Tattoos are expected to be permanent, but that doesn’t stop people from regretting their decisions. In fact, a Harris Poll found that 23% of Americans with tattoos have at least one that they’re dissatisfied with or want to get rid of. To help them out, dermatologists and cosmetic surgery professionals are offering safe and effective methods for removing unwanted body art.

The most common method health care professionals use to remove tattoos is laser therapy, in which a high-intensity light shatters the ink particles. The body then naturally clears the fragments and the tattoo fades over time. Other techniques for fading or removing tattoos include surgical excision, dermabrasion and chemical peels. However, these are more invasive and less commonly performed than laser treatments.

Tattoo removal can be a long process and patients should expect it to take a year or more for their bodies to eliminate all the ink. That’s why it’s important for patients to have realistic expectations and discuss these with their doctors before starting treatment.

Patients should also be aware that the success of a tattoo removal procedure depends on several factors, including skin color, age and location. Darker tattoos are generally more difficult to treat than lighter ones and are less likely to fade or completely remove, due to the way their pigment absorbs laser energy. Tattoos that are located on areas of the body with more blood flow—like the face or fingers—also tend to take longer to remove than others.

It’s also essential for patients to follow their professional’s instructions for post-treatment care, such as applying an antibiotic ointment and keeping the area covered with loose, comfortable clothing. Exposing the treated area to the sun can worsen inflammation, swelling and blistering. Additionally, rubbing or scratching the treatment area can lead to infection and scarring.

Those who are considering tattoo removal should first consult with a dermatologist or skin surgery center that offers this service and request a consultation with an experienced doctor. They should be able to evaluate the patient and provide a recommendation for the best method to remove the tattoo.

In addition to these recommendations, tattoo removal specialists should be able to answer questions about the cost and effectiveness of different treatment options. They should also be able to explain how the treatment works, as well as any risks or side effects that may arise during or after the procedure.

Finally, tattoo removal experts should be sensitive to the fact that a patient’s reasons for wanting to remove their ink can be personal. It’s not unusual for individuals to change their minds about tattoo designs, and it’s important for a practitioner to be understanding of this. They should always ask which tattoo a patient wants to have removed and never judge them for their decisions.