Tattoo Removal Proves Painful and Costly Process

Laser treatments can take months and cause skin damage, experts warn

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Removing tattoos is a long, painful, and expensive process that can be riskier than getting the tattoo in the first place. Experts say the laser treatments required to break down the tattoo ink can cause skin damage, scarring, and other complications, especially for those with certain health conditions. The process can take 8-12 treatments or more, with each session costing hundreds of dollars.

Why it matters

As tattoos have become more popular, with over 30% of Americans having at least one, the demand for removal has also grown. However, many people are unaware of the challenges and risks involved in the removal process, which can deter them from getting tattoos they may later regret.

The details

The tattoo removal process uses a Q-switching laser that concentrates light energy into intense short bursts, breaking down the tattoo ink so it can be absorbed by the body. This is extremely painful, described as feeling like a "rubber band being snapped on your skin with hot bacon grease." Removal can take multiple sessions over several months, with the skin left temporarily lighter or scarred. Certain health conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders can make the process riskier.

  • The oldest known tattoos were found on remains of a Neolithic man who lived in the Italian Alps around 3,000 B.C.
  • Tattoo removal using lasers became more common in the 1960s.

The players

Ryan Wright

A registered nurse and owner of Ink Blasters Precision Laser Tattoo Removal in Livonia, Michigan.

Jaime Howard

The owner of Chroma Tattoo Studio & Laser Tattoo Removal in Brighton, Michigan.

Tracy Herrmann

A 54-year-old from Plymouth, Michigan who is in the process of getting four tattoos removed.

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What they’re saying

“It's very painful. Nine out of 10. It kind of feels like a rubber band being snapped on your skin with hot bacon grease.”

— Ryan Wright, Registered nurse and owner of Ink Blasters Precision Laser Tattoo Removal (milwaukeeindependent.com)

“Oh gosh, it's a 10 when you're getting it done. It's pretty intense. It's doable. I know price is sometimes an issue, but it's worth it.”

— Tracy Herrmann (milwaukeeindependent.com)

“You get through it. A couple of days later you're still feeling the sunburn, but it's OK. If you want it bad enough, you'll take it off because that's what you want.”

— Jaime Howard, Owner of Chroma Tattoo Studio & Laser Tattoo Removal (milwaukeeindependent.com)

What’s next

Herrmann will need to undergo several more laser removal sessions to fully remove the four tattoos she is having removed.

The takeaway

Tattoo removal is a lengthy, painful, and expensive process that can also carry risks of skin damage and complications, especially for those with certain health conditions. This highlights the importance of carefully considering tattoo decisions, as removing them later may prove more difficult than anticipated.