There are various methods to remove a tattoo at present. In earlier period laser treatment was used and it is still the best technique to remove tattoos without any scars. Previous to laser method was used, one or more of the below explained methods had to be used for taking away the tattoo. which were very painful and leave scars.

Dermabrasion

In this method the skin is being "sanded" with a wire brush or diamond fraise, a kind of sanding disc, to remove the surface layer of skin and as well as some parts of the Dermis, the skin layer where the tattoo is imbedded. This method leaves scars.

Salabrasion

A salt solution is used to remove the pigment of any scars. This method is less common.

Cryosurgery

In this method the skin area where the tattoo was placed is frozen before its removal.

Excision

this was the most common method followed to remove tattoo before laser surgery was introduced. In this technique the tattoo is removed with a scalpel and closes the wound over again with stitches.

Scarification

this involves removing the tattoo by an acid solution. This leaves a scar in the place of tattoo.

Camouflaging

this involves Injections with new pigments to form a new sample with skin-toned pigments is used to cover up the tattoo. The injected pigment does not look natural as they lack the skin's natural translucence.