The practice of tattooing is nothing new, having originated centuries ago and used by many cultures for religious and status marking, among other uses. The process has evolved over time to become more of a hobby or means of self expression. With the increased popularity of tattoos has come a lucrative new removal market for those experiencing “tattoo regret.

While there are many costly surgical procedures available for the removal of unwanted body art, such as laser and Intense Pulsed Light treatment, the latest phenomenon in ink removal is the do-it-yourself at home cream tattoo removal. Currently, several tattoo removal balm products dominate the market, including the popular products Wrecking Balm, Tattoo Erase and TatBGone. Tattoo removal balms often differ in active ingredients, but the dominant chemical in the skin ink removal industry is hydroquinone, which disrupts the formation of melanin in the skin and is often used for cosmetic skin bleaching and to reduce the appearance of freckles and age spots. Tattoo removal creams usually contain a two percent concentration of the chemical. A ban on hydroquinone was proposed by the FDA in 2006 under suspicion that the chemical may cause cancer, and it has already been banned in many counties worldwide.

Instructions on how to use the products vary, requiring different frequency and lengths of use, as well as different methods of application. Tattoo removal balm manufacturers promise a gradual reduction in the appearance of unwanted body art with very little or no pain. Product reviews for the most popular removal products generally report that consumers had varied results, but experienced minor stinging at worst when the products were used as directed.

Doc Wilson’s Wrecking Balm No. 3, or simply Wrecking Balm, is the most recent craze in at-home tattoo removal. What makes this product unique is that it uses a three-step process involving a medical dermal device that was recently approved by the FDA. The product works by breaking down ink-injected skin and relies on the skin’s natural healing and regeneration process. Active ingredients in the product include salicylic acid and phyllanthus emblica fruit, also known as Indian Gooseberry.

Consumers can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to over $300 for these products, which are easily found and purchased by phone or online.