More than 45,000 laser tattoo removal treatments were performed in 2013 in the U.S. according to information from the National Laser Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Whether because the ink is fading, the design needs updating or the love of your life ran off with someone else, if you’re needing to change or remove a tattoo, it’s going to cost you — probably more than the original art did.
For the proactive approach, ask your tattoo artist before committing to the ink about his or her policy regarding touchups. Some artists will do this at no cost if the changes are requested within the first six months to a year of getting a tat. Or they might charge you a lower rate than the price of a full-on inking. It’s good to know before it’s a go.
A good tattooist can alter an old design. Options are limited, however, depending on the color, style and size of the original. As the new tattoo will need to be larger than the original, you’ll most likely pay full rate.
The highest cost comes with complete tattoo removal. Laser removal is certainly the easiest way, providing the best results, but it’s not cheap. The cost depends on several factors, including the size of the tattoo, the ink colors and the type of laser. It might require several visits and procedures before it’s gone.
Removal costs range from $500 to $1,000 with some procedures reaching as high $10,000. It all depends on the size of the art and number of visits it takes.
Don’t fall for creams and lotions. While rubbing product on a tattoo with the hope the potion will remove the ink sounds good and cheap, don’t bother wasting your money. Experts agree, they just don’t work.
