How Tattoo Removal Works (and Why You Shouldn’t Use a Damn Cream)

Memphis Mori
Sep 10
2 min read

We need to talk about tattoo removal — and more importantly, why "tattoo removal creams" are a scam wrapped in false hope and chemical burns.

If you’re ready to part ways with your ink, here’s what actually works, what definitely doesn’t, and how modern laser removal gives you your skin back — safely.

💨 So… How Does Tattoo Removal Actually Work?

Laser tattoo removal uses short pulses of concentrated light to break up the ink particles in your skin.

These light pulses target specific pigment colors.
The laser shatters the ink particles into smaller fragments.
Your body’s lymphatic system flushes them out naturally over time.

At Reth-Ink, we use picosecond laser technology, which is faster and more effective than older nanosecond lasers. That means:

Fewer sessions
Better results
Less damage to the skin

⏱️ How Long Does It Take?

Tattoo removal isn’t instant — anyone who tells you otherwise is lying.

You’ll typically need:

6–12 sessions, spaced 6–8 weeks apart
More sessions for color ink, deep black, or scarred tattoos
Fewer sessions for faded, older, or smaller tattoos

😬 Why Tattoo Removal Creams Are a Bad Idea (Like… Really Bad)

We know they’re tempting. Drugstore “tattoo fading” creams promise cheap, painless removal in just a few weeks. But here’s the truth:

🚫 They don’t work.

They can’t reach the dermis, where the ink actually sits.
No topical cream can break up pigment particles.

🚫 They can damage your skin.

Many contain bleach, acids, or exfoliants that cause burns, blisters, and scarring.
Some people end up needing laser removal and corrective dermatology afterward.