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Is Laser Tattoo Removal the Right Choice for You?
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Right For You?
Top Reasons to Consider Laser Tattoo Removal
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Unhappy with the design, placement, or the circumstances of getting the tattoo.
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Restrictions due to employee appearance policies.
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Symbolic of a past chapter, seeking a fresh start.
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Reminders of past relationships.
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Unwanted tattoos impacting self-esteem.
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You want to remove an old tattoo ready for a new one.
Benefits of Choosing Laser Removal
1. Effectiveness
Laser technology has improved significantly over time and is now the gold standard for removal. We can effectively remove a wide range of colours and inks.
2. Precision
Lasers like our medical grade Polaris optimise two different wavelengths which when used in conjunction can specifically target a broad range of colours
3. Safety
Selective Photothermolysis is the process of targeting ink specifically, not the surrounding tissue, making laser tattoo removal the safest form of removal out there.
4. Minimal Down Time
Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment. We just advise to take additional care of the treated area, for example, wearing loose fitting clothing.
5. Progressive Fading
Laser treatments gradually fade the tattoo over several sessions, allowing you to see the results over time.
When Laser Tattoo Removal isn't Ideal: Contraindications to Know
Contraindications in laser tattoo removal refer to specific conditions or factors that make a person unsuitable for the procedure. These are situations where the risks of treatment outweigh the potential benefits. For example:
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If you are pregnant
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Currently breastfeeding
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Currently have a sun tan, sun burn or fake tan (A history of tanning injectors and nasal sprays also mean that we can not offer a treatment plan)
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Have metal implants in bones within the treatment area
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Prone to keloid scarring
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Currently taking medication which has a common side effect of increased photosensitivity
These are just a few of the contraindications which is why we emphasise pre-treatment consultations to thoroughly go over your unique circumstances. Your safety will always be our main priority.
Are You Prone to Keloid Scarring?
Keloid scarring is a unique concern that rules out laser tattoo removal for some clients. Keloids are raised, thickened scars that grow beyond the original wound site, often triggered by skin trauma. Because laser treatment involves controlled damage to break up tattoo ink, it can provoke or worsen keloids in those prone to them.
If you have a history of keloid scarring, say from piercings, surgeries or even your tattoo itself, the laser’s heat and disruption could spark excessive scar tissue growth instead of smooth healing. Safety comes first, so we avoid treatment in these cases. During your free consultation, we’ll assess your skin’s history to ensure the process won’t do more harm than good.
Metal Implants: Why We Can’t Proceed
Metal implants near a tattoo site are a key reason we may avoid laser tattoo removal. Whether it’s a surgical pin, joint replacement or dental hardware, metal can interact unpredictably with the laser’s energy. The light can heat or reflect off the implant, potentially causing burns, discomfort, or even damage to surrounding tissue.
If your tattoo sits close to an implant, say, over a knee replacement or near a metal plate, the risk outweighs the benefit. We prioritise your safety above all, so during your free consultation, we’ll review any implants and their locations to determine if treatment is viable or if alternative options are needed.
Living with Cancer
Cancer or ongoing cancer treatment often rules out laser tattoo removal for safety reasons. If you have active cancer, especially skin cancer near the tattoo site, the laser could interfere with affected tissue or mask symptoms, complicating diagnosis and care.
Cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation also weaken your immune system and slow healing, raising the risk of infection or poor recovery after a session.
Your well-being is our priority, so if you’re living with cancer or in treatment, we’ll review your health status during a free consultation to confirm whether it’s safe to proceed or if we should wait until you’re in the clear.
Diabetes: Why It Depends and How a Doctor’s Note Helps
Diabetes doesn’t automatically rule out laser tattoo removal, but it’s a condition we approach with caution. Uncontrolled diabetes can slow healing and increase infection risk, as high blood sugar hampers your body’s ability to repair skin after laser sessions.
If your diabetes is well-managed the risks drop significantly. That’s why we often say, “Get a doctor’s note, and we’re good to go.” A clearance from your GP confirming stable glucose levels and no complications lets us proceed safely. During your free consultation, we’ll discuss your health and ensure everything’s in place for a smooth, safe treatment.
What Can You Do If You Have a Contraindication?
In certain cases, we cannot proceed with your laser tattoo removal session. For instance, if you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding, we won’t perform the treatment. This is because no clinical trials have studied the effects of laser tattoo removal on individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, so we err on the side of caution and do not offer the service in these circumstances.
However, we may still be able to proceed with your laser tattoo removal for example, if you have diabetes. This is classed as a contraindication, however, provided you supply a doctor’s note confirming that you’ve discussed your situation with your GP and they approve the treatment, along with your own signed consent form, we can carry out laser removal.
If you do have any of the contraindications above and are unsure what this means for you, contact us and we would be more than happy to discuss your circumstances and provide you with useful advice.
Does Skin Type Effect laser Tattoo Removal?
At CliniClear in Doncaster, we personalise your tattoo removal with a detailed skin assessment. Using the Fitzpatrick scale (1-6) and your heritage, we ensure safe, effective results. Our laser’s 1064nm wavelength removes dark tattoos for all skin types, while 532nm targets red and lighter inks for types 1-3.
Ready to Begin with Laser Tattoo Removal?
Consultations are the safest way to get started, so we provide them completely free of charge