Top Treatments to Tighten and Rejuvenate Saggy Neck Skin

Sagging skin is one of the many downsides of aging. It’s a small thing to worry about, but many people find it hard to maintain a positive attitude about gaining fine lines and wrinkles – and that’s okay, too. If you want to reverse the clock a bit, several treatments – non-invasive or surgical –  are effective when it comes to skin tightening around the neck area.

So what are the top treatments that can rejuvenate and tighten saggy neck skin? Many patients choose between surgical neck lift, neck botox, or radiofrequency treatment for noticeable results. Creams and serums as well as certain exercises can also help with skin tightening, but they are mostly used as complementary steps for a more permanent solution.

Sagging Neck Skin: How it Happens and What to do About it

The skin has a certain elasticity that allows it to stretch up to an extent before snapping back in place. If the skin can’t do this anymore, it starts to sag. It happens to almost any part of the body, but it is more noticeable on the face and neck.

Although it is usually associated with aging, people of all ages can get loose skin. Those who experience dramatic weight loss are especially susceptible to this condition. Sagging skin can also be related to other medical conditions, like the Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome – a rare disorder that affects the collagen production of the body, causing several symptoms to show such as doughy skin on the face and near areas.

So what can you do to tighten skin on your neck? For slight sag, a lifestyle change, as well as some skin tightening creams and supplements might do the trick. But for moderate to significant sag, treatments like surgery, injectables, and radiofrequency therapy might be necessary.

Surgical Neck Lift

Lower rhytidectomy, or neck lift, is a surgical skin tightening procedure that targets the skin around the neck and jawline. If the patient has a great upper face skin but a loose skin in the neck, a neck lift is the better option instead of a full facelift procedure.

Costs

This average cost of a neck lift starts at $5110. The price might still increase if anesthesia fees, surgeon’s fees, facility costs, and prescriptions are to be included. To determine the final fee, consult a doctor first.

Patient Qualifications

Almost all patients are qualified for a surgical neck lift, with a few exceptions:

• Individuals who smoke
• Patients with medical conditions that might impair the healing process

How it Works

Neck lift treats sagging neck skin in three steps:

1. Anesthesia – For the patient’s comfort during the surgery, the doctor will administer the anesthesia as the procedure starts. It can be general anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
2. Creating the Incision – The size of the incision will depend on the change that the patient wants to see. A traditional incision will run from the hairline at sideburn level and down around the ear up to the posterior hair. A limited incision is shorter and only ends around the ear. Once the incision has been made, the fat deposits are redistributed and the neck tissues are repositioned. The neck skin is then lifted and any excess skin is trimmed.
3. Closing the Incision – Once the procedure is done, incisions are closed using skin glue or suture. The sutures might dissolve or be removed a couple of days after the procedure.

Results and Risks

Neck lift is a one-time procedure that produces visible results. The patient might experience swelling and bruising at the treated area and it will take several weeks before it dissipates. After the procedure, you might need to change your lifestyle to prolong the results of the neck lift.

But like any other surgical skin tightening, lower rhytidectomy includes the following risks:

• Anesthesia risks
• Facial asymmetry
• Hematoma
• Infection
• Scarring
• Skin Discoloration

Neck Botox

Neck botox, or sometimes called Nefertiti lift, is a non-surgical procedure that involves the injection of botulinum toxin type A into the patient’s neck. The skin tightening treatment is meant to paralyze neck muscles, leading to reduced lines and wrinkles. Botox effectively tightens the face, neck skin and changes the jaw’s shape.

Costs

The average cost of neck botox is usually more expensive than normal botox treatments. It is priced at around $800 while facial botox treatments only cost around $397. The price difference is caused by the number of injections needed to complete the neck treatment.

Patient Qualifications

Since it is a non-surgical treatment, anyone can opt for neck botox treatments. However, there are a few exceptions for this procedure, including patients:

• Who are breastfeeding or pregnant
• Diagnosed with psychological conditions
• Who are taking medications that might react with botulinum toxin

How it Works

The procedure is completed in a doctor’s office for at least 15 minutes. A small needle will be used to inject botulinum toxin into the platysma muscles along the neck and jaw. The toxin will block all muscle nerves in the neck, preventing the contraction that causes sagging, wrinkles, and lines.

Results and Risks

The results will start appearing two weeks after the procedure. The effects will last for up to 3-4 months before needing a touch-up session.

Like other treatments that involve the injection of botulinum toxin into the muscles, neck botox patients may also experience the following side effects:

• Injection in the wrong place
• Bruising and redness
• Weakness in the neck
• Headache

Radiofrequency Therapy

Radiofrequency therapy, or Thermalift, is another non-surgical skin tightening treatment. It utilizes energy waves that heat the deep layers of the skin, triggering collagen production. This therapy is known to tighten skin and fight signs of aging since 2001.

Costs

The non-surgical skin tightening treatment costs around $2000 per round, which needs to be repeated every few years to maintain the neck’s improved appearance and restore collagen levels.

How it Works

When the body maintains a temperature over 115-degree Fahrenheit for 3 minutes or more, it releases heat-shock proteins, which are responsible for triggering the creation of new collagen fibers. Radiofrequency waves that penetrate the skin layers for this therapy have a temperature of 122 to 167-degree Fahrenheit.

Patient Qualifications

Radiofrequency therapy is a safe procedure that almost anyone can opt for. However, there are a few exceptions:

• People with broken blood vessels or capillaries
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Patients diagnosed with rosacea

Results and Risks

The procedure is completed in an hour or less inside a doctor’s office. The results are not instant, since it might take a few weeks for the collagen to start repairing tissues in the body.

While it is a safe procedure, patients are still at risk of the following:

• Burns
• Swelling
• Redness
• Tingling

People with dark complexion have higher risks of acquiring the side effects of this treatment.

Creams and Serums

Although they are not as effective as surgical treatments and non-invasive treatments, different anti-aging creams and serums are also effective in skin tightening, fine line, and wrinkles in the body.

Patient Qualifications

Creams and serums can be utilized by people of all ages. As long as the patient has no allergies or other skin conditions, creams and serums are safe to use.

How it Works

Most creams and serums include N-acetyl glucosamine in their ingredients list. It is an effective substance that improves the turkey neck by smoothing the skin and reducing hyperpigmentation of the body.

Results and Risks

Continuous use of anti-aging creams can help improve the appearance of the sagging neck up to some extent. But for more permanent results, other treatments might be the better option.

Exercises

Regular exercise can also help the neck muscle tighten, as it improves blood circulation in the area. It can tone the muscles, but the excess skin cannot be removed without surgery.

Currently, four recommended facial exercises help tighten the turkey neck:

1. Forehead Push
   • Place your hand against the forehead.
   • Push your head against the hand without allowing it to move forward.
   • Keep this position for 10 seconds.
   • Hold your hands behind the head and push backward with the neck
   • Keep this position for 10 seconds.

2. Chew
   • Sit back straight and lift your head so that the chin points up.
   • Seal the lips together while creating chewing motions with the mouth.
   • Repeat this exercise 20 times.

3. Kiss
   • Sit back straight and lift your head so that the chin points up.
   • Pout the lips as if you are kissing.
   • Repeat this exercise 20 times.

4. Neck Lift
   • Lie in the bed as your head hangs over the edge.
   • Slowly lift your head using the neck muscles.
   • Repeat this exercise five times.
   • If you experience neck pain, discontinue the exercise.

Picking the Right Treatment for You

	Pros	Cons
Surgical Neck Lift	It is a one-time treatment that repositions the muscles and trims excess skin.	It leaves incision lines that are barely noticeable in the hairline up to the ear area.
Neck Botox	This non-surgical treatment is basically painless.	The botox might be injected in the wrong place if performed by an inexperienced practitioner.
Radiofrequency Therapy	Another non-surgical skin tightening procedure that triggers the collagen production of the skin for a more natural neck lift.	It doesn’t work as well on darker complexions.
Creams and Serums	Since it is readily available in the drugstore, you won’t have to pay for a doctor.	The results are only minimal, so it is better off as a complementary procedure.
Exercise	It is free and can be added to your daily exercise regime.	It can only tone the muscles, but it cannot remove excess skin.

If sagging skin is something that worries you, there are several effective treatments you can choose from. A surgical face & neck lift, neck botox, and radiofrequency therapy are some of the most effective treatments that can help in collagen production and skin tightening. On the other hand, creams and exercises are only helpful to some extent, so it would be better to just combine them with other treatments.

To know which treatment would suit your lifestyle the best, a consultation with a doctor is necessary.

Skin Tightening with Different Treatments at Ethos Spa

Want to get rid of the sagging neck skin? At Ethos Spa, we offer several treatments for skin tightening around your neck.

Our team of experts has years of experience when it comes to handling patients who want to try skin tightening treatments. Contact us now and let’s see what we can do about your turkey neck.

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Can Stretch Marks Be Removed with Microneedling?

There are dozens of reasons why stretch marks form in the body: aging, pregnancy, diet, and more. It’s normal to have them, but no one wants to be spotted with one – or many. But there’s no need to be anxious about showing off your skin, now that different stretch mark-erasing treatments like microneedling have been created.

So can microneedling effectively remove stretch marks? Yes, microneedling has been observed to relieve the skin of stretch marks and other skin issues by creating microscopic wounds that trigger the production of elastin and collagen.

The Causes of Stretch Marks and Why Removal is Important

The skin is elastic enough to stretch and return to its original size. However, when sudden changes happen, the skin copes by producing less collagen and disordered fibers that appear as long discolored streaks. They are commonly seen in areas like the thighs, upper arms, breasts, buttocks, and abdomen.

Both men and women can develop stretch marks. These marks are commonly tied to physical changes like puberty, weight gain, rapid weight loss, and pregnancy. Although it is something that everyone experiences, people are eager to erase stretch marks for personal reasons.

That’s why dermatologists and aestheticians everywhere are developing effective treatments to get rid of stretch marks. And among the many solutions available, microneedling is one of the most effective procedures on the market today.

What Makes Microneedling the Best Treatment for Stretch Marks

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a non-surgical procedure that can induce the body’s production of collagen and elastin. It is a known treatment for many dermal battle scars like wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and acne scars. But it can also treat stretch marks in different areas of the body.

How it Effectively Removes Stretch Marks

To remove the stretch marks, microneedling creates micro-injuries in the treatment area. This triggers the body to produce more collagen and elastin that heals the wounds. Stretch mark removal through microneedling occurs in three stages:

1. Inflammation – Upon piercing the skin, the immune system is triggered to disinfect the wound, extract the debris, improve the blood flow, and create tissues.
2. Proliferation – With temporary collagen and elastin, the wound rebuilds itself.
3. Remodeling – The temporary collagen is replaced by stronger collagen that tightens the skin.

Aside from restarting the collagen production, microneedling also heals the connective tissues of the dermis that created the stretch mark. This procedure is a great solution because it punctures the skin deep enough to cause a reaction within the same dermal layer where the marks were formed.

The Cost of Microneedling vs Other Treatments

	Price per session	No. of session(s) required
Microdermabrasion	$139	5-10
Microneedling	$200 - $700	3-6
Laser Skin Resurfacing (Non-Ablative)	$1031 - $2330	3-4
Laser Skin Resurfacing (Ablative)	$2000 - $4000	1
Surgical Removal	$5300+	1

A session of microneedling can cost around $200 - $700. The number of treatments may vary per individual, but the typical count is 3 to 6 sessions that are 2 to 6 weeks apart. Depending on the results, maintenance sessions might be necessary.

Like most cosmetic procedures, microneedling is not covered by insurance plans. You must pay everything out of the pocket, so you might want to reduce the cost as much as possible. Here are the following factors that affect the price of microneedling sessions:

• Provider’s experience
• Your location
• Number of follow-up treatments
• Extent of procedure

Results, Risk Factors, and Side Effects

Since microneedling isn’t invasive, the time for the healing process for patients is only minimal. Results will take a couple of weeks to show but the appearance of stretch marks improves over time. For more lasting results, maintenance treatments might be needed.

Microneedling doesn’t cause major complications. Skin irritation is a common side effect that immediately shows after the procedure. Contact your doctor immediately once the following side effects show:

• Excessive bleeding
• Peeling
• Bruising
• Infection at the treated site

Although it is a generally safe procedure, microneedling might be risky for the patient if they:

• Have open wounds
• Have a history of skin scars and diseases like eczema or psoriasis
• Are pregnant
• Underwent radiation therapy recently

Other Alternative Treatments

Aside from microneedling, stretch marks can also be erased using the following procedures:

• Microdermabrasion – works by exfoliating the dead skin cells at the top layer and encouraging the growth of healthier cells. While it doesn’t completely remove the marks, it helps fade the appearance of “tiger stripes.”
• Laser Therapy – helps remove the upper late of the skin to allow the growth of smoother skin tissues. Like microdermabrasion, this treatment only improves the appearance of stretch marks.
• Surgical removal – also known as “tummy tuck” is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from the abdomen. It is an effective way to remove stretch marks permanently, but it only works for the abdomen area. Since it is a surgical treatment, the patient will be at risk of different complications such as blood clots, skin necrosis, and infection.
• Tretinoin creams – help restore the skin’s collagen. It works best on pink or red stretch marks. However, sensitive skin can experience irritation. Pregnant women are also restricted from applying these products.

Finding the Right Doctor for Microneedling Treatment

Although microneedling is a non-invasive procedure, it’s still important that the medical practitioner who performs the treatment knows what they are doing. If you know someone who already had microneedling treatment for their stretch marks, talk to them about the experience, as well as the provider.

It’s also helpful to research the practitioner first to see if they have experience in removing stretch marks through microneedling. Check their website and read about clinic reviews.

Erase Stretch Marks and Other Signs of Aging with Ethos Spa

Stretch marks are normal, but that doesn’t mean you should live with them forever. With Ethos Spa, you can erase the “tiger stripes” and regain self-confidence.

With our team of experienced practitioners, you can say goodbye to the marks on your tummy, thighs, upper arms, and buttocks. We offer minimally invasive treatments to minimize the risks that usually come with surgical procedures.

For more information about how microneedling can remove your stretch marks, contact us now for a consultation.

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Which is Better: PRP or Hair Transplant?

Hair loss is a common condition that affects many. It’s nothing to feel embarrassed about because it’s a part of everyone’s lives. But if the thinning of your crowning glory is something to be concerned about, there are a few effective treatments – like hair transplant and PRP to name a couple – you can opt for.

But between PRP and hair transplant, which procedure can treat hair loss better? Hair transplant is a common solution that offers dramatic results. But for anyone searching for a less invasive treatment, PRP is a non-surgical alternative that promotes natural hair regrowth.

Hair Loss: Why it Happens and How to Treat it

Hair loss affects both men and women differently. It is more prevalent in men, as they experience thinning at the crown or a receding “M” shape in the hairline due to male pattern baldness. On the other hand, androgenic alopecia in women forms a different pattern: it may start at the part line or in diffused patches all over the head.

There are medications and procedures developed to reverse alopecia but PRP and hair transplant are two of the most effective treatments many patients opt for because they provide long-term results. Their main difference is that hair transplantation requires surgery while PRP treatment only uses syringes.

PRP Treatment for Hair Loss

PRP or platelet-rich plasma therapy is a less invasive treatment that uses the patient’s plasma to trigger hair growth naturally. It is a three-step procedure that thickens the growing hair shaft alone or in combination with other hair loss treatments.

Cost

The price range for PRP therapy is around $1,500-$3,500 for the first three sessions. An additional injection can be bought for at least $400.This rate can still change depending on the clinic’s location and the quality of the equipment used.

The first three sessions are completed 4-6 weeks apart, but the patients need to return for maintenance treatments every 4-6 months.

Patient Qualifications

Both men and women who experience androgenic alopecia because of different reasons can opt for the PRP procedure. However, there are a few restrictions to consider. To know if PRP is the optimal treatment for alopecia, it would be best to consult a doctor first. PRP therapy might not be for you if:

• You have a low platelet count
• You are under blood-thinning medications
• You are a heavy smoker
• You have drug or alcohol misuse history

The Science Behind PRP Treatment

PRP consists of different proteins and growth factors that repair body tissues faster. It is usually used to treat muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries. Over the last few years, scientists have been developing the usage of PRP as a treatment for androgenic alopecia. PRP aims to repair the damaged hair follicles for more natural hair regrowth.

PRP hair restoration treatment for hair fall works in three steps:

• Step 1: Collection – A sample is collected from the arm and put into a centrifuge.
• Step 2: Separation – The centrifuge runs for 10 minutes to separate the sample into three layers: platelet-poor plasma, platelet-rich plasma, and red blood cells. Only the platelet-rich plasma layer is utilized for the therapy.
• Step 3: Injection – A syringe will draw up the platelet-rich plasma from the sample. It will be injected into the treatment areas of the scalp

Results

Patients who opt for PRP treatment reported an increase in hair volume. Additional PRP injections might be needed if the patient wants to maintain hair growth. However, PRP is only effective for hair loss, not the underlying cause. If the hair fall is caused by a more severe medical condition, proper treatment might be necessary to completely reverse hair loss.

Risk and Side Effects

What makes PRP hair restoration treatment safer than a surgical procedure is that it uses the patient’s blood sample. This means there are fewer risks compared to when a foreign substance is introduced to the body.

However, the patient may still experience minor side effects such as:

• Swelling
• Scalp tenderness
• Headaches
• Itching
• Mild pain at the injection site
• Temporary bleeding at the injection site

Hair Transplant for Hair Loss

Hair transplantation is an invasive surgical procedure that takes hair from other parts of your head and places it on the bald spot. Depending on the severity of the baldness, slit graft or micrograft can be performed. Hair transplant surgery is usually carried out in a medical office by an experienced dermatological or plastic surgeon.

Cost

The cost of hair transplant surgery will depend on the amount of hair to be moved, the surgeon’s experience, and the technique to be performed. The national average ranges from $4,000 to $15,000.

Since it is classified as a cosmetic procedure, most health insurance plans don’t cover the costs of hair transplantation.

Patient Qualifications

Hair transplant surgery is a good treatment that can dramatically improve the appearance of a balding scalp. Both men and women who experience androgenic alopecia can opt for this treatment. However, transplant surgery might not work for:

• Women who experience widespread hair loss in their scalp
• Patients with no “donor hair sites”
• Patients whose hair fall are caused by chemotherapy or other similar medications

How Hair Transplant Works

Hair transplant surgery is a method that extracts hair from parts of your scalp with thicker hair and transfers it to the balding spots. There are two techniques to choose from: follicular unit transplantation (FUT) and follicular unit extraction (FUE)

So what is the difference between these two procedures? In FUT, a strip of scalp skin is removed to extract the hair follicles. These follicular units will then be transferred to the treatment area. For FUE, individual hair follicles are directly plucked from the scalp and moved to the balding spot.

Hair restoration takes at least four hours to be completed. The stitches from the procedure can only be removed after 10 days.

Results

Hair transplants are more effective than other restoration procedures for the hair. Hair fall might still occur two to three weeks after the treatment, but this is completely normal. New hair follicles can be observed 8 to 12 months after the surgery.

Risks and Side Effects

Patients don’t have to worry about major complications with this procedure. However, there are a few minor side effects the patient might experience including:

• Bleeding and bruising
• Infection
• Numbness at the treated area
• Itching
• Unnatural-looking hair in some parts

Choosing the Right Treatment

	Pros	Cons
PRP	It is a non-invasive treatment that allows hair follicles to grow naturally.	Wrongly injected plasma can cause headaches or infection in the area that lasts for a few days.
Hair Transplant	It provides noticeable results in the treated area that can last a lifetime.	Newly transplanted hair can experience “shock loss” that lasts for two to three weeks.

Hair transplant produces remarkable results, but natural hair growth will only take place 8 to 12 months after the surgery. PRP can give you natural hair restoration within a few sessions, but maintenance treatments are needed to maintain the results.

Explore Hair Loss Treatment Options at Ethos Spa

Want to regrow your confidence? Know more about the different hair fall treatment options we offer at Ethos Spa.

Our team of aesthetic experts is committed to providing you the safest and most effective procedures to reverse hair loss. Contact us now to schedule your first consultation.

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What is the Hardest Color Tattoo to Remove?

People have millions of ways to express their personalities – from the clothes they wear to the car they drive or the ink on their bodies. As with cars and clothes, there are different ink colors to choose from when it comes to selecting tattoo pigment. However, not all pigments are created the same as some tattoo colors may be more difficult to remove than others. 

So which tattoo color is the hardest to remove? White ink is one of the harder pigments to extract because it only reflects the laser light instead of absorbing it. If you are planning to undo white ink, remember that there is also a risk of darkening the ink instead of completely removing it.

Common Tattoo Colors: Which Colors Are Hard to Remove?

When you visit a laser technician, the first thing to ask them is will the color of my tattoo affect the removal process? The answer is yes. Since laser treatment sessions use light wavelengths, the color of the ink will dictate how much light can be absorbed by the skin. Different colors require specific laser wavelengths so they can be removed.

Here are common tattoo colors and a short description of how difficult to extract they are:

• Black – Black ink is the default color of tattoos. Black, gray, and other similar shades are the easiest to remove because they absorb all the light.
• Darker hues – Red, dark green, and navy are also fairly easy to undo because they can absorb the majority of the light from the laser treatments.
• Lighter tones – Lighter tones like yellow, blue, purple, and green can be tricky because they are placed in the lower part of the absorption spectrum. This also applies to neon-colored inks.
• White – White inks are the hardest tattoo ink to remove because it doesn’t absorb much of the light. They can even darken during laser removal treatment.

Why Are Some Colors Easier to Remove Than Others?

There are two factors to consider when it comes to removing colored tattoos: one is the color of the tattoo, and the other is the type of laser utilized during the procedure.

The basic rule of tattoo removal is that the closest color to the shade of the skin is, the harder it is to undo. Some colors like black, gray, and navy absorb light better, making it easier to break the ink particle in the skin. But lighter colors like white, yellow, and neon hues can be challenging because they can only absorb a fraction of the laser.

One laser cannot be used to remove all the ink colors of your tattoo. Each type specializes in targeting different wavelengths. Here are three of the different lasers used for tattoo removal:

• Q-switched ruby laser has a 694nm wavelength that can undo black, blue and green ink
• Q-switched alexandrite laser has a 755nm wavelength that can also remove black, blue, green ink
• Q-switched Nd: YAG laser comes in two different wavelengths: 532nm for red pigments and 1064nm for blue and black colors

How Are Colored Tattoos Removed?

If you’re thinking of getting a tattoo because tattoo removal services are accessible anyway, you might have to think twice about this semi-permanent decision. While tattoo removal treatments are becoming more common, it’s not exactly an easy process, especially if you’re planning to get inked with multiple colors. 

Tattoos are permanent on the skin because of the heavy metals in them, such as manganese, copper, and lead. These elemental particles can be difficult to remove without the help of lasers. Lasers heat these particles and zap them apart. They are eventually swept into the bloodstream to be engulfed by the white blood cells.

To remove the tattoo, you might need to return for two to ten sessions depending on the number of layers, size, and colors of the tattoo.

What Are Effective Treatments for Colored Tattoo Removal?

If you want to remove colored tattoos, there are three options to choose from:

1. Laser Removal is considered the most effective way to undo colored tattoos. However, it can yield different results depending on the color of the tattoo; dark-colored ones are easier to remove than lighter ones.
2. Surgical Removal involves cutting off the inked skin and sewing the remaining parts together. It is an effective method to remove colored tattoos because pigments are not considered during surgery. However, it leaves a scar, so it is better for smaller tattoos.
3. Dermabrasion removes the upper layers of the skin, allowing the ink to escape. The results for each person are hard to predict, which is why it’s not a common treatment.

Remove Your Colored Tattoos at Ethos Spa

Tattoos are a life-long commitment. But if you decide one day that you don’t want an inked skin anymore, go for laser tattoo removal here at Ethos Spa. Our state-of-the-art laser system can safely remove tattoos of all colors. Schedule a consultation with us now.

Learn more: Can Microneedling Remove Tattoo?

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Ways to Manage Through the Pain and Discomfort of Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal is an effective way to remove unwanted tattoos. The procedure involves the release of heated lasers to the skin to break the tattoo particles into smaller pieces.  Although effective, laser tattoo removal can cause some discomfort, depending on your pain tolerance. The good news is that there are ways to keep your pain to a minimum. 

So what pain relief options do you have for tattoo removal?  The best pain relief options include over-the-counter and home remedies including ice packs, cold-air machines, number creams, and lidocaine injections. Taking Tylenol or other non-aspirin pain medications before and after the procedure will also help ease the discomfort.

Pain Relief for Tattoo Removal

Tattoo removal works by delivering quick pulses of light and heat, which is essentially what the treatment requires to effectively break down the tattoo particles. To some patients, the heat sensation on their skin can be a little uncomfortable. Luckily, there are a few ways to relieve discomfort brought by laser tattoo removal:

Ice Packs

Cold packs might be an old way of numbing pain but it is surely effective. Pressing an ice pack against the skin for 5 to 10 minutes before the procedure should help numb the treatment area. 

If you don’t have a cold pack at home, prepare an alternative by wrapping ice cubes with a towel. Plastic bags filled with frozen vegetables like peas can also serve as a good substitute for ice packs.

Cold-Air Machines

Some clinics have cold air machines that can help minimize thermal injury and discomfort during treatments such as tattoo removal.  It works in the same way as ice packs by numbing the skin through intense cooling. Ask your clinic if they have a device such as the Cryo 6.  

The Zimmer cryo machines can be utilized during the procedure, as well as after the laser tattoo removal treatment. It helps reduce the redness and swelling in the treatment area. 

Numbing Creams

Numbing creams are commonly used in operations that can cause palpable pain to the patient. This topical anesthesia works by blocking the nerve endings that send pain signals to the brain. While the numbing cream is still effective, you still feel dull sensations on the treated area instead of sharp pain.

Numbing creams can also be administered once the surgery is finished; just buy them from the nearest drugstore. But also keep in mind the following precautions as it is applied to the skin:

• Do not apply the numbing cream to irritated or broken skin
• Wipe it off the skin after an hour
• If the patient was recently diagnosed with a liver or heart disease, consult the doctor first before applying the numbing cream
• Pregnant or lactating mothers should consult with a doctor first before applying the numbing cream to the treated area
• Stop applying the cream if the patient is found to be allergic to lidocaine and other substances in the label

Lidocaine Injections

Lidocaine is the most effective topical anesthesia available on the market. This chemical also comes in the form of topical ointments and creams but is also available as an injectable. Lidocaine is usually injected when the tattoo to be removed is large.

Lidocaine is not for sale in the local market because it is only for medical professional use. It is also not recommended for regular use because overdose in lidocaine can result in poisoning and other emergencies.

How Painful is Tattoo Removal?

The pain during a tattoo removal session may vary depending on the individual. Some say it feels a lot like getting tattooed but others find the removal process more painful. However, it is described by countless people as “rubber snapped against the skin.” Ultimately, it depends on your individual pain tolerance.

What makes tattoo removal uncomfortable is the quick pulses of heat to break up the ink particles. Another factor that might affect the pain during a session of tattoo removal is the tattoo’s location. Some areas are more sensitive than others because they have more receptor cells that pick up pain signals.

The hands and feet are very sensitive because they have more nerve endings. Places close to a bone are also bound to be painful when pierced with a tattoo needle or shot with hot laser beams. If the tattoo is in a sensitive area, expect that the tattoo removal will probably feel more uncomfortable.

Numbing the Skin Before, During, and After Tattoo Removal

If you have low pain tolerance, it’s better to perform pain relief procedures before, during, and after the laser tattoo removal treatments.

• Before

Numb the treatment area with a cold compress against the skin for five to ten minutes before the treatment starts. It is also safe to ingest non-aspirin pain medicine like Tylenol because it doesn’t cause bruising around the treatment area – unlike ibuprofen does.

You can also ask the doctor for topical anesthesia to help ease the discomfort. If they have one, cold air machines are also a great way to prep the skin before the procedure.

• During

While the treatment is ongoing, you can only feel a dull pain in the area thanks to the numbing cream. Cold-air machines can also be utilized during the procedure to prevent thermal injuries.

• After

You are still allowed to take Tylenol after the treatment and numbing creams is usually available in the nearest pharmacy. Ask the doctor which are the best brands or what ingredients should be in the label. Pressing a cold compress against the treatment area every now and then can also help ease the pain.

Experience Less Painful Laser Tattoo Removal Treatments at Ethos Spa

Here at Ethos Spa, we want to make sure that you are comfortable as you undergo laser tattoo removal.

We aim to provide the best care, so don’t hesitate to ask our doctors for numbing options to make the process bearable. Contact us now so we can discuss options to choose from as you undergo laser tattoo removal.

Learn more: What is the Hardest Color Tattoo to Remove?

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How to Prep for Laser Tattoo Removal

Tattoos are a life-long commitment, but some people still seek to remove them because of different reasons. The most common way to do this is by laser tattoo removal. The process sounds simple enough – the technician shoots lasers into the dermal layer to break the tattoo particles apart. But that’s not all there is to it – the science behind it is a lot more complicated.

So how can you prepare for a laser tattoo removal procedure? Make sure to consult a medical professional first before heading to the nearest tattoo removal clinic. Patients only have to eat a full meal, wear loose clothes, and take non-aspirin pain medication before proceeding with the treatment.

Learn everything you need to know about how to prep for tattoo removal below.

Laser Tattoo Removal Checklist: Everything Needed to Prepare

If you’re one of 12% who are considering removing their tats, laser tattoo removal can help with that. But before starting with the procedure, it’s important to consult a medical professional first. They will review the patient’s medical history and discuss the possible risks of laser tattoo removal.

While it is a generally safe treatment, there are still things to prepare before the day of the laser tattoo removal session arrives. Here is a checklist to follow before arriving at the clinic:

• Eat a full meal and keep yourself hydrated before the appointment.

Keeping the stomach full can prevent the patient from feeling dizzy while the procedure is ongoing. Although removal sessions are completed in under 60 minutes, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

• Wear loss clothing especially over the treatment area

If the tats are usually covered by clothes, wear loose-fitting clothes on the way to the clinic and for a few days after the treatment. Since the treated area swells after the procedure, it’ll be extremely uncomfortable to wear a fitted top or squeeze into skinny jeans. Wearing loose clothes will also allow the skin to heal properly by giving it enough room to breathe.

• Take non-aspirin pain relief medication to help ease the discomfort

Ingesting Tylenol before the treatment can help reduce the discomfort during the removal of unwanted tattoos. But why not take Ibuprofen instead of Tylenol? Although they both relieve pain, Ibuprofen might cause bruising around the treatment area. Tylenol won’t result in bruises because it is processed in the liver.

• Do not put lotion or other cosmetics over the tattoo

Lotion and other alcohol-based topical products can irritate the skin. Opt for a numbing cream instead but inform the doctor first.

• Avoid sun exposure weeks prior the treatment and apply sunscreen

The skin becomes more sensitive when it is exposed to the sun. Sun exposure can also cause sunburns and tanning, which makes it difficult for the laser technician to remove the tattoo on the skin. If stepping outside is necessary, apply some sunscreen first.

Is Laser Tattoo Removal Safe?

Yes, laser tattoo removal is a safe way to remove an unwanted tattoo. The recent advancements in laser technology have lessened the risk of tattoo scarring at the laser treatment area. It is also safer than other methods like dermabrasion – a procedure that removes the top layers of the tattooed skin.

Laser procedures work by sending strong pulses from the Q-switched lasers into the dermis layer. These pulses heat the ink underneath the skin, breaking it down to smaller pieces. Another benefit of laser tattoo removal is that it eliminates specific tattoo color on the skin. Some colors respond to the laser better than others, but blue/black pigments are usually easy to remove.

However, laser treatments also face the risk of the following side effects:

• Infection at the treated site
• Incomplete pigment elimination
• Tattoo scars
• Hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation

Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?

Different tats might be better suited for different elimination techniques. Consider laser removal if the tattoo:

• makes you feel self-conscious
• limits your clothing choices
• does not reflect your personality anymore
• changed and doesn’t look good on your skin anymore
• can’t be removed by other tattoo elimination methods

But laser procedures aren't for everyone. The qualifications for a good candidate include someone who:

• is fair-skinned – Although the laser can easily remove black or blue pigments, it might be a different case for dark-skinned people. The treatment will still work for tanned people, but the treatment might require more sessions for the removal to be completed.
• is healthy – Sending pulses into the skin is only the start of the laser procedure. Once the ink has broken down into micro-particles absorbable by the body, it is the immune system’s job to flush the particles out of the body. If the body is not in a healthy state, treatment should be postponed until the patient feels better. 
• already has old tattoos – Older tattoos are easier to remove than newer ones. Over the years, the lymphatic system already got a headstart and removed some of the ink particles. That’s why the tattoo appears faded over time.
• doesn’t smoke – Smoking impairs the immune system and reduces the blood circulation in the body. That’s why the blood will have a hard time flushing the ink particles from the skin out of the body.
• was inked in the back, neck, or face – Laser treatments work best if the tattoo is located somewhere with good blood circulation. This way, more white blood cells can attack the smaller ink particles. Tattoos located in the lower legs, hands, and feet might take longer to be removed completely.

What Happens During a Laser Tattoo Removal Procedure?

Once the consultation about the laser and the removal sessions needed is done, the skin will be tested to observe how it reacts to the laser. If there’s no problem, the first treatment date should be scheduled.

So what happens inside the clinic during laser treatment?

First, the technician will apply a numbing cream to the area. You will also be asked to wear protective eye gear. Once everything is ready, the provider will point a handpiece against the skin which sends laser pulses to the pigment. You might feel a sensation like rubber snapping against the skin – this is completely normal. The whole session is completed within a few minutes, depending on the sizes of the tats.

What Happens After Laser Tattoo Removal?

Right after the procedure, the treated site will start to swell. Loose clothing is recommended because the cloth and the sensitive area won’t brush against each other. Aside from the swelling, the patient might also experience redness, blistering, and minor bleeding for a few days.

In the weeks to follow the treatment, there might be scabbing, peeling, and flaking around the area. This is still normal, but it’s essential to take care of the skin well. As the site heals, make sure to avoid exposure to the sun.

For the tattoo to be completely erased, two to twelve sessions might be needed. During this time, it is best to be acquainted with the doctor and update them with any changes in the treated area.

How Can I Choose the Right Doctor for Laser Tattoo Removal?

The success of the tattoo removal treatment will also depend on the doctor. It’s important to find a dermatologist that has the right education, experience, and training on erasing tattoos with lasers. Picking a doctor you are comfortable with can help you get through the treatment better.

Undo Your Unwanted Tattoo with Laser Tattoo Removal at Ethos Spa

Do your tattoos not suit you anymore? No need to be stuck with old tats when there is an effective way to remove it and ensure your comfort during post-treatment.

At Ethos Spa, we use the gold standard of laser removal technology – the PicoSure laser system. It is a safe and effective device that can remove all colors of tattoo on your body. Our staff is experienced in taking care of all your needs as laser tattoo removal treatment takes place.

Contact us now and book your first tattoo removal session. 

Learn more: Ways to Manage Through the Pain and Discomfort of Laser Tattoo Removal

The post How to Prep for Laser Tattoo Removal appeared first on Ethos Spa.

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How Can I Remove My Permanent Tattoo Without Laser?

Laser tattoo removal is the most common way to get rid of a tattoo. However, it is not always effective – lasers can only work well on darker hues while lighter tattoos would take more sessions for the pigment to completely vanish.

So are there other ways to remove a permanent tattoo without using a laser? There are a few options to choose from: surgical removal or dermabrasion. There are also tattoo removal creams available in the market, as well as some DIY solutions to make at home, but they might bring more harm than good.

“Laser-less” Options to Remove Your Permanent Tattoo

While there are a variety of tattoo removal methods without laser usage that can remove permanent tattoos, it’s important to consult a doctor to find out which is the best treatment. If laser treatment is out of the question, consider the following procedures instead:

Surgical Removal

Also known as excision tattoo removal without laser, surgical tattoo removal methods cut off the tattooed skin without laser usage. It is the most invasive tattoo removal method. To close the wound, the remaining skin is sewn back together.

The major problem with surgical removal is that it leaves tattoo scars after the procedure. This kind of tattoo removal without laser usage is also only ideal for small tattoos. After the surgery, the skin might feel tight. The doctor can prescribe application of moisturizing lotions or sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher to relieve discomfort.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion works by “sanding” the upper layers of the skin. With the help of a rapidly rotating disc scraping off a layer of the skin, the ink particles leach out. Depending on the size, layers, and colors of the tattoo, dermabrasion can remove permanent tattoos.

One downside of this treatment is that the results vary greatly depending on the individual involved in the procedure. People with sensitive skin or other skin conditions are not recommended to choose this treatment. It’s also not recommended for dark-skinned individuals because they are at great risk of pigment change.

Removal Cream

One more way to remove a tattoo without surgery or laser is by using tattoo removal creams. They are widely used because they are inexpensive. However, there is no evidence that these products completely remove a tattoo. At best, they only help the tattoo fade. Removal creams can also irritate sensitive skin, so it is not recommended for use.

Home Remedies

Many people use salt as a common treatment for exfoliation purposes. Use it to scrub the tattoo, but be careful not to overdo it and accidentally hurt yourself. It can also be mixed with lemon juice: soak a piece of cotton with the salt and lemon juice mixture and dab it over the tattoo for around 30-60 minutes. Rinse it with warm water.

The idea of cheap and DIY alternatives at home seem tempting, but there is no evidence proving these solutions can remove a tattoo completely or even just fade the ink by a little.

Removing Tattoos at Home

For anyone who doesn’t have the time – or the money – to visit a clinic and have their tattoos professionally removed, DIY solutions are worth a try. But they couldn’t be more wrong: most of the time, these seemingly cheaper alternatives bring more harm than good.

Here are some of the absolutely ineffective home remedies to watch out for:

• Salabrasion – peels a thin layer of the epidermis by rubbing salt at the skin’s surface. It can lead to scarring and extreme pain.
• Yogurt and aloe vera – are not dangerous for the skin, but they’re not effective in removing tattoos either.
• Sand – is meant to mimic dermabrasion. But there is no evidence that sand can help remove the tattoo pigment.
• Lemon juice – is known to lighten the skin. But like any natural ingredient in this list, there is no evidence that lemon can remove ink particles on the skin. This acidic solution can produce rashes on the skin if exposed to the sun.
• Salicylic acid – is an exfoliating agent that removes dead skin cells. However, this only works on the surface of the skin. It cannot reach deep enough to penetrate the tattooed layer of the dermis.
• Glycolic acid – is more potent than the previous acid, but similarly, it can only reach the epidermis. That makes it useless in removing the tattoo completely.

Tattoo removal without laser usage is a complicated process that should only be performed by trusted professionals to avoid severe skin damage. As of now, laser treatment is the safest and most effective way to remove an unwanted tattoo.

Laser Tattoo Removal vs Other Alternatives: Which is Better at Removing Permanent Tattoos?

Before choosing a procedure that can remove permanent tattoos, it’s also helpful to look at the advantages and disadvantages of other alternative treatments:

	Pros	Cons
Laser Tattoo Removal	It is an FDA-approved tattoo removal method that’s also cost-effective and safe.	Some tattoo colors are harder to remove than others and might require more sessions.
Surgical Removal	It is the cheapest option out of the three and it can remove the tattoo completely within one session.	It causes tattoo scarring, so it is only ideal for smaller tattoos.
Dermabrasion	It is completed in around an hour and you won’t have to come back for additional sessions.	It might not be ideal for people with sensitive skin.

Procedures

All three procedures have a different approach when it comes to removing the ink particles on the skin. Among them, laser tattoo removal is the least invasive – it only utilizes pulses that break up the ink particles into pieces small enough to be flushed out by the body.

Dermabrasion is the next one in terms of invasiveness – it sands the upper layer of the skin with a rapidly rotating disk so that the ink can escape from the skin. Lastly, surgical removal – the most invasive treatment –  works by removing the tattooed skin altogether. The doctor then sews the remaining skin to close the wound.

Scarring

Anyone who opts for surgical tattoo removal without laser usage can experience scarring. For dermabrasion and laser removal patients, scars will only develop if the patient isn’t careful with aftercare.

Costs

It’s important to consider your budget first before selecting which treatment will be worth it. Out of the three prescribed procedures, surgical removal is the cheapest at $150 to $350. Next is the laser tattoo removal at a national average of $463, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dermabrasion is a bit expensive – it can cost up to several thousands of dollars.

What Makes Laser Tattoo Removal Method the Best Choice?

If you are searching for a sure way to remove a permanent tattoo, laser treatment is the best option right now. It is a minimally invasive method that utilizes a laser in breaking down the tattoo ink particles into microscopic pieces. After that, the immune system naturally rids the body of these foreign particles..

The laser also targets specific tattoo pigment, so that the other colors are unaffected during a session. This method also minimizes the risks that usually accompany surgical methods, such as bleeding and infection at the target site.

Explore Tattoo Removal Options at Ethos Spa

Here at Ethos Spa, we will help you remove the unwanted tattoo without much fuss using the gold standard in the tattoo removal industry – the PicoSure laser system. What sets it apart from the other lasers in the market is that it can safely remove any color tattoo from the skin.

We at Ethos Spa are experienced in assisting our tattoo removal patients with the right care they need. Don’t struggle to remove your tattoo without laser treatment; schedule your laser appointment today.

Learn more: How to Prep for Laser Tattoo Removal

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Can Microneedling Remove Tattoo?

While most people love their tattoos for life, there are some who seek to have it removed eventually – whether they become bored with it or it’s not allowed in their workplace. However, the big problem is that laser tattoo removal doesn’t always work on multiple colored inks, or tattoos made with multiple colors. This leads to people to find alternative treatments – such as microneedling – that might just be as effective.

But can micro-needling remove your permanent tattoos? This treatment can help but it can’t work on its own. It can only serve as a complementary step to other tattoo removal procedures – like laser treatment. The micro punctures that the roller creates allow the laser light to penetrate the dermis layer better.

Removing Tattoos with Microneedling: Is it Possible?

Micro-needling is a popular treatment for anyone looking to improve their skin or reduce acne scars. It comes in the form of a derma roller filled with micro-fine needles measuring 0.5 up to 2.5 millimeters in diameter. This treatment rejuvenates by creating micro-injuries on your skin and triggering the scar tissue to produce more collagen.

However, this treatment is not an effective way to permanently remove tats. Tattoo ink penetrates deep into the layers of the dermis, but dermarollers can only reach up to the skin’s upper layer.

Although it cannot remove tattoo ink by itself, the micro treatment can help the tattoo removal process by puncturing the skin and allowing the laser light to get into the dermis layer better. It can also help the healing process of the tattoo scar by boosting collagen production.

How Many Microneedling Sessions Before My Tattoo is Removed?

The number of sessions required will depend on the number of laser removal sessions needed. Laser treatment alone will take an average of 15 sessions before the tattoo is completely removed.

Microneedling reduces the total number of appointments needed because it improves the laser’s effectiveness in every session. However, the doctor needs an additional 15 minutes of micro-needling procedure before starting every laser tattoo removal session.

You can also consider continuing the treatments even after tattoo removal sessions are done. Since tats partially destroy the epidermal layer, tattoo scars are the collateral damage left after the tattoo is removed. Micro-needling helps get rid of the scar, remove the residual ink, and improve skin color.

Can I Combine Microneedling with Other Treatments?

Micro-needling is a minimally invasive procedure that only targets the upper layer of your skin. What’s great about this treatment is that it assists other skin-penetrating procedures – like laser tattoo removal – to work better.

But like most cosmetic treatments, you still need to follow certain precautions. This will ensure that skin needling will bring out the best results if combined with other treatments. Here are some aftercare tips to help the skin recover faster:

• Cleanse the skin – Gently cleanse the skin with lukewarm water for the first 72 hours after the procedure. You can also bathe with soaps that don’t contain harsh chemicals. These products can cause the skin to peel.
• Moisturize and hydrate – Hydrating the skin can reduce irritation as it heals. You should also drink lots of water to help with the recovery.
• Avoid irritants – Most people tend to cover up the tattoo using concealer and other makeup products. However, it can irritate the skin and clog its pores while recovery from the treatment is underway.
• Protect it from the sun – As much as possible, avoid direct sunlight within the first 72 hours after the procedure. But if stepping outside is necessary, make sure to apply sunscreen with SPF25 or higher.

Try Microneedling Tattoo Removal at Ethos Spa

Have you decided to remove a tattoo? Here at Ethos Spa, we offer high-end laser technology that can be paired with micro-needling to undo permanent tats safely and effectively.

You can contact us at 908-273-5400 or through our email address so we can get started on removing your tats right away!

Learn more: How Can I Remove My Permanent Tattoo Without Laser?

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