3 Ways To Remove A Tattoo - WikiHow Life

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Terms of UseHow to Get Rid of a Tattoo: Professional & Home Treatments How tat removal works and what factors to consider Co-authored by Grant Lubbock and Aly Rusciano

Last Updated: May 6, 2025 References

• Tattoo Removal Methods
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• Risks
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• Removal Effectiveness
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• Fading Tattoos at Home
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• Covering Up Tattoos
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• Expert Q&A
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• Warnings

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This article was co-authored by Grant Lubbock and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano. Grant Lubbock is a Tattoo Artist and Co-Owner of Red Baron Ink, a tattoo salon based in New York City. Grant has over 10 years of tattooing experience and he specializes in neo-traditional, black/grey, and color tattoos. Red Baron Ink's main goal is for each tattoo coming out of their studio to be one of a kind custom pieces that will look good throughout a lifetime. There are 15 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 1,406,804 times.

Thinking about removing a tattoo? There are 3 medically-approved ways to remove tattoos—laser removal, surgical removal, and dermabrasion—and luckily, it's very possible to fade your unwanted ink from your skin entirely. In this guide, we’ll share the ins and outs of each tattoo removal method, fill you in on the risks, and provide a few home remedies that may help you fade your ink in the meantime.

Things You Should Know

• Laser tattoo removal is the most common way to get rid of a tattoo of any size anywhere on the body and can be done by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
• Tattoo removal can cost anywhere between $200 and $2,000, depending on the tattoo's size, location, color, and age.
• While removing tattoos at home isn’t advised, some claim that using lemon juice or rubbing the skin with salt can help fade tattoo pigment.

Steps

Section 1 of 5:

Types of Tattoo Removal

1. 1 Laser removal Laser tattoo removal is typically the best option for most tattoos and is the most common. Before the procedure, a medical professional will numb your skin with a local anesthetic. Then, they'll direct lasers at your tattoo. The tattoo pigments absorb the energy from the laser and are broken down.[1]
   • Laser removal usually takes more than 1 session to remove the tattoo completely. In fact, it generally takes between 6 and 10 treatments (with healing time in between).
   • Multicolored tattoos might need extra treatment with multiple lasers of different wavelengths to fully dissolve the pigment.
   • While this procedure is safe, it can still cause scarring. You may have swelling, blisters, or bleeding immediately after the procedure. Your doctor will likely prescribe an antibiotic ointment you can apply to the area.[2]
   • Laser removal isn’t usually covered by insurance because it's considered an elective procedure.[3] On average, it costs around $423 per treatment, depending on the specialist.[4]
2. 2 Surgical removal Surgical tattoo removal works best on small tattoos and physically removes the skin with the tattoo from the body. With this procedure, a doctor will numb the skin with a local anesthetic and then use a scalpel to cut the tattoo out. The doctor finishes the removal by stitching the skin back together.[5]
   • This method is the most invasive and will leave a scar where the doctor stitches the skin up.
   • While this method can work with larger tattoos, a skin graft may be needed to complete the procedure. A skin graft is where the doctor takes a piece of skin from elsewhere on your body and applies it to the area where they remove the tattoo.
   • There are risks to getting a skin graft, including infection, rejection, and discoloration.
   • Typically, surgical tattoo removals can be between $200 and $2,000, depending on the tattoo location and size.
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3. 3 Dermabrasion With dermabrasion, a doctor will physically grind down and remove the top layer of skin with the tattoo.[6] The doctor will first numb the area by chilling it and then use a rotary tool with a sanding head to wear down the skin. Think of it like sanding down a piece of wood. They’ll continue “rubbing” until the dye leaches out of the skin, fading and removing the tattoo.[7]
   • This method typically isn't as effective as lasers or surgery. Still, it may be more cost-effective because it’s an outpatient procedure.
   • Usually, you only go in for a single treatment, which can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000, depending on the size, location, and age of the tattoo.
   • With this method, your skin will feel raw for a couple of days after the procedure, and you'll likely experience bleeding. It may take 2 to 3 weeks to heal completely.
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Section 2 of 5:

Are there risks to tattoo removal?

1. 1 Scarring, infection, and skin discoloration are likely after tattoo removal. The leading risk of tattoo removal is scarring, no matter what method you choose. While there’s a greater chance of getting a scar with surgical removal, there have been cases where people have scarred with laser or dermabrasion treatments. Along with this, there’s always the risk of getting an infection after the procedure and having lasting skin discoloration.[8]
   • It’s important to acknowledge the risks when determining if tattoo removal is right for you. Many who undergo removal say the pros of getting rid of the tattoo outweigh the risks.
2. 2 Complications are less likely when a professional removes the tattoo. Not just anyone can safely remove a tattoo. Your best and safest bet is to go with a licensed dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Do your research before scheduling a tattoo removal appointment. Make sure the doctor has experience in tattoo removal, and you understand what they specialize in specifically.[9]
   • When researching, call up the office. Ask the staff or doctor how many tattoo removals they've performed and if they own their own equipment. Those who do tend to have more experience.[10]
   • While some tattoo parlors offer laser tattoo removal, it's safest to go to a licensed medical professional.[11]
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Section 3 of 5:

Is tattoo removal effective?

1. The effectiveness of tattoo removal depends on a variety of factors. Your skin type and the size and color of your tattoo can affect the type of removal method you choose and the length of the treatment. Have a consultation with your dermatologist or plastic surgeon before scheduling your official removal to discuss the options available for you.[12]
   • Some laser procedures work better on certain colors of tattoos than others. For examples, dark blues and blacks tend to be the easiest shades to remove.[13]
   • Less professional tattoos may be more difficult to remove, as they tend to be scarred and/or applied unevenly.[14]

Section 4 of 5:

Using Home Remedies to Fade a Tattoo

1. 1 Apply a mixture of salt and lemon juice to your skin. Combine 7 US tbsp (119 g) of salt with a squeeze of lemon juice to form a thick paste. Dip a cotton pad into the mixture and apply it to the tattoo for at least 30 minutes. Then, rinse the area using warm water. Repeat daily to gently fade the appearance of a tattoo.[15]
   • Be aware that no scientific studies or evidence support this tattoo-fading method; however, lemon juice may help lighten skin pigment.[16]
   • Even so, there are still risks with this at-home remedy, as rubbing salt and lemon juice into the skin could cause irritation and/or pain.
2. 2 Put a mixture of aloe vera, salt, honey, and yogurt on the tattoo. Combine 2 US tbsp (30 mL) of aloe vera gel, 2 US tbsp (34 g) of salt, 2 US tbsp (30 mL) of honey, and 2 US tbsp (30 mL) of yogurt in a bowl. Apply the mixture to your tattoo and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. Gently wash it off with water, and repeat daily.[17]
   • Know that there is no proven evidence that this home remedy will help remove or fade your tattoo; however, it’s painless and could help moisturize your skin.
3. 3 Rub the area for 30 to 40 minutes with table salt. This process, known as salabrasion, is believed to help “sand down” or exfoliate your skin and fade tattoo pigment. Moisten a gauze sponge with water and dip it in salt. Then, rub the gauze along your tattoo in circular motions until the area turns dark red. After rubbing the area, rinse it well and apply an antibiotic ointment and cover it for at least 3 days.[18]
   • Be aware that this process is incredibly painful and can cause scarring and infection, so try it at your own risk.
   • Your skin will likely take on a leather appearance. After about a week, the top layers of skin will peel off, and the appearance of your tattoo may be reduced.
   • Wait at least 6 weeks for the skin to heal completely before trying the process again.
4. 4 Make a homemade tattoo removal cream with aloe and vitamin C. Mix together 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of aloe vera gel, 2 capsules of vitamin E, and 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of gel from Paederia Tomentosa leaves. Spread the mixture on your skin and leave it to soak in for 10 minutes. Then, rinse the tattoo with warm water. Repeat 4 times daily for at least 1 week for the best results.[19]
   • This DIY cream is painless and may help moisturize your skin.
   • Gel from Paederia Tomentosa leaves can be hard to come by, so this at-home remedy may not be accessible for everyone.
   • While there’s no scientific proof to back up this home remedy, aloe vera has been used as a natural tattoo removal agent for centuries.[20]
5. 5 Be wary of do-it-yourself chemical peels. Some websites sell chemical peels made of trichloroacetic acid. While chemical peels can be somewhat effective, do-it-yourself kits can be dangerous and cause chemical burns, infections, and allergic reactions. Always get a doctor’s opinion and do your research before buying a tattoo removal product online.[21] Advertisement

Section 5 of 5:

Covering Up Tattoos

1. If all else fails, cover your tattoo with makeup. Maybe you decide permanent tattoo removal isn’t for you or isn’t something you can afford right now. No matter the reason, know there are ways to conceal an unwanted tattoo. To cover your tattoo, dab on a foundation or concealer that matches your skin. Then, apply translucent setting powder. Put on another layer of foundation and another layer of setting powder to complete the effect. Blend the foundation into your skin at the edges.[22]
   • To help set the makeup, start with dry skin (no moisturizer), and apply a layer of extra hold hairspray or makeup setting spray at the end.
   • Try not to touch the area to help the coverage last.
   • Use a foundation or concealer with a bit of a pink or peach tone if you have fair skin or one with orange and yellow tones if you have darker skin.
   • Don’t have makeup handy? No worries! Try covering your tattoo without makeup by wearing concealing clothing or using adhesive tattoo covers.

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question Are there any home remedies to fade a tattoo? Grant Lubbock Tattoo Artist & Co-Owner, Red Baron Ink Grant Lubbock is a Tattoo Artist and Co-Owner of Red Baron Ink, a tattoo salon based in New York City. Grant has over 10 years of tattooing experience and he specializes in neo-traditional, black/grey, and color tattoos. Red Baron Ink's main goal is for each tattoo coming out of their studio to be one of a kind custom pieces that will look good throughout a lifetime. Grant Lubbock Tattoo Artist & Co-Owner, Red Baron Ink Expert Answer Generally, there are some over-the-counter balms that claim to help fade a tattoo, but there aren't any home remedies that will work. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 3
• Question Can you completely remove a tattoo? Grant Lubbock Tattoo Artist & Co-Owner, Red Baron Ink Grant Lubbock is a Tattoo Artist and Co-Owner of Red Baron Ink, a tattoo salon based in New York City. Grant has over 10 years of tattooing experience and he specializes in neo-traditional, black/grey, and color tattoos. Red Baron Ink's main goal is for each tattoo coming out of their studio to be one of a kind custom pieces that will look good throughout a lifetime. Grant Lubbock Tattoo Artist & Co-Owner, Red Baron Ink Expert Answer Yes, though it may take 4-10 sessions to completely remove your tattoo, depending on the pigmentation type and the colors used. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 5
• Question Who should I consult if I want to remove a tattoo? Grant Lubbock Tattoo Artist & Co-Owner, Red Baron Ink Grant Lubbock is a Tattoo Artist and Co-Owner of Red Baron Ink, a tattoo salon based in New York City. Grant has over 10 years of tattooing experience and he specializes in neo-traditional, black/grey, and color tattoos. Red Baron Ink's main goal is for each tattoo coming out of their studio to be one of a kind custom pieces that will look good throughout a lifetime. Grant Lubbock Tattoo Artist & Co-Owner, Red Baron Ink Expert Answer When you're considering tattoo removal, it's important to find a licensed laser technician who works with an overseeing doctor. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 4 Helpful 0

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Tips

• In the past, cryosurgery (a method of freezing off the skin with liquid nitrogen) was sometimes used for tattoo removal; however, it's rarely done anymore.[23] Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

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Warnings

• Avoid commercial tattoo removal creams. These aren’t approved by the Federal Drug Administration and may or may not work. In addition, because they're acid-based, they can sometimes cause bad skin reactions or rashes. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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References

1. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm336842.htm
2. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tattoo-removal/about/pac-20395105
3. ↑ https://www.asds.net/TattooRemovalInformation.aspx
4. ↑ https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/tattoo-removal/cost
5. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tattoo-removal/about/pac-20395105
6. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm336842.htm
7. ↑ https://www.asds.net/skin-experts/skin-treatments/dermabrasion/dermabrasion-for-unwanted-tattoos
8. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tattoo-removal/about/pac-20395105
9. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm336842.htm

More References (14)

10. ↑ https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-are-tattoos-removed/
11. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/cosmetic-treatments/tattoo-removal
12. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tattoo-removal/about/pac-20395105
13. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm336842.htm
14. ↑ https://www.asds.net/Skin-Experts/Skin-Conditions/Tattoo-Removal
15. ↑ https://manofmany.com/lifestyle/advice/how-to-remove-a-tattoo-you-regret
16. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7271691/
17. ↑ https://manofmany.com/lifestyle/advice/how-to-remove-a-tattoo-you-regret
18. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1455136/pdf/califmed00009-0044.pdf
19. ↑ https://manofmany.com/lifestyle/advice/how-to-remove-a-tattoo-you-regret
20. ↑ https://www.tattoovanishmethod.com/how-to-remove-a-tattoo-naturally/
21. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2847822/
22. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/beauty-trends/a24264/how-to-cover-a-tattoo-using-makeup/
23. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4411606/

About this article

Co-authored by: Grant Lubbock Tattoo Artist & Co-Owner, Red Baron Ink This article was co-authored by Grant Lubbock and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano. Grant Lubbock is a Tattoo Artist and Co-Owner of Red Baron Ink, a tattoo salon based in New York City. Grant has over 10 years of tattooing experience and he specializes in neo-traditional, black/grey, and color tattoos. Red Baron Ink's main goal is for each tattoo coming out of their studio to be one of a kind custom pieces that will look good throughout a lifetime. This article has been viewed 1,406,804 times. 3 votes - 93% Co-authors: 47 Updated: May 6, 2025 Views: 1,406,804 Article SummaryX

The best way to remove a tattoo is to see a dermatologist and ask about laser surgery removal. However, if you want to attempt to remove your tattoo at home, try rubbing the area with moist gauze and table salt for 30-40 minutes. Once you’re done, apply antibiotic ointment and cover the area for 3 days. In a week, the top layers of skin will peel off and the tattoo will fade. Just be wary of do-it-yourself chemical peel products, as they could cause chemical burns. To learn how surgical removal and dermabrasion work, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,406,804 times.

Reader Success Stories

• 

  Kumar Rajeev

  May 1, 2018

  "If problem's big, surgery, dermatologist, laser treatment and expensive medicine can't be undermined."

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Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Grant Lubbock Tattoo Artist & Co-Owner, Red Baron Ink Co-authors: 47 Updated: May 6, 2025 Views: 1,406,804 93% of readers found this article helpful. 3 votes - 93% Click a star to add your vote

Kumar Rajeev

May 1, 2018

"If problem's big, surgery, dermatologist, laser treatment and expensive medicine can't be undermined."

Anonymous

Nov 8, 2016

"I now have gotten rid of this tattoo on my leg, thanks to this."

Anonymous

Sep 10, 2016

"I have a tattoo in arm and I need to remove the tattoo."

Anonymous

Aug 7, 2016

"Surgical removal for tiny tattoos sounds the fastest."

Denislon Huyam

Aug 5, 2016

"It worked." More success stories Hide success stories

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