Laser hair removal is one of the most common cosmetic procedures being performed worldwide with a constant increase in demand over the last decade. Since it is a much more straightforward and more lasting procedure as compared to the orthodox ways of hair removal, it is becoming more and more popular with both genders. It does, however, have some limitations and even risks if performed by inexperienced hands. One of those limitations is performing it over tattoos. The shortest answer to the question Does Laser Hair Removal Damage Tattoos in Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sharjah? Is yes. But there is more to it than just the damage to the tattoo. A rising number of cases have been noted where someone tried hair removal at home and ended up with a quick trip to the ER due to severe burns because they tried laser hair removal over tattoos and the ink in the skin boiled, causing burns and blisters. This is why we at Enfield Royal Clinic in Dubai recommend seeking professional help for laser hair removal instead of at-home experimentation.
Aim of the Procedure:
Laser hair removal uses heat created through a concentrated light beam to target and removes hair follicles. Tattoos are made using different colored pigments under the skin and this pigment can also absorb the heat from the laser just like hair would. This would mean that the surrounding skin and tissue will heat up and may cause burns. That is why the tattooed area is either skipped in laser hair removal or is treated with a tattoo removal laser before hair removal.
Ideal Candidate:
If you’re planning on getting laser hair removal, it is recommended to get it before getting your tattoo done. Since it is safe to get tattooed after laser hair removal, it is usually the course of action for someone planning on getting both. You just have to do it in the right sequence.
Results:
Pre-Procedure:
Seeking a consultation can help a lot before getting the actual treatment. Even if you are prioritizing hair removal before the tattoo, it is important to keep in mind the following aspects of the treatment.
- Laser hair removal is not a one-shot procedure meaning it may require multiple sessions, so consult your doctor on the number of sessions required in your particular case and only get the tattoo after you’re done with the hair removal procedure.
- Let your doctor know about your medical history including any medication, allergies, or illness you may have had in the past.
Procedure/Treatment:
There can be one of two possibilities for someone who wants both a tattoo and laser hair removal.
- You don’t have a tattoo yet and are going for laser hair removal first.
In this scenario, you have the option to go for complete hair removal in the desired area. Your treatment will be normal and the only pain you feel will be the slight pricking from the laser beam as it vaporizes the hair follicles. After all your sessions you can feel free to get any tattoo since hair removal has lasting results.
- You have a tattoo and wish to get laser hair removal
If, however, you are planning on getting hair removal over a tattooed area, the doctor will advise you to either get a laser tattoo removal procedure or will perform the treatment after covering any ink on your skin so you don’t get burns during the procedure. You can trim, wax, or shave the tattooed area later if removing the tattoo is not an option.
Aftercare:
A lot of people confuse the lasers involved in removing tattoos and removing hair. It is pertinent to realize that both lasers are very different and should not be considered safe for the other procedure. Bottom line is that “laser hair removal over tattoos is not possible” and This is why we always recommend talking to a professional for such procedures.
Why Choose us?
We, at Enfield Royal Laser Treatments Clinic in Dubai, get a lot of queries such as Does Laser Hair Removal Damage Tattoos in Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sharjah? Remember that is better to be safe than sorry, so if you have any questions relating to laser hair removal or any query regarding tattoo removal, feel free to book a consultation on the form given below.
Dr Abdul Majeed Makkiya
1999 -2021 - Highly qualified cosmetic surgeon with 20+ years of experience. Passionate about helping others.
View ProfileDr Mahmoud Akrama
Dr. Mahmoud Akrama is a skilled general physician who specializes in aesthetic medicine and laser surgery. He received his MBBS...
View ProfileDr. Sannia Awais
A dedicated esthetician who is committed to the highest standards of excellence - always striving to achieve the very...
View Profile