LASER HAIR REMOVAL AND TATTOOS (WHAT TO KNOW) (2024)

(Last Updated On: 27th March 2023)

Traditional methods of hair removal can often be time-consuming. Waxing, shaving, threading, and using depilatory creams take up much time and energy, and many only end up with temporary results.

However, today’s technology offers a better alternative that allows permanently smooth, hair-free skin and less pain — laser hair removal.

But what about your beloved Tattoo?

People who get tattoos often take great pride in them and want to keep the colour as vibrant as it was in the first weeks.

Understandably, if you are a tattooed individual, you might be wary of getting a laser hair removal procedure.

As you know, tattoos are typically removed via laser, so it’s reasonable to assume that laser hair removal treatments may also damage your Tattoo.

We’re here to help answer your questions about laser hair removal and tattoos!

Carry on reading to learn more about laser hair removal and tattoos.

FIRST: HOW DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORK?

Laser hair removal is a procedure that utilises a concentrated beam of light. This laser light damages your hair follicles, minimising and delaying future hair growth. You must undergo at least six treatments (and the odd maintenance treatment down the line) to enjoy its full results.

Still, after your sessions, you no longer have to worry about regular hair removal and regrowth!

For more details, read our post on how laser hair removal works.

NEXT, DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORK FOR EVERYONE?

People with light skin and dark hair are ideal for laser hair removal.

Keep in mind that it’s not recommended for areas on the body with tattoos. Since the laser is used on the skin, it gets attracted to the ink.

It may lead to damaging consequences through excessive heat production.

People with tattoos can experience burns, blisters, fading, or even distortion of their body art. If you want to take the risk, practitioners must approach the area cautiously and avoid any direct reaction to the ink.

DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORK THE SAME AS LASER TATTOO REMOVAL?

Quick answer: no. The two treatments are distinct and involve lasers of varying intensities.

Although the laser used in hair removal treatments differs from those used in tattoo removals, it can still impact the ink. Even it cannot be used for the same purpose.

If you want to go through laser tattoo and hair removal, you must first undergo tattoo removal treatments. Once your skin has healed, and the Tattoo is considerably gone, you can only proceed with your hair removal treatments.

We recommend reading that post on the Popular Science website for a detailed explanation of how tattoos work.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO GET LASER HAIR REMOVAL WITHOUT DAMAGING THE TATTOO?

Yes, but the procedure is tricky.

The laser technician must make a template to cover the tattooed area, so it doesn’t come in contact with the laser. They will also ensure at least two to three centimetres of distance between the treated parts and the Tattoo. This protects the art and avoids the risk of incurring blisters.

I trust this answer. Will laser hair removal damage a tattoo question?

To be clear, if you have a tattoo on your arm, for example, and want your underarm hair removed, there are no issues. If you wish to have, hair removed in the same area as your Tattoo, a trained professional will not let the laser go directly over your Tattoo and ruin the Tattoo. Laser hair removal cannot be completed over the Tattoo without a template to cover it, and the laser must work around it!

CAN YOU GET A TATTOO AFTER LASER HAIR REMOVAL?

Yes, for sure. There are no issues with laser hair removal before getting a tattoo. Remember, your laser hair removal treatment takes 6-8 sessions, with a week or two between sessions. Therefore, it’s best to wait, or not, to get a tattoo in the same area as your hair removal treatment until your course of hair removal is completed.

WHAT HURTS MORE, LASER HAIR REMOVAL OR A TATTOO?

Pain or sensation from laser hair removal is often described as an elastic band snapping against the skin.

Compared to having a Tattoo, the pain difference is chalk and cheese. Getting a Tattoo is far more painful than laser hair removal.

But with both, it also depends on the area of the body where the pain and sensation are worse.

OUR CONCLUSION

Before pushing through with the treatment, however, know that you should consult with a trained and experienced hair removal expert so that they can assess your situation and customise an appropriate course of action before proceeding with the treatment.

Don’t make the mistake of going with amateurs or ill-skilled; you only increase your risk of burning skin, which cannot be re-inked afterwards.

Whatever you decide, you should only trust competent practitioners to ensure your Tattoo is taken care of and your hair is removed safely.

Here at CALVEO, we offer high-quality hair removal services with superior results that you can enjoy for years. We use clinically proven diode laser technology that is both comfortable and effective. Book a free consultation with us today.