Will covering my tattoo protect it during my laser hair treatment?

Question

I am getting laser hair removal near an area with a tattoo (an inch away) I will be covering it with bandages as a precaution. Will this prevent issues and laser getting close to the ink?

W. John Bull, MD · Answer

It is not necessary to cover your tattoo, but it certainly will not hurt. As long as the technician keeps a safe distance from the tattoo, it will not be effected at all by laser. We treat many patients with tattoos and have never had a problem.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to laser hair removal. During this treatment, tattoos do not necessarily need to be covered, but 100% should be avoided. It is suggested to stay a minimum of an inch all the way around your tattoo to avoid targeting that area. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Nicole Hayre, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Laser Hair Removal is a great option for removing unwanted hair. However, the laser should not be placed over areas with tattoos. Tattoos should be fully covered or completely avoided during the procedure to ensure they are protected and not exposed to the laser. Tattoos and permanent makeup can be affected when not properly covered.

Maha S. Shakir, MD, FACS · Answer

This is a great question. Tattoo's should be completely covered when doing laser hair removal. You can cover the tattoo with either a nude colored bandaid or white medical tape. Be sure to ask about it during your consult.
LOVA -Lake Oswego Vein & Aesthetics

Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery - Grand Rapids · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. While it's not necessary to cover your tattoo, be sure to have a trained provider. Your provider should avoid the tattoo area including a one inch border around it. I typically will outline the tattoo with white marker just for extra precaution. Have a great day!
Holly, RN

Chien C. Kat, MD · Answer

Hi Thanks for your question.Tattoos should be avoided completely during any laser session. It is not necessary to cover it over but it should definitely be completely avoided. We often outline them with white ink just to be sure.If the area to be treated is where the tattoo is then it wouldn't be possible.Hope this helps

Laura A. Katz, MD · Answer

Hello there.  You are correct to be cautious.  The lasers used in laser hair removal will seek out any pigment and attempt to rid the body of it.  This includes tattoos.  At Monroe Comprehensive Laser Center in Monroe, Mi, we coat tattooed areas with a white pigment to block them from the laser.  We do not perform laser hair removal over tattooed areas because, even with the pigment block, there is a chance the tattoo can be affected.

Jean M. Welsh, MD · Answer

Hello,
Thanks for your question. When getting laser hair removal, you do not need to cover your tattoos. The professional performing your procedure will avoid using the laser on areas of skin pigmented with tattoo ink.

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for you question.  Tattoo ink should not be fired upon with a laser at all.  The energy of the laser is confined to the spot size selected by the provider, the distance gauge indicates the distance of the energy from the skin as well as the width of the pulse.  It is not necessary to actually cover the tattoo to protect, but to just avoid pulsing on the ink.Good Luck!

Will covering my tattoo protect it during my laser hair treatment?

Answers (9)

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