How laser tattoo removal works
16,335,462 Views
1,268 Questions Answered
Best of Web
Let’s Begin…
SmarterEveryDay explains the laser removal process for tattoos. As it turns out, the painful, complicated procedure surprisingly involves physics, biology and chemistry.
Additional Resources for you to Explore
Watch these recommended TED-Ed Lessons
What makes tattoos permanent?
The earliest recorded tattoo was found on a Peruvian mummy in 6,000 BC. That’s some old ink! And considering humans lose roughly 40,000 skin cells per hour, how do these markings last? Claudia Aguirre details the different methods, machines and macrophages (you’ll see) that go into making tattoos stand the test of time.
The history of tattoos
If you have a tattoo, you’re part of a rich cultural history that dates back at least 8,000 years. Where did this practice of body modification come from, and how has its function changed over time? Addison Anderson tracks the history of getting inked.
Additional references
Laser technology is making tattoo removal easier than ever read - Smithsonian
Thanks to recent advances, the tattoo removal business has quadrupled in the last decade.
Tattooing close up (in slow motion) - YouTube
SmarterEveryDay explains how tattooing works in slow motion.
What makes tattoos permanent?
The earliest recorded tattoo was found on a Peruvian mummy in 6,000 BC. That’s some old ink! And considering humans lose roughly 40,000 skin cells per hour, how do these markings last? Claudia Aguirre details the different methods, machines and macrophages (you’ll see) that go into making tattoos stand the test of time.
The history of tattoos
If you have a tattoo, you’re part of a rich cultural history that dates back at least 8,000 years. Where did this practice of body modification come from, and how has its function changed over time? Addison Anderson tracks the history of getting inked.
Additional references
Laser technology is making tattoo removal easier than ever read - Smithsonian
Thanks to recent advances, the tattoo removal business has quadrupled in the last decade.
Tattooing close up (in slow motion) - YouTube
SmarterEveryDay explains how tattooing works in slow motion.
About TED-Ed Best of Web
TED-Ed Best of Web are exceptional, user-created lessons that are carefully selected by volunteer teachers and TED-Ed staff.
Meet The Creators
- Video created by SmarterEveryDay
- Lesson Plan created by Cynthia Silva
