Why Laser Hair Removal and Tattoos Do Not Go Together
Why Laser Hair Removal and Tattoos Do Not Go Together
1. Laser Targets Pigment: Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment (melanin) in hair follicles. Tattoos also contain pigments, which can confuse the laser and lead to potential burns or discoloration.
2. Risk of Skin Damage: The laser can cause the tattooed area to blister, burn, or scar, especially if the tattoo is dark and large.
3. Laser May Fade the Tattoo: The laser energy can break down tattoo ink, leading to fading or distortion of the design over time.
4. Pain and Discomfort: The laser can cause more pain when used over a tattooed area because the skin becomes more sensitive and prone to irritation.
5. Alternative Areas: If you have tattoos, it’s safer to avoid laser hair removal on or near the inked area. Consider alternative hair removal methods.
Introduction: Why laser hair removal and tattoos don’t mix
Have you ever wondered if you can zap away unwanted hair over your favorite tattoo?
As aesthetic professionals with years of experience, we’ve encountered this question countless times from our customers at Wellaholic. The short answer is no – laser hair removal and tattoos simply don’t mix well. We’ve seen the consequences of attempting this combination, both at Wellaholic and during Serene’s time at Laser Clinics Australia.
In this article, we’ll explain why these two popular treatments clash and what you need to know to keep your skin and ink safe. Our goal is to give you the facts so you can make smart choices about your beauty routines.
Laser hair removal affects tattoos like a typical tattoo removal session
Lately, laser hair removal has been a go-to for women wanting to get rid of unwanted hair. It’s usually safe and works well. But, it’s good to know about a few possible side effects.
One of these is that laser hair removal can destabilize tattoo ink, potentially leading to color changes or even worse. If you are considering laser hair removal as an option for your tattoos, it is important to research the risks involved so that you can make an informed decision.
As we just learned, getting laser hair removal over your tattoos could lead to some serious damage including discoloring your tattoo. Since laser hair removal targets the pigments, it can also reduce the color in your tattoo, or even worse, cause the pigment to scatter.
“Tattoos and laser hair removal don’t mix – it’s best to keep them separate for the sake of your skin!”
Tattoos can also cause skin irritation with laser hair removal treatment
Tattoos are created by injecting ink into the skin. According to Dr. Randeep Grewal, a dermatology expert at the University of Missouri, this ink often contains heavy metals such as mercury and lead. These metals are used to give the ink its color and permanence.
Now, when it comes to removing tattoos, one of the most common methods is laser treatment. The laser works by emitting a highly concentrated beam of light that breaks down the tattoo ink into tiny fragments, which are then eliminated by the body’s immune system. However, when these heavy metals in the tattoo ink are hit by the laser light, they can react and potentially harm your skin.
Lasers on metal-laden skin risk irritation, discoloration, cancer
This reaction can lead to various skin issues. It might cause irritation, which is a general term for discomfort and inflammation of the skin. It could also lead to lasting pigment changes, meaning the color of your skin in the treated area might change permanently. In some cases, the reaction between the laser light and the heavy metals could even increase the risk of skin cancer.
The heat from laser treatment can also cause tattoos to spread
Lasers have become a staple in the medical field, widely used for a variety of treatments due to their precision and effectiveness. They work by emitting a concentrated beam of light that can target specific areas or conditions. However, like any medical procedure, the use of lasers is not without potential side effects.
One such unintended consequence is the spreading of tattoos. Tattoos are essentially composed of numerous tiny particles of ink that are embedded in the skin. These particles are what give the tattoo its colour and form.
Laser tattoo removal can spread ink, enlarging or blurring designs
When a laser is used in an attempt to remove a tattoo, it targets these ink particles, breaking them down so that they can be eliminated by the body’s immune system. However, in the process of targeting and breaking down the ink particles of the tattoo, the laser can also affect smaller, nearby particles of ink that were not initially part of the targeted area. This can result in the spreading of the tattoo, causing it to appear larger or more diffuse than it was prior to the laser treatment.
Conclusion: Why laser hair removal and tattoos don’t mix well
So here’s the deal: laser hair removal and tattoos are a bad combo. They can really mess up each other. Tattoos might scar or change color where you get them. And laser hair removal? It can lead to burns and blisters. Thinking about a tattoo? Best to wait until you’re done with your laser hair removal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get laser hair removal over a tattoo?
No, it is not recommended to perform laser hair removal directly over a tattoo. Laser hair removal cannot distinguish between pigment in the hair follicle and pigment in the tattoo ink, which may cause damage to the tattoo.
How does laser hair removal affect tattoos?
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicles, while tattoos are made up of ink pigments. When the laser is used, it may impact the tattoo and affect its appearance or cause potential damage.
Is it safe to get laser hair removal around a tattoo?
While it is generally safe to perform laser hair removal around a tattoo, there is still a risk that the laser may unintentionally target the pigment in the tattoo ink. It is recommended to consult with a laser technician to discuss the potential risks and precautions.
Can laser hair removal ruin a tattoo?
Although laser hair removal is not intended to directly damage tattoos, there is a possibility that it may impact the appearance of the tattoo due to the heat generated by the laser. It is important to consider this risk before undergoing laser hair removal treatments.
Can I get laser hair removal if I want to get a tattoo?
If you are considering getting a tattoo in the future, it is advised to avoid laser hair removal in the area where you plan to have the tattoo. Laser hair removal can interfere with the tattooing process and may affect the final result.
How does laser hair removal work on the body hair surrounding a tattoo?
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicles, so it can effectively remove unwanted body hair in the areas surrounding a tattoo. However, caution should be exercised to avoid direct contact with the tattoo itself.
Willie Chan, Founder (LinkedIn)
Willie Chan is the visionary founder and managing director of Wellaholic, a leading aesthetic chain with eight outlets across Singapore. With over a decade of experience in the beauty and wellness industry, Willie has established himself as a trusted expert in laser hair removal and other aesthetic treatments. He holds a prestigious CIDESCO Diploma in Aesthetics and a Beauty Therapy & Salon Management Certification (Level 3) from Brentwood College, UK. Willie’s passion for delivering top-notch, painless hair removal solutions has driven Wellaholic’s success and made it a go-to destination for those seeking smooth, hair-free skin in Singapore. His commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction ensures that Wellaholic remains at the forefront of the aesthetics industry.
Contact Willie at [email protected]
Serene Chiam, Aesthetic Director (LinkedIn)
Serene Chiam is the highly skilled Aesthetic Director at Wellaholic, Singapore’s premier aesthetic chain. With over a decade of expertise in the aesthetics industry, Serene brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role. She previously served as a Clinical Aesthetics Manager with Laser Clinics Australia, honing her skills in laser hair removal and other advanced treatments. Serene holds a CIDESCO certificate in skincare and a Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) from Torrens University, Australia. Her deep understanding of the latest aesthetic technologies and techniques ensures that Wellaholic’s clients receive the most effective, long-lasting hair removal results. Serene’s passion for helping others feel confident and beautiful shines through in her dedication to providing exceptional care and achieving optimal outcomes for every client.
Contact Serene at [email protected]
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