The options for tattoo removal outside of modern lasers are limited. They are also not as effective, or come with side-effects, such as scarring. These can include: Tattoo removal cream (though, these are not likely to be effective). Skin salabrasion or dermabrasion (this is painful, and leaves a mark). Glycolic acid injections (these leave a mark, and are not very effective). Totally removing the skin where the tattoo is (this is not practical for large areas, and will create a scar). Laser tattoo removal, however, is able to target just the ink of the tattoo. It is designed to leave your skin in-tact (with the exception of some minimal, healable blistering). This is the only type of Vancouver tattoo removal we offer at our clinic (in Surrey).