Lactic acid is one of the alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) that is produced naturally in the human body and is also found in some foods such as yogurt, sour milk and fermented vegetables. Due to its weak nature, this acid is used to exfoliate, lighten and improve skin texture and is found in many skin care products. Another use of lactic acid is to remove superficial and semi-permanent tattoos. Since the pigments of surface tattoos are located in the upper layers of the skin, they are easier to remove than permanent tattoos. Lactic acid is actually a minimally invasive way to remove these types of tattoos.
This combination causes the gradual removal of pigments from the skin and eventually removes the tattoo. The advantage of lactic acid compared to invasive methods such as laser is less pain and damage to the skin tissue. However, you should know that incorrect or excessive use can cause skin irritation, inflammation or burns. Therefore, it is recommended to use it under the supervision of a dermatologist.
How does lactic acid remove tattoos?
Due to its exfoliating properties, lactic acid is widely used in cosmetics and skin care industries. is used. The mechanism of action of lactic acid in tattoo removal is based on stimulating the skin to gradually regenerate and remove tattoo pigments. After applying on the tattoo, lactic acid penetrates the upper layers of the skin and loosens the connection between the dead skin cells (keratinocytes), which causes gentle and gradual exfoliation of the skin. Therefore, the tattoo ink that is near the surface of the skin is removed from the skin by peeling. Lactic acid also causes a mild, controlled inflammation at the site, which stimulates the body's immune system to break down or eliminate the pigment particles. By repeating these treatments in specific time intervals, the tattoo will gradually fade and eventually fade.
What are the disadvantages of lactic acid for tattoo removal?
Although lactic acid is a relatively mild method for removing surface tattoos, but Like any other method, it has disadvantages that you should be aware of. First, lactic acid only affects the superficial layers of the skin (epidermis), so it does not have much effect on professional and deep tattoos.
This method gradually removes tattoos, so it requires several sessions with specific time intervals. In fact, it may take months for the tattoo to fade or be removed.
Also note that improper use or high concentration of lactic acid can cause skin irritation and inflammation. There is even a risk of chemical burns, wounds and scars. In some cases, the skin changes color, which will make the skin color uneven.
Read:How many sessions does lactic acid remove a tattoo?
The number of sessions needed to remove a tattoo with lactic acid depends on several factors, including the age of the tattoo, the depth of the tattoo, the type of skin, the color of the tattoo, and also the body's response to the treatment. In general, it can be said that you need 4 to 8 treatment sessions, which are done at intervals of 2 to 4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lactic acid effective for all types of tattoos?
No, lactic acid is only effective for superficial or semi-permanent tattoos such as microblading, eyebrow or eyeliner tattoos.
Can this method be used at home?
No, home use of lactic acid without accurate knowledge of the proper concentration and depth of the tattoo is not recommended because it can lead to burns, inflammation or scarring.
Are the results permanent?
Yes, in If the tattoo is completely removed with lactic acid, the result will be permanent.
Does it hurt to use lactic acid to remove a tattoo?
During the treatment with lactic acid, depending on the concentration used, you may feel burning, itching or mild warmth in the treated area, but the pain is real. No.
Is it possible to tattoo again in the same place after the tattoo is removed?
Yes, you must wait until the skin is completely healed and no signs of inflammation remain. Usually, 6 to 8 weeks after the last session, the skin is completely healed.
