The standard modern removal procedure, which fragments the tattoo ink pigments with a series of laser pulses, usually takes between one to 10 different sessions to produce results.Typically the removal area will retain a slight to moderate shadow of the tattoo for an indeterminable amount of time (a few weeks to a couple of years), until the ink completely breaks down and disappears. It is widely considered the most effective tattoo removal option.
Surgical excision removal, in which a doctor literally cuts out the entire tattoo from the skin and applies stitches to the area, carries the largest risk of infection and complications. Excision may leave scarring, depending on the size of the removal area. For large tattoos, skin transplants may have to be performed.
For the dermabrasion method, the skin is sanded down to the level containing the tattoo ink, occasionally even into the inner layers. Scarring is frequent with this procedure as is residual ink of varying amounts and vividness.
Both salabrasion and scarification methods leave the most noticeable post-procedure scarring. Salabrasion's scars are due to a saltwater solution applied to the area to dissolve the tattoo ink, whereas scarification's are from an acid solution. Neither method is commonly or professional used for tattoo removal.
Removal creams have the lowest success and safety rates and carry some risk of allergic reactions. They are, however, a low cost option for those who cannot afford the more expensive methods such as laser removal. The topical creams desirably bleach the skin on and around the tattoo, but do not come with any serious guarantees of effectiveness.