Get the real deal on beauty treatments—real doctors, real reviews, and real photos with real results.Here's how we earn your trust.

see all q&a
Posted underLaser Hair Removal q&a

Laser hair removal burnt my tattoo? Will I be left with a scar?

slw93Oct 27, 2015
I recently went to get laser hair removal on my legs and the staff accidentally done it over the top of a tattoo I have on my ankle and now I'm in so much pain and the skin has started to peel and is bright red. Will I be left with a scar? And will it ruin my tattoo? I've never had a burn hurt this much before, will it take a while to heal?

Answers (3)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
Dr. Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA
Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA profile photo
Dr. Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
4.7 | 53 Reviews
Answered on Oct 28, 2015
Answer
Dr. Monika Soni, MD
Dr. Monika Soni, MD
Board Certified Anesthesiologist
Answered on Jun 13, 2018
Answer
1 person found this helpful
Dr. Morris Westfried, MD
Dr. Morris Westfried, MD
Dermatologic Surgeon, Board Certified in Dermatology
Answered on Oct 28, 2015
Answer

More Laser Hair Removal Questions

Top Answer
User Avatar
Jason Emer, MD

This needs an evaluation by a cosmetic dermatologist as you need to ensure the hair/folliculitis is removed first before working on the color -- which can be treated with peels and lasers and skin care.  Best, Dr. Emer.

+4 answers
Top Answer
User Avatar
Laurie A. Casas, MD, FACS

The red spots around the hair follicles indicate perifollicular edema which is normal and a sign of a therapeutic treatment. It should resolve in 24-48 hours.  If the skin feels irritated or uncomfortable, you can use over the counter hydrocortisone 1% on the legs twice daily.  Also,...

+2 answers
Top Answer
User Avatar
Nathan W. Patterson, MD, FACS

Yes it is safe.  Eye protection is important but there is absolutely no danger of a hair reduction laser penetrating to the brain.

+3 answers
Top Answer
User Avatar
Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA

The bikini area is a popular area for treatment.  Your pale skin and dark hair is ideal.  An Alexandrite (755 nm) laser will work for you.  Please seek providers that have this technology.

+2 answers
Top Answer
User Avatar
Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA

Thank you for your pictures.  I would recommend medical treatment and control of your PCOS.  Your hair growth can be treated best by laser hair removal.

+3 answers
See all Laser Hair Removal Q&A
See more Laser Hair Removal Q&As
See all Q&As
SEE LASER HAIR REMOVAL GUIDE →