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Can you get laser hair removal on tattoos?

| A Comprehensive Guide

At Sparkle Lifestyle & MediSpa in Moncton, we frequently address concerns about laser hair removal over tattooed skin. It’s a common query with important implications for both safety and tattoo integrity. This guide explains why traditional hair removal lasers are not suitable for tattooed skin and introduces the PicoWay system for safe tattoo removal.


Can You Perform Laser Hair Removal Over Tattoos?

The short answer is no. Laser hair removal technologies, including IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), are not designed to differentiate between the pigment in hair follicles and the inks used in tattoos. Here’s what happens when laser hair removal is applied over tattoos:

  • Risk of Damage: The laser can cause the tattoo’s pigment to scatter, potentially distorting the design and color of the tattoo.
  • Health Risks: There is a high risk of burns, blistering, and lasting skin damage due to the laser’s interaction with tattoo ink.

Why IPL is Not for Tattoo Removal

Despite some clinics claiming otherwise, IPL devices, which are often used for hair removal, are ineffective and unsafe for removing tattoos. These devices can lead to unsatisfactory results and pose significant risks:

  • Misinformation in the Market: Some clinics mistakenly or misleadingly use IPL for tattoo removal, leading to complications and ineffective results.
  • Safe Alternatives: For those seeking tattoo removal, specialized lasers designed for this purpose are the only safe options.

Introducing the PicoWay Laser: The Gold Standard for Tattoo Removal

For safe and effective tattoo removal, we recommend the PicoWay system, the leading technology in the field:

  • Advanced Technology: The PicoWay laser utilizes ultra-short picosecond pulses that effectively shatter tattoo ink into tiny particles without harming the surrounding skin.
  • Color Spectrum Coverage: With multiple wavelengths, it is highly effective at removing a range of tattoo colors, from dark blues to bright oranges and yellows.
  • Reduced Skin Damage: Compared to traditional nanosecond lasers, PicoWay offers a quicker recovery time and less risk of epidermal damage.

How Laser Tattoo Removal Works

  • Process: The laser emits quick pulses of light energy that break down the ink particles in the tattoo, which are then gradually absorbed and eliminated by the body’s immune system.
  • Post-Removal Care: After complete removal, you must wait at least six weeks before considering another tattoo in the same area to ensure proper healing.

Conclusion

Laser hair removal should never be performed over tattooed skin due to significant risks and potential damage. For tattoo removal, trust the PicoWay laser system at Sparkle Lifestyle & MediSpa for safe and effective results. If you have tattoos and are considering laser treatments, consult with our experts to explore your options safely.