Hair Removal and Tattoos

As we know, a tattoo is looked on as a form of body modification, and can take on many designs. The chosen design is achieved by specific tattoo dyes, pigments of various colours and inks being inserted directly in to the skin as far as the dermis layer. Tattoos are more popular than ever for both men and women. However, hair will still grow within the tattoo and as a result, both men and women still wish to have those hairs removed.

Laser Hair Removal Directly Over Tattoos

Most people assume that laser hair removal is the obvious choice - but far from it! As stated earlier, laser hair removal significantly helps to reduce hair growth under normal circumstances, on non-tattooed skin. But, the heat generated during the laser treatment, targets the natural melanin in each hair (according to the Fitzpatrick Skin Scale). The black ink used to create a tattoo, imitates natural melanin. As a consequence, using a laser directly on to a tattoo will not work because it will influence the ink of the tattoo itself. The laser would be drawn to the black pigment of the tattoo ink causing it to disperse, and diminishing the overall colour of the tattoo by potentially 75% - therefore altering the tattoo itself. Blistering to the skin is also a considerably high risk. However, laser hair removal can still take place around a tattoo, as it would be covered according to strict guidelines.

Electrolysis Hair Removal Over Tattoos

Electrolysis is the only method of permanent hair removal which is recognised by the British Medical Association. Electrolysis can be used on all hair colours, whether dark and coarse or fair and fine, and is highly effective. It is also the safest and most effective method for hair removal directly over tattoos. The insertion of the fine probe, which inserted into the individual hair follicle, has no effect on the dye or coloured pigments used when the tattoo was first done. Therefore, both men and women with tattoos, will achieve successful results from electrolysis treatment directly over the tattoo.

In Conclusion:

If you have a tattoo, and are concerned about hair growth within the design, the safest, effective and permanent method of hair removal is electrolysis, and NOT laser hair removal.

Should you still require hair removal around a tattoo, this can still be done by laser as the tattoo would be totally covered according to strict guidelines. The required treatment in each individual case, would be discussed in depth during the consultation.

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on 01883 672077

or 07846 538268