Methods and systems are disclosed for tattoo removal from a subject by exposing tattoo ink particles trapped within the dermis to electrical energy while activating a kinetic applicator that causes an active tip of an electrode applying the electrical energy to move within the dermis, whereby the tattoo will be degraded by the combined application of energy and tip movement. The tattoo removal method and system can be used to remove the tattoo from the skin of the subject being treated. In addition, the method and system described allows for the extraction of the tattoo ink particles, which may have toxic properties, from the subject's body.