How Tattoo Removal Balm Works

The practice of tattooing is nothing new, having originated centuries ago and used by many cultures for religious and status marking, among other uses. The process has evolved over time to become more of a hobby or means of self expression. With the increased popularity of tattoos has come a lucrative new removal market for those experiencing “tattoo regret.

Surgical procedures for the removal of tattoos, including laser therapy and Intense Pulsed Light treatment, among others, were popular in recent years but have given way to the newest tattoo removal phenomenon, do-it-yourself, at home removal using creams. The tattoo removal balm market is currently dominated by Wrecking Balm, TatBGone and Tattoo Erase, three of many products currently available. While tattoo removal balms contain an array of primary active ingredients, hydroquinone has been the dominant chemical in the at-home tattoo removal market. The chemical works by decreasing melanin production in the skin, and is commonly used cosmetically for skin bleaching, mainly for the reduction of freckles and age spots. Tattoo removal balms with hydroquinone usually contain about a two percent concentration of the controversial chemical. The FDA proposed a possible ban on hydroquinone in the United States in 2006, and it has been banned in several counties worldwide due to the suspicion that it may have a pose a slight cancer risk.

Minor differences between many of the products exist, including method, frequency and duration of use, but tattoo removal balm manufacturers all make the same basic guarantee: to lighten the tattoo over a gradual period of time without causing much pain. Consumer reviews for these body art removal creams provide a general consensus that when used as directed, the creams caused very little or no discomfort.

Doc Wilson’s Wrecking Balm No. 3, or simply Wrecking Balm, is the most recent craze in at-home tattoo removal. What makes this product unique is that it uses a three-step process involving a medical dermal device that was recently approved by the FDA. The product works by breaking down ink-injected skin and relies on the skin’s natural healing and regeneration process. Active ingredients in the product include salicylic acid and phyllanthus emblica fruit, also known as Indian Gooseberry.

Prices on home tattoo removal products vary greatly, and consumers can expect to shell out as little as $50 or as much as $300. Most can easily be purchased online or by phone.