There is no limit to the reasons people have a change of heart about a tattoo and decide to either remove it or have it covered with something new. Even those who grow dissatisfied with a tattoo often still have a love of the artform, and therefore want to cover the old image with a different one.
The problem, however, is that there are sometimes roadblocks to such a strategy in that not every kind of tattoo is well-suited to a transformation of this sort, and not every artist has the skills to pull it off. Therefore, it can be wise to first seek laser tattoo removal or fading of the old tattoo before going in for the new. Even if the goal is not to eliminate the prior work entirely, but simply achieve some fading in advance of a cover tattoo, the end result is often far better than what would otherwise have been possible.
The first step in getting the desired outcome is to have a clear vision of what the new artwork should look like and how it might fit together with the old. Speak candidly with your tattoo professional about what you truly want. Once any areas that would benefit from fading are identified, the laser removal process can be initiated.
Is Laser Removal Truly Necessary?
When an old tattoo is characterized by especially dark ink, or there has been image bleed over time, it may well be best to have laser removal treatment performed in order to help the skin accept the new image more effectively. Otherwise, the new combination of tattoos may end up looking muddy or undefined.
How Much Time Will Be Required?
The time necessary to achieve the best results will depend on the size of the original tattoo and the type of pigments used. Large, dark tattoo images will tend to require additional removal sessions. But, since all that is being done is a bit of fading rather than full eradication. it will not take as long as it would to have the entire image removed. Bear in mind that a period of six to eight weeks is typically recommended between laser sessions, so this is important for planning purposes.
Is Laser Removal Painful?
Many laser removal patients have indicated that the sensation experienced during the process is comparable, or even somewhat less, than the discomfort of getting the original tattoo. It has been described as similar to the feeling of having a rubber band snapped against the skin. As such, it is not exactly pain-free, but it takes less time than sitting for a tattoo.
Is There Any Risk Involved?
It is always wise to seek guidance from a reputable laser removal technician in conjunction with the tattoo artist with whom you intend to work. These professionals will explain in detail how long the entire process should take, appropriate skin care techniques, what outcomes you can anticipate, and when you can begin acquiring your new artwork.
Is It All Worthwhile?
The answer in most cases, is an emphatic yes! Of course, if the old tattoo in question is very small and has already faded a great deal, you may have no problem going ahead and getting a large cover piece without prior laser removal work.
In order to boost the chances of full satisfaction with a new tattoo meant to cover an old one, it really does pay to spend the time necessary to get rid of as many remnants of the prior artwork as you can. Luckily, this really is easier and more convenient than ever before with Laser Tattoo Removal.