How effective is tattoo removal cream?

Hi Zelda!

I maintain that lasers are the mainstay and gold standard for tattoo removal (Am J Clin Dermatology, 2017). Lasers emitting high energies and short pulses are required to adequately destroy tattoo ink. To date, there is no clinically proven tattoo removal cream that can do the same.

Picosecond lasers, with very short pulse durations, are the newest lasers showing fast and efficacious tattoo removal (J Cutan Aesthet Surg, 2015). Whichever laser you decide to go with, II would suggest you seek out a doctor who is able to help you with the tattoo removal process. Hope this helps!

Best regards,

Dr. Joanna Chan

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Tattoo Removal in Singapore

I’m afraid that it is not very effective. I have seen these creams advertised as well and I have interviewed some of my patients who have used them.

The consensus is that the results are marginal, if any, at best. The laser remains the gold standard for tattoo removal. It would be wise to consider this as your only option. I have seen too many scars as a result of other attempts at trying to remove tattoos using common household agents.

My advice is to choose carefully where you get your treatment. The technology used as well as the operator experience are crucial to having it safely removed.