Unwanted tattoos happen for all kinds of reasons—your tastes change, memories fade, or maybe the design wasn’t what you expected. If you’re stuck with ink you no longer love, you’ve got two main options: laser tattoo removal or a cover-up tattoo.
As a tattoo artist with over 18 years of experience, I’ve helped countless clients decide which route is best for them. Here's a breakdown to help you make the right call.
1. Consider the Size and Color of Your Current Tattoo
Laser Removal: Works best for lighter colors like black and blue but struggles with stubborn shades like green and yellow.
Cover-Up: Can mask nearly any color, but darker and larger designs are easier to conceal.
Pro Tip: A small tattoo with faded colors is often a good candidate for a cover-up.
2. Think About Your Skin Type and Healing Time
Laser Removal: Involves multiple sessions spaced weeks apart, which can take months to complete. Healing between treatments is essential to avoid scarring.
Cover-Up: Generally completed in 1–3 sessions, with a standard tattoo healing period of 2–4 weeks.
Pro Tip: If you want results faster, a cover-up might be the better option.
3. What’s Your Budget?
Laser Removal: Costs vary depending on the tattoo’s size and the number of sessions needed. Prices often range from $200 to $500 per session.
Cover-Up: A high-quality cover-up tattoo generally costs less than full laser removal but requires a skilled artist to ensure success.
Pro Tip: If cost is a concern, discuss options with your tattoo artist or removal specialist to weigh what’s worth it for your situation.
4. What’s Your Vision for the Final Look?
Laser Removal: Completely erases the tattoo, giving you a blank canvas to start fresh.
Cover-Up: Uses the existing tattoo as a foundation for something new. It doesn’t remove the old tattoo but transforms it.
Pro Tip: If you’re set on a specific new design that won’t work as a cover-up, you may need partial laser removal first.
5. How Much Pain Can You Tolerate?
Laser Removal: Often compared to the feeling of a rubber band snapping on your skin—intense but quick.
Cover-Up: Feels similar to getting a standard tattoo, although covering up scarred areas or heavy shading might be more uncomfortable.
Pro Tip: If pain is a deciding factor, go with the option you feel most comfortable enduring.
6. Do You Have Time for a Consultation?
Both laser removal and cover-ups require expert advice to ensure the best results. At Tattoos by Doodles, I offer consultations to evaluate your current tattoo and discuss what will work best for you.
FAQs
Q: Can I combine laser removal and a cover-up? A: Yes! A few laser removal sessions can fade your tattoo enough to make a cover-up design more flexible.
Q: Will a cover-up completely hide my old tattoo? A: With the right artist and design, most cover-ups fully conceal old tattoos. However, very dark or raised tattoos may still be slightly visible.
Q: How do I choose the right option? A: Consider your tattoo’s size, color, and placement, as well as your timeline, budget, and pain tolerance. Consulting with a professional artist like me will help you make the best decision.
At Tattoos by Doodles, I specialize in helping clients turn unwanted ink into art they love. Whether you’re considering a laser removal partnership or a stunning cover-up design, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Book a free consultation today and take the first step toward a tattoo you’ll be proud to show off.