Choosing A Tattoo Removal Method

This guide walks you through the most common tattoo removal methods so you can choose the safest, most effective option. There are creams, surgery, lasers, and even sanding methods, and each comes with its pros & cons. We explain what each option involves, what kind of results you can expect, and the safest option.

If you have more questions or need professional tattoo removal services in Mississauga, ON, call (905) 451-4545.

Laser Tattoo Removal (PicoSure)

Laser tattoo removal is one of the most trusted ways to fade or fully remove unwanted body art. A medical-grade device delivers concentrated light pulses that shatter ink particles into small fragments. Over the next few weeks, the body’s lymphatic system carries away the broken pigment.

At Alternative Laser Health, we use PicoSure, a device known for producing smaller ink particles, which clear more efficiently. Sessions are spaced at least four weeks apart to protect healing tissue and allow maximum fading between visits. We also do a small test

spot when helpful to confirm settings before treating the entire area.

Comfort Measures:

Before treatment, we can apply a numbing cream to make the process easier. During the session, pulses last only a fraction of a second, and we pause whenever needed. Right after the session, we use cooling methods and provide detailed aftercare so the area calms quickly.

Pros:

• Targets pigment precisely while protecting surrounding tissue.

• Lower risk of scarring compared to surgical removal methods.

• Suitable for most skin types, including darker tones when done by trained professionals.

• Gradual fading allows for progress photos and adjustments to settings as needed.

Cons:

• Multiple visits are required, usually five or more, depending on the tattoo size, colours, and depth.

• Cost accumulates over time, as each session is billed separately (we maintain a pay-as-you-go approach).

• Temporary redness, swelling, or frosting of the treated area is common but fades within days.

Tattoo Removal Cream vs Laser

Many people go for an easier solution and try tattoo removal creams. These topical products work on the outer layers of the skin, but the pigment from body art sits deeper in the dermis, where creams can’t reach. At best, they may lighten the surface slightly or cause peeling, but they won’t fully clear the ink.

There are also risks involved. Harsh ingredients in some creams can irritate the skin, cause redness, or leave uneven patches of lighter colour. Since results are unpredictable, you might spend months applying cream with little visible change.

In contrast, laser removal targets the pigment directly. With PicoSure, light pulses pass through the skin safely and break particles into fragments small enough for the body to clear. This approach offers measurable fading after each visit, progress tracking through photos, and expert aftercare to protect healing tissue.

Pros of Creams:

• Non-invasive and can be applied at home.

• Lower upfront cost compared to clinical sessions.

Cons of Creams:

• Cannot reach pigment deep in the dermis.

• Uneven results and risk of irritation or discolouration.

• May delay proper treatment, prolonging the overall process.

Surgical Removal or Excision

Surgical removal is a direct way to eliminate a tattoo by cutting out the tattooed skin and stitching the edges together. This procedure is done under local anesthetic, and it can completely clear a small design in one visit.

This method works for small tattoos, where the scar can be placed along natural skin lines. It is also considered when someone needs immediate clearance, for example, before a medical procedure or a job requirement. However, scarring is guaranteed since the area must be closed with stitches, and the final line may widen over time.

Healing usually takes one to two weeks for stitches to be removed, with full tissue recovery in several months. The result is permanent, but tension on the scarred area (like over joints) can affect its appearance.

Pros:

• Removes the entire design in a single session.

• Good choice when complete clearance is needed right away.

• Can be combined with a minor revision later to improve scar appearance.

Cons:

• Creates a permanent scar

• Not suitable for large tattoos or areas where excision would leave too much tightness.

• Cost varies by tattoo size and provider, often higher than a single laser treatment.

Dermabrasion & Salabrasion Tattoo Removal Methods

Dermabrasion tattoo removal uses a rotating tool with an abrasive surface to remove the upper layers of skin until the ink becomes less visible. Salabrasion is a similar method that uses a salt solution and abrasion to achieve the same effect. Both techniques are considered older removal methods and are far less common today.

These approaches can lighten a design but come with higher risks. Because they work by physically sanding the surface, they can lead to scarring, texture changes, and uneven pigmentation. Healing is longer compared to laser treatments, often taking weeks, and the risk of infection is higher if aftercare isn’t followed strictly.

We don't recommend dermabrasion or salabrasion because of the trauma they cause to the tissue. We prefer less aggressive techniques that preserve healthy skin and provide controlled fading.

Pros:

• Can lighten surface pigment without multiple clinic visits.

• Sometimes considered for clients who cannot undergo laser removal.

Cons:

• Painful and invasive, often requiring an anesthetic.

• High risk of scarring, infection, and long downtime.

• Results can be patchy or leave texture differences in the treated area.

Saline / Non-Laser Ink Lightening

Saline removal is a tattoo removal method that uses a solution, often salt-based, to draw pigment particles to the surface where they form a scab and naturally shed. It’s commonly used for small cosmetic tattoos such as brows, eyeliner, or lip liner.

This method can be helpful when laser treatments are not recommended, for example, when someone is allergic to certain inks or has a contraindication to light-based therapy. It is also an option for fine detail work, like lightening one part of a design without touching the rest.

However, results are less predictable than laser tattoo removal. Multiple visits are usually needed, and aftercare is strict, keeping the area dry and protected until healed. Because this method works through controlled irritation, there is still a risk of texture change or minor scarring if not cared for properly.

Pros:

• Useful for small areas and cosmetic tattoo corrections.

• Option for clients who cannot undergo light-based treatment.

• Allows selective fading for partial removal or touch-ups.

Cons:

• Slower and less predictable results than laser removal.

• It may require multiple appointments and diligent aftercare.

• Not ideal for large body tattoos.

Cover-Up vs Tattoo Removal Options

Choosing between a cover-up and complete tattoo removal depends on your goals. If you want a new design in the same spot, a cover-up can be a great solution. The challenge is that dense or dark pigment underneath can limit what a tattoo artist can create, often requiring a larger, darker piece to hide the old one.

A few laser treatments before the cover-up can lighten the existing ink enough to create a clean canvas. This allows for brighter colours, finer detail, and a smaller overall design. Most people need two to four fading sessions before booking with their artist, but the exact number depends on the depth and density of the old pigment.

If your goal is complete removal rather than replacement, continuing with laser tattoo removal until most or all of the design clears is the right path. We can help you decide whether to stop early for a cover-up or continue until you achieve near-full clearance.

Pros of Cover-Up with Fading:

• More design freedom for your artist.

• Can use lighter shades and more intricate patterns.

• Fewer total sessions compared to complete removal.

Cons:

• Slight shadow may still show through very light cover-ups.

• Not ideal if you want a completely blank area.

So, Which Tattoo Removal Method Should I Go For?

Laser tattoo removal is the safest and most predictable way to clear unwanted tattoo ink. The tattoo removal process with PicoSure uses advanced lasers that target pigments without harming the surrounding tissue. Sessions are spaced at least four weeks apart, allowing your body to naturally clear the fragments and help prevent blistering.

At your free consult at Alternative Laser Health, we review your skin type, colours, and overall health to build a plan that fits your goals. Whether you want a complete fade or just enough clearance for a new design, we explain exactly how many sessions you’ll likely need and what to expect at each step.

For people deciding between tattoo cover-up vs removal, we often recommend a few fading sessions before visiting your tattooing artist. This gives them a cleaner canvas and allows for a smaller, brighter design.

Saline vs laser tattoo removal: Saline can be useful for small cosmetic tattoos like brows or eyeliner, but it’s slower and less predictable for large designs.

Call (905) 451-4545 for laser tattoo removal in Mississauga, Ontario.

Related read: How does tattoo removal works?

FAQs

Is laser removal safe for all skin types?

Yes, laser removal can be safe for many skin types when performed by trained technicians who adjust settings carefully. We use test spots and conservative energy levels to protect the treated area and minimize risks such as pigment changes or scarring.

How much does tattoo removal surgery cost?

Tattoo removal surgery cost depends on the size of the piece, the clinic, and whether multiple sessions are needed for large designs. Small tattoos can sometimes be removed in one procedure for a few hundred dollars, while larger excisions may cost significantly more due to complexity and stitching time.

How many tattoo removal sessions before I get a cover up?

Most people need two to four sessions to lighten the area enough for a new design. The exact number depends on the density of the old ink and the type of cover-up planned. We take photos at every visit to help you and your tattoo artist decide when the area is ready.

What is surgical excision tattoo removal?

Surgical excision tattoo removal is a procedure where the tattooed skin is cut out and stitched closed. This is done under local anesthesia and is best for tiny tattoos where a straight-line scar is acceptable.

Does tattoo removal cream work?

A tattoo removal cream can only work on the outer layer of the skin, while the pigment sits deeper in the dermis. At best, it may slightly fade the surface but won’t clear the design completely. Clinical laser removal options are more reliable for full clearance.

How can I remove a tattoo without a laser?

There are options such as surgical excision, dermabrasion, or saline lightening. Each method comes with pros and cons. Excision removes the tattooed skin entirely but leaves a scar. Dermabrasion sands down the surface layer and can cause texture changes. Saline works well for small cosmetic tattoos, but it is slower and less predictable.

Which treatment or procedure removes tattoos completely?

Surgical excision fully removes a tattoo, where the tattooed area is cut out and stitched closed. However, laser treatments are safer and can also achieve near-complete fading, but require multiple visits and proper aftercare.

Are tattoo removal creams a good alternative to clinic treatments?

Creams can sometimes lighten the outer layer of the skin, but they cannot reach pigment deep in the dermis. They also carry a risk of irritation or uneven results. Professional options, such as laser removal, are far more effective if your goal is complete clearance.