A number of people in the medical field have indicated that about half their patients who have tattoos are now trying to determine the best way to get rid of them. Easier said than done, it’s becoming quite clear.

Emily Messner of the Washington Post took an in-depth look at some of the dangers and problems of getting rid of such “body decor.” The possible complications of the process are not encouraging.

There are older techniques such as dermabrasion and salabrasion (salt treatment) and, for the most part, these are the same techniques used by Egyptians some 5,000 years ago. Laser removal is considered the safest and least painful approach, but that can be costly and time-consuming.

Often it takes six to eight treatments for laser elimination, and these sessions can run from $100 to $400 per sitting. Writes Messner:

“A large or complex tattoo, or one where the ink is deep, may require more visits. These sessions may each last only a few minutes, but weeks of healing must follow, meaning the whole process can take six months or more.

Where do you find experienced medical people? Would you prefer some store-front or back-alley operator to get this done? Answers Messner:

“Even when you’re under the best care, laser treatments can result in scarring, skin texture changes or incomplete removal. And it’s probably going to hurt about as much as getting the tattoo did.”

There are topical creams, localized injections and other ways to ease the riddance of a tattoo. But the whole procedure is difficult.

A tattoo, big or little, can be painful when applied but perhaps not as painful as later regrets over a tattooing decision.

When in doubt, don’t, advise doctors aware of the health perils associated with improper application and removal.

In other words, the best way to get rid of a tattoo is not to get one in the first place.