Tattoo Removal

Tattoos are considered permanent, but to varying degrees, it is possible to remove them.

Removal is most commonly performed using lasers that react with the ink in the tattoo, and break it down. The broken-down ink is then absorbed by the body. This technique often requires many repeated visits to remove even a small tattoo, and may result in permanent scarring.

There is also a newer method of removal available which scars much less than laser techniques. That newer method uses glycolic acid which is applied into the skin with a tattoo machine. The acid pushes the ink to the surface of the skin in the scab, which is later removed. 

Cover-Up
Some wearers opt to cover an unwanted tattoo with a new tattoo. This is commonly known as a coverup or cover-up. An artfully done cover-up may render the old tattoo completely invisible, though this will depend largely on the size, style, colours and techniques used on the old tattoo.

Some shops and artists use laser removal machines to break down and lighten undesired tattoos to make coverage with a new tattoo easier.

Most Difficult To Remove
Overall, green-based ink is the most difficult to remove. Black ink is most readily broken down by the laser, and unprofessional tattoos done at home are the easiest ones to remove, due to the low quality of ink used, as well as the ineffective manner in which they were applied.

Ink: The Not-Just-Skin-Deep Guide to Getting a Tattoo by Ph.D., Terisa Green
For virgins or the heavily tattooed, whether you're looking for an anklet or a back piece, this is the exhaustive and  indispensable guide to making the best possible choices when it comes to getting inked. Think Before You Ink!