In the past, older generations often warned against getting tattoos, saying they were permanent decisions that could lead to regret. However, with today’s technology, tattoo removal has become a viable option. While the process can be painful and may leave some scars, it offers a way to remove unwanted ink. This is the path that 35-year-old Leandro De Souza has chosen, as he undergoes laser treatments to erase nearly 20 years of tattoos.
Leandro De Souza, a Brazilian native and father, found himself on a difficult path after his divorce nearly a decade ago. The emotional turmoil led him to a lifestyle of partying, during which he accumulated over 170 tattoos. His first tattoo came at the age of 13, driven by the popular culture of the time. “The first ones were very much about the idolatry of the time,” De Souza recalls. Recently, however, his life has taken a new direction, inspired by his newfound faith in Evangelical Christianity. This spiritual journey has motivated him to start the process of removing his tattoos.
Leandro’s early tattoos were inspired by his favorite bands like Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses, and Metallica. However, most of his ink came during a period of deep personal struggle following his divorce. During this time, he also experimented with drugs such as LSD, alcohol, and ecstasy, further complicating his life.
The decision to remove his tattoos marks a significant turning point. De Souza reflects on his past, stating, “I couldn’t stand the life I was living anymore. I was an attraction at events I attended, and it felt like a circus animal.” This realization came during a visit to a shelter, nearly a decade after his divorce, where he began to turn his life around. A pivotal moment occurred when a woman at the shelter started to evangelize him, sparking his journey towards recovery and faith.
It has been two years since De Souza embarked on his journey to remove his tattoos. The process is lengthy, especially given the number of tattoos he has, but it is a crucial part of his transformation. Leandro now dedicates his time to speaking with parents and children in prisons and homes, sharing his experiences and the lessons he has learned.
His tattoo removal is being assisted by a tattoo studio in Franco da Rocha, São Paulo, which was inspired by Leandro’s story of change. He has been clean from alcohol for three years and has abstained from tobacco and other substances for a year. With six more sessions to go, his progress is a testament to his commitment to a new life.
For many, tattoos are a form of self-expression, turning their bodies into a canvas. However, as people grow and change, some may regret their tattoo choices. Thankfully, modern technology offers several options for tattoo removal, although each comes with potential side effects like tenderness, skin irritation, and scarring.
Methods of Tattoo Removal
One common method is laser tattoo removal, which uses lasers to break down the ink particles in the skin, making it easier for the body’s immune system to remove them. Sessions are typically spaced about three months apart and can last between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the tattoo. While effective, this method can cause side effects ranging from mild irritation to painful blisters.
Another option is surgical excision, where a surgeon removes the tattooed skin and stitches the remaining skin together. This method is generally reserved for small tattoos due to the invasive nature of the procedure.
Other methods include dermabrasion and chemical peels, which remove the outer layers of skin but can cause severe sensitivity, especially to sunlight. Tattoo removal creams are also available, but they are often discouraged by medical professionals due to their low effectiveness and potential to damage the skin.
Is Tattoo Removal Right for You?
Tattoo removal is possible for anyone, but there are important considerations. The process requires time and multiple sessions because tattoos are applied in layers, and each layer must be carefully removed to avoid severe skin damage. Additionally, certain ink colors, like black and blue, are easier to remove than others, such as red, which is more resistant to treatment.
An Alternative to Removal
For those who are unsure about removing their tattoos, another option is to have them modified or covered with new artwork. This approach can be more satisfying and less time-consuming, particularly if the desire for change is based on personal growth rather than necessity.
Leandro De Souza’s journey from a life of turmoil to one of faith and renewal is inspiring. His decision to remove his tattoos symbolizes his commitment to a new path, one where he hopes to help others who are facing similar struggles. As tattoo removal technology continues to advance, it offers individuals like Leandro the opportunity to redefine themselves and start anew.
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