Many tattoos that once looked cool when etched on the body become a source of regret over time. The number of people seeking to remove tattoos is increasing accordingly.
However, there are cases where people receive removal procedures at non-medical facilities or attempt self-removal at home. Due to the side effects resulting from such attempts, we frequently receive inquiries at our clinic. Therefore, we have compiled the reasons why tattoo removal should be performed at a dermatology clinic.
Tattoo removal shops are, in fact, illegal
With a little searching, you can find shops that perform tattoo removal in your vicinity.
However, tattoo removal performed at such places is illegal.
If you only consider the low cost and receive tattoo removal at an unauthorized shop rather than a medical institution, various problems may arise.
| Cause | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|
| Practitioner is not a medical professional | Lack of specialized knowledge and skills, leading to inadequate response in case of problems |
| Equipment or materials are inappropriate | Excessive skin damage or pigmentation may occur during the removal process |
| Use of chemical substances | Allergic or toxic reactions |
| Lack of proper hygiene measures | Increased risk of infection |
Methods for addressing residual pigmentation after removal are summarized in the Pico·Dual·Gold-Diamond Toning guide.
Case of deep second-degree burns
A woman suffered deep second-degree burns after receiving tattoo removal at a semi-permanent makeup shop.
Afterward, she received disinfection, burn treatment, and scar removal laser procedures at a dermatology clinic. However, since she knowingly visited a non-medical facility and chose the removal procedure, she did not receive appropriate punishment or compensation for damages.
Ultimately, it was an unfortunate case where tattoo removal and scar removal treatment were separate, costing more than double the original price.
If burns or scars have already formed, please refer to the Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar guide. You should receive tattoo removal from a board-certified dermatologist with proven safety.
Are PicoWay lasers sold on shopping malls the same equipment?
The second case involves people attempting self-tattoo removal at home. Nowadays, if you search shopping mall websites, you can find tattoo removal devices, sometimes called "PicoWay lasers." Since these devices can be easily purchased at very low prices, some people try to remove tattoos at home with them.
The PicoWay Laser equipment used in medical institutions is expensive, costing between 100 and 200 million won per unit. Can a device sold cheaply on a shopping mall have the same selectivity, stability, and output as the lasers used in dermatology clinics?
The principle of pigment exiting the body
Tattoo removal works by using a laser to destroy and fragment pigment particles injected into the dermis, allowing macrophages to engulf them and excrete them from the body.
- Finely fragmented particles are expelled through lymphatic vessels following cells.
- Through repeated treatments, the pigment remaining in the skin gradually disappears.
- To break down pigment into fine particles without damaging surrounding tissue, equipment with strong destructive power and selectivity is required.
The PicoWay Laser, known as an effective laser for tattoo removal, irradiates with high energy instantaneously, more than 1,000 times faster than conventional lasers. It can precisely and selectively break down only ink particles without damaging surrounding tissue. You can check the equipment configuration in the R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal guide.
What low-cost devices actually do
It is uncertain whether machines sold on shopping malls effectively react only to pigment. They often simply create wounds on the tattooed area to make it appear faded, causing severe damage to surrounding tissue.
You should not attempt self-tattoo removal with unverified devices. To maintain healthy skin, please remember that you should receive treatment at a dermatology clinic that uses equipment with verified safety and quality, and has experienced medical staff.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask via Chat now.
Erasing should be more cautious than etching
Tattoo removal is a treatment that should not be taken lightly. You should receive treatment at a clinic specializing in tattoo removal to ensure a satisfactory outcome.
The overall treatment flow can be found in the Tattoo Removal Treatment Guide.
If you need a consultation, please leave a message via chat
Authored and Medically Reviewed by Chief Director Dr. Sang-Joo Lee (Dermatologist) Graduated from Yonsei University College of Medicine · Ph.D. in Medicine, Yonsei University Graduate School of Medicine Resident in Dermatology at Severance Hospital · Current Adjunct Professor, Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine View Medical Staff Profile
First Published 2024-06-12 · Last Reviewed 2026-07-29
This article contains general medical information and does not substitute for individual diagnosis and treatment. Results and recovery progress may vary from person to person.