quickest, safest, and most efficient removal process, says Cooper Ferreira, a Removery technician and experienced RN. “This is a process that utilizes your immune system to remove ink in a safe way,” he emphasizes.
To remove fresh tattoo ink from the skin, you can use a variety of methods. Some people use a mixture of water and salt, while others use a commercial tattoo removal product. You can also try using a Q-tip or cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol.
After 3-4 days, you do not want to be using ANY petroleum based substances like Vaseline or ANY ointment type products. It can clog the skins pores and cause ink to fall out of your tattoo from getting waterlogged.
Laser tattoo removal sessions are the safest, most efficient, and quickest option for complete removal of your unwanted tattoos.
Factors like sun exposure, skin elasticity, friction, improper aftercare, smoking, and tanning can accelerate tattoo fading. Natural methods like exfoliation and using lightening agents may help fade tattoos, but professional laser removal is the most reliable and safest option.
If you're interested in tattoo removal, consult a skin doctor (dermatologist) about the options. 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.
There are rumors that Aquaphor makes tattoos fade, but from our experiences and many others, this just isn't true. If a tattoo is done correctly and the ink is where it needs to be, ointment should only help your tattoo heal correctly.
The AAD also advises that using the wrong type of moisturizer can actually harm your tattoo. Avoid using petroleum jelly and other petroleum-based products to hydrate your tattoo, as these can cause ink fading. Instead, opt for a water-based moisturizing cream or lotion to keep your tattoo hydrated.
Your best bet is to begin daily applications of a mild skin-lightening agent like hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice. If you're looking for a faster, more direct approach, you could also try exfoliating the tattoo thoroughly 2-3 times a day with a homemade salt scrub or similar abrasive mixture.
Hydrogen peroxide
It is designed to work as a disinfectant but is moderately effective at fading superficial layers of ink. On its own, hydrogen peroxide is not potent enough to penetrate the second layer of skin. As a result, fresh tattoos or deeply embedded tattoos won't be phased by it.
Laser tattoo removal is likely the most commonly heard of tattoo removal method. Laser tattoo removal works by firing concentrated light at ink in a tattoo, which then breaks the tattoo into smaller pieces so your body can process the tattoo out over time.
Lemon, lavender, frankincense, helichrysum, and tea tree essential oils are the best options for fading tattoos. To use essential oils for fading tattoos, dilute the oil, use a carrier oil, and apply the mixture to the tattoo regularly.
Sun damage
You can't avoid the sun forever and you probably want to show off your artwork, but you can protect your skin and tattoo by using an SPF with a high UVA and keeping it covered in intense, direct sunlight. Anything that affects or damages your skin will make your tattoo fade quicker.
Why Vaseline and petroleum-based jelly aren't great for a new tattoo. Petroleum-based products can cause ink to fade and may trap moisture and bacteria on top of the tattoo, increasing your risk of developing an infection. Use water-based moisturizers on new tattoos instead.
When considering chemical tattoo removal solutions, several brands utilize acids and alkaline compounds to break down tattoo pigments. Notable examples include: PhiRemoval : Employs glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), to target tattoo ink. Tatt2Away : Utilizes lactic acid in its removal process.
Conclusion: While Vaseline and Aquaphor are commonly used for tattoo aftercare, they may not be the best choice for the healing process of your tattoo. Their occlusive nature can lead to clogged pores and hinder oxygenation, which can slow down healing and potentially lead to complications.
The Final Takeaway. Because of its moisturizing properties and vitamins that are good for your skin, coconut oil is ultimately more than safe to apply to your tattoo. It's a natural, inexpensive way to heal your tattoo and keep it looking healthy and vibrant for years to come.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Exfoliation - Exfoliation paired with hydrogen peroxide can do wonders to gradually fade tattoo ink naturally. This is because exfoliation removes dead skin while hydrogen peroxide is a skin lightening agent that has bleaching properties.