The number of people who want to remove tattoos due to discoloration, bleeding, or a change of mind is steadily increasing. As a result, many people start by comparing removal costs.
The problem is that this comparison often leads to choosing a place that is not a clinic, or a practitioner who is not a specialist. We have summarized what kind of results can occur from a procedure chosen simply because the price is low.
What to check before the price list
It is illegal to get or remove a tattoo anywhere other than a medical clinic. If you receive removal treatment at a shop to lower costs, the procedure itself is illegal.
A shop is not a place where a dermatology specialist performs procedures. This is why there is a higher chance of unsatisfactory results rather than satisfactory ones.
Only qualified individuals can handle lasers
Dermatology clinics that remove tattoos primarily use lasers. However, these lasers can only be used by professional medical personnel.
Behind cheap price lists, there are often unqualified practitioners and outdated treatment methods.
Shops with low prices are not only illegal but also use outdated treatment methods. Therefore, the following problems may remain after removal:
- Pigmentation after tattoo removal
- Scars after tattoo removal
When you put the two options side by side
| Check Item | Dermatology Medical Institution | Non-Medical Treatment Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal medical practice | Illegal |
| Practitioner | Dermatology specialist | Not a dermatology specialist |
| Laser Use Qualification | Only professional medical personnel can use | No qualification to use |
| Treatment Method | Performed after consultation and diagnosis | Outdated treatment methods |
| Potential Problems | Managed during the diagnosis process | Risk of pigmentation, scarring |
Even for the same tattoo, what remains can differ depending on where it is removed. That difference is not written on the price list.
Traces left by outdated treatment methods
Even if the name 'laser' is used, the results left on the skin can vary depending on the method of irradiation. If outdated treatment methods are used, pigmentation may return or scars may remain.
Removing a tattoo is more difficult to reverse than getting one. That's why the initial choice of where to go is important.
So, where should you get it removed?
Rather than receiving illegal treatment at a low-cost shop and getting unsatisfactory results, we recommend undergoing proper consultation and diagnosis by a dermatology specialist and proceeding with appropriate laser equipment.
How tattoo removal is performed is summarized in Tattoo Removal Treatment Guide. For specific devices, referring to R-Zero Pico-Frectat Tattoo Removal and Nd:YAG Tattoo Removal may be helpful.
If you are curious about the cost, you can easily ask via Chat Inquiry Now.
Authored · Medically Reviewed by Chief Director Lee Sang-joo (Dermatology Specialist) Graduated from Yonsei University College of Medicine · Ph.D. in Medicine, Yonsei University Graduate School of Medicine · Resident in Dermatology, Severance Hospital Currently Adjunct Professor, Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine · President of the Korean Dermatological Association in 2026 View Medical Staff Introduction
First Published 2025-01-31 · 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 by individual.