Laser Tattoo Removal: Risks, Safety & What to Expect

According to a 2006 study by Northwestern University, 17 percent of the 24 percent of people who had tattoos were thinking of having them removed. Laser technology is a popular way to do it. Ian Kirby, co-founder of a laser tattoo removal franchise based in California, told Inc. magazine that the process used to be a lot more dangerous than it is now. “Before, lasers were kind of like bazookas; they would just blast the skin,” Kirby said. Advances in technology and increased laser experience in the medical profession have made laser tattoo removal safer, but there are still some small risks involved.

Scarring

• Though the risk of scarring used to be greater with lasers, the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery states that the risk is now quite rare. In 2006, the University of Iowa Health Center estimated the risk to be 1 percent or 2 percent. Since technology has advanced, the percentage may have decreased.

Pigmentation

• In rare cases, the pigment of the skin may be permanently changed by lasers. However, skin color changes are usually temporary. The laser changes the surface skin color, but new skin grows back to replace it in a matter of weeks.

Other Side Effects

• Laser tattoo removal may cause blistering, scabbing and infection. Usually, these problems are temporary. They can be minimized by making sure the doctor or technician is experienced and uses the most up-to-date laser equipment.