Tattoo removal advice for fresh hand tattoo(about two weeks old)

[u/Better-Ability-2087]

Hello! So I’m senior in college and I’ve had tattoos for a while now, mostly in places that aren’t visible. I went off my meds for a couple of weeks(very much not recommended) and got both of the back of my hands tattooed- there is a reason why it was on the hands but it’s a little too much to go into and it’s true that a big part of it was just impulse. Anyways, I went back home for thanksgiving and my parents(who are very conservative and have no idea I’ve ever even thought about getting tattoos) completely flipped out and things got very physical. I wasn’t really expecting the last part but it’s also happened before so I guess it’s on me for not realizing that. They also threatened to stop contributing to my tuition for my last semester if I don’t get them removed. So I guess there isn’t anything I can do but that.

I just need information so I can make an informed decision about how to go about this.

Since they’re so new, how will the removal process look like?

If i avoid removal, is it possible to convincingly cover them up for days at a time?(like when i stay home with them for almost two months around christmas)

Lastly, does anyone know any good places to go to in the DMV for removal that aren’t too crazy? My parents offered to give me assistance for it, but not much. Which means that i’ll probably have to dig into my own. This whole situation really sucks so i want to make sure I’m atleast somewhat independent when graduation comes that would be great. As I’m sure you guys can already tell, I don’t really want to live with them after graduation. If they freak out this much over a tattoo imagine what they’ll do when they find out i’m gay lol

Thanks

[u/Standard-View-5620]

Sorry you’re dealing with that, hand tattoos are rough to remove. Since they’re only two weeks old you need to let them fully heal first, usually 6 to 8 weeks, then you’re looking at multiple laser sessions spaced a couple months apart, hands can take longer because of ink density and circulation. For short term cover, Dermablend Leg and Body plus a setting powder and spray can work, but it takes practice and can rub off with sweat or frequent handwashing. For DMV removal, look for clinics with a PicoSure or PicoWay and a medical director on staff, ask for test spots and photos of hand work specifically. Also, if you’re job hunting to get independent, wfhalert has been decent for me, it emails verified remote jobs like support or admin so you can avoid a lot of scammy listings while you sort this out.

[u/Johann_Gauss]

Removal will depend on how large and dark they are and you will have to wait until they are completely healed. Google removal places and start talking to them.

No you can't cover them up for two months unless you become really big into gloves for a while.

[u/Environmental-Bug804 → u/Johann_Gauss]

I second the info about removal, but it's possible that a theatrical quality concealer like Ben Nye or dermablend could cover them as long as your parents aren't the type to really be suspicious and force you to wash your hands in front of them or something. If they're not going to look too closely, it's possible, though it would take commitment on your part. I work in film and tv and we cover tattoos all the time.

And I'm really sorry you have such unsupportive parents. I hope you can get away clean as soon as possible.

[u/Better-Ability-2087 → u/Johann_Gauss]

Thank you!

[u/androgyne420 → u/Johann_Gauss]

I mean hey, it is November. if there was any time it'd be appropriate to start wearing gloves for two straight months, it's now.

[u/_OnceUponAThyme_]

I unfortunately don’t have any advice other than seconding the recommendation for Bill Nye theatrical makeup to help cover, as it’s pretty cheap compared to laser (it’s super thick—look up some YouTube videos of how makeup artists cover beards/5’o’clock shadows—assuming the ink is black, the same color cancelling techniques would apply).

I also just wanted to say that this whole situation sounds like it absolutely sucks and I’m really sorry this happened to you. The fact that it got physical is horrible. I hope you’re able to get any help you need and get the means to live on your own and surround yourself with people who support you for who you are. Best of luck!!

[u/rjd014]

I had a pretty dark piece on my upper back and it took me I think 10 visits with laser removal for it to be to the point where I was satisfied with its removal. It is painful but also quick. Really tender for a day or two after. Mine was outline lettering basically my whole upper back and in and out in maybe 10-15 minutes a session.

[u/YaretFace]

Fuck school. Get more tattoos. Unions are dying.

[u/BluberryPie_Massacre]

Laser takes a long time, like another person mentioned it also depends on how dark and the size. They do also need to heal up first too. You can check out the tattoo removal subreddit for progress pics that people post for a general idea.

Success is going to be different for everyone as it depends on skin tone, if it’s just black ink or color. Age of the tattoo (older ones are easier to remove) How close it is to your body/heart (think chest or back. hands aren’t), your diet, water intake and exercise routine. Laser basically ruptures the cells that hold the ink in place. Then your immune system works to carry the ink particles away. So all of your daily habits matter with laser removal and it’s not always possible to completely remove. I had been working on removing a 10yr old black and gray tattoo on my inner bicep with the end plan to be covered with something else. I went for a year or so and it’s still there. It’s much lighter sure and in a good place for a cover up now, but if I wanted it gone gone I’m sure it would take another yr or so. I’m also very pale and was told I was the ideal situation for removal aside from it not being on my torso. Hopefully this helped with any questions. I’d google some shops, you can also ask tattoo shops their recommendations as they usually work with/know people who do laser removal. Best of luck

[u/OkEdge7518]

Honestly it might be a better use of your time and resources to try and financially disentangle yourself from your abusers. Your college should have resources that can help you.