Can You Get Laser Hair Removal Over a Tattoo

Nowadays, people don’t bother to spend hours doing monotonous jobs – removing hair from private parts, legs, chest, and arms by plucking, waxing, tweezing, or shaving. The latest alternative that enables them to get rid of unwanted hair is laser hair removal therapy. But is it possible to get laser hair removal over a tattoo? Let’s find out. 

How does Laser Hair Removal Work?

To understand how laser technology works on hair, let’s understand the colour of human hair and the laser reaction on it. The colour in human hair is because of the presence of pigment in hair follicles; the more pigment in the hair, the darker it looks. That’s why laser technology works more effectively on darker hair rather than light-coloured or grey hair – the higher pigment levels in the hair follicles make the treatment more effective.

Now, what happens during laser hair therapy is that when a laser is directed towards hair, it gradually breaks down the pigment in the hair follicle, and after a few sessions, it reduces further hair growth.

Laser Hair Removal Over a Tattoo? Does it Work? 

In short, no. It’s not typically recommended to get laser hair removal over a tattoo. The reason for this is that the lasers used in hair removal are designed to target the pigment (melanin) in hair follicles. Tattoos are also a form of pigment in the skin, so when a laser is directed towards hair pigment, it cannot differentiate between the pigment of hair and skin. Ultimately, neither the hair removed nor the tattoo remain in its original shape. 

What would be the consequences if I get laser hair removal over a tattoo?

These effects might include changes in the tattoo’s appearance, such as fading or discolouration. The laser could also potentially cause skin damage in the tattooed area, including blistering, burning, or scarring.

What are the Alternatives for Laser Hair Removal?

Having said that, a laser may not benefit you if you have tattooed skin, so what are the alternatives to removing hair from the body? Let’s find out.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis does not target the pigment in the hair. Instead, it destroys the hair growth centre of the hair follicle through heat or chemical energy. An electric current is sent down a fine probe or needle into the hair follicle to achieve this. Because it does not target pigment, electrolysis is effective on all hair and skin colours. This is one of the reasons why some people prefer electrolysis over laser hair removal.

Getting Rid of a Tattoo

If tattooed skin is restraining you from getting laser hair removal therapy, there is a productive, though protracted, process. You should consult with the best laser therapists in Dubai and ask them relevant questions. Upon consultation, they may recommend you first get rid of the tattoo and then undergo laser hair removal therapy. As already said, it is a long process but still an effective one. First, they will fade your tattoo ink from the skin using a different kind of laser and then perform laser therapy on the target area.

However, it is worth noting that this is a complex process that can require many sessions and can lead to skin damage. Also, sometimes, it doesn’t yield satisfactory results. Therefore, consultation with a qualified dermatologist is recommended in that regard. 

Comfortable Waxing

There are different types of wax available on the market with claims to comfortably remove unwanted hair. However, it is noted that hard wax is more comfortable than soft wax and when applied to the skin, it gets hard. Therefore, you don’t need waxing strips to remove it, as the wax itself hardens. 

Moreover, comfort levels can vary greatly from person to person. Factors like the skill of the esthetician and the area of the body being waxed can also significantly impact comfort, highlighting the importance of opting for a qualified aesthetician

Takeaway

If you want to learn more about getting rid of tattoos or getting laser hair removal over tattooed skin, kindly contact Euromed Clinic. Our expert dermatologists and laser therapists will guide you and provide you with a tailored treatment to help you achieve your desired results. For bookings and consultations, please call us at +971 4 394 5422 or fill out and submit the form provided below.