Before deciding to have any beauty treatment, you should ensure that you have researched it. In this blog, we’re answering the question, can you get laser hair removal on a tattoo?
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal involves using a handheld device to remove hair from the skin. The device uses a concentrated beam with excessive heat production to disrupt hair follicles and reduce future hair growth. This means that it’s common for people to experience less hair growth after having the treatment multiple times.
The treatment has become very popular in recent years and can be used in many places. The most common areas for treatment include the legs, arms, face, chest, underarms and bikini line.
Before you start having a new beauty treatment, you must ensure that you are fully aware of all the facts. A consultation should be organised by your chosen clinic before you undergo laser hair removal.
When choosing a clinic, make sure that you feel comfortable and that they have the correct qualifications to complete the treatment. Take a look at their reviews and portfolio if you can. We offer a fantastic hair removal service for those wanting hair-free skin safely.
What are the benefits of laser hair removal?
There are so many benefits of having laser hair removal.
- Leads to smoother skin
- Means that the hair re-growth is usually thinner and may even stop altogether
- Reduces the risks of ingrown hairs
- Fast procedure to remove unwanted hair
- Saves money in the long run
- Better option for the environment with much less waste than other hair removal methods
- Available for use on many areas of the body
- Suitable for most people
All of these benefits can be achieved with regular laser hair removal treatments. You may find that after multiple treatments, you don’t need to visit as often, as the hair growth has reduced. You can chat with your beauty therapist about your appointment schedule.
Can you get laser hair removal on tattoos?
While laser hair removal can be used on many areas of the body, it is not recommended to be used on tattoos. The main reason for this is that the laser can interact with the tattoo ink. We’ll get on to the consequences of that later in the blog.
If you plan on having a laser hair removal treatment on an area with a tattoo, you will need to discuss this with your practitioner. Some practitioners may not be able to accommodate this.
Laser hair removal will need to be performed very carefully around the tattoo area. It will require very precise techniques.
So, can you get laser hair removal over tattoos? Laser hair removal can be used on the surrounding area of your tattoo but should not be used over your tattoo. Speak to your practitioner about this, and they can offer you the best advice.
Bear in mind that if you have a tattoo on your wrist and you want laser removal under your armpits, you shouldn’t encounter any issues. However, if you have a tattoo on your chest and are looking to have the treatment there, some areas may not be possible.
Of course, it does depend on the size of your tattoo as well. It’s always best to discuss this with your practitioner before they perform laser hair removal. Laser hair removal is not the same as laser tattoo removal.
Does laser hair removal affect tattoos?
Yes, it is recommended to avoid tattooed areas when having laser hair removal. There are many things you may experience as a result of having the treatment on this inked area. Here are just some.
Ink distortion
Hair removal lasers work by absorbing dark pigment in the skin. Therefore, the laser can attract the ink used in your tattoo. This can then lead to the ink and tattoo becoming distorted, which is not what you want for your body art.
Ink fading
Similar to the above point, where laser attracts darker pigment, this can lead to the tattoo colours fading. It’s generally not worth the risk when you’ve likely spent a lot of time and money on getting your tattoos perfect.
Skin damage
In some cases, laser hair removal over tattoos can lead to skin damage. You may experience burns or blisters around the area. This is one of the main reasons why it’s best to avoid laser hair removal over tattoos.
So, what can I do about a laser hair removal treatment with tattoos?
If you have tattoos and you still want to have laser hair removal, some clinics may be able to create a template to sit over your tattoo. This will help to protect it during the laser treatment. Be aware that some clinicians still may not want to take the risk.
It’s best to avoid the area if possible. However, remember that it’s only best to avoid the actual tattoo area. If you have a tattoo near the area that is being lasered, your practitioner will be able to let you know the best practices and how it will be dealt with.
If laser hair removal is something you are interested in, but you have tattoos, it’s always worth booking a consultation with an expert to discuss your options. Laser hair removal is one of the best hair removal methods, and it has so many fantastic benefits.
We hope this blog has helped answer the question: Can I have laser hair removal on a tattoo? Contact us for all of your laser hair removal needs!
