Who is not a good candidate for laser tattoo removal?

Author: Sandrine Boyle  |  Last update: Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Candidates with certain skin types, realistic expectations, and a desire for positive change tend to respond best to the procedure. On the other hand, individuals with specific medical conditions, active skin infections, or unrealistic expectations may not be ideal candidates.

Who should not get laser tattoo removal?

Tattoo Removal Contraindications & After Care
  • CONTRAINDICATIONS.
  • Conditions that would mean you were not able to have this treatments:
  • Conditions affecting your Immune System.
  • Bleeding Abnormalities.
  • Blood Thinning Medication.
  • Skin Conditions.
  • Cancer treatment.
  • Other Conditions Where Fragmented Ink Particles Could Cause Harm.

What I wish I knew before laser tattoo removal?

Listen to the risks during the consult and make sure you'll be ok with it if/when it does occur. These can include: incomplete removal, ghosting, hypo/hyperpigmentation, allergic reactions (mostly red ink), ink oxidisation, scarring, and in rare cases, infection.

What is the biggest concern with tattoo removal?

Risks. Scarring is likely after most types of tattoo removal. Infection or skin discoloration is possible as well.

What are the downsides of laser tattoo removal?

Laser tattoo removal can leave behind skin that is lighter than the skin around it. Other risks include possible scarring, infection, pinpoint bleeding, redness, or soreness, none of which should last for long.

Practitioner Debunks 10 Myths About Laser Tattoo Removal | London

Why is laser not removing my tattoo?

Inexperienced Laser Technician

Like with any cosmetic procedure, the provider's skill directly affects the success of the treatment. Even with the right laser type and wavelength used, a tattoo won't be removed if the inexperienced technician keeps on treating the same area for too long.

Who should not get a tattoo?

If you have a medical problem such as heart disease, allergies, diabetes, skin problems like eczema or psoriasis, a weak immune system, or a bleeding problem, talk to your doctor before getting a tattoo. Also, if you get keloids (an overgrowth of scar tissue) you probably should not get a tattoo.

Why not to get a tattoo removed?

As with any procedure, there are potential risks associated with tattoo removal procedures, which could include: Scarring. Infections. Skin discoloration.

Who is a good candidate for tattoo removal?

Ideal candidates are those who are in good health, have realistic expectations about the outcome, and are committed to following through with the recommended treatment plan. The technology is versatile, accommodating a wide array of tattoo inks and colors, and is effective on patients of various skin tones.

Where does ink go after laser tattoo removal?

Lasers can heat pigment-containing cells quickly through short pulses to rupture them and send the fragments into the body for drainage. Where does all that ink go? Some of the tattoo pigment gets washed away by the body's natural lymphatic system and some is released through the healing skin surface post-treatment.

How can tattoo removal go wrong?

Common Reasons That Cause Tattoo Removal Gone Wrong
  1. Cheap Laser.
  2. Inexperienced Technician.
  3. Previous DIY Attempt.
  4. Scarring.
  5. Choose the Right Tattoo Removal Business.
  6. Be Patient.
  7. Follow the Aftercare Instructions.
  8. Consider Skin Conditions.

Is it easy to remove a 10 year old tattoo?

Older tattoos may be slightly easier to remove as the body's natural immune response and sun exposure can help break down the ink over time. The type of ink used, the location of the tattoo, and the overall health of the individual's immune system are critical factors that can impact the removal process.

Who should not do laser treatment?

Who shouldn't have laser hair removal?
  • Are pregnant.
  • Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments.
  • Have genital herpes (HSV-2) or are prone to cold sores.
  • Have keloid scars (raised scars).
  • Have or have had skin cancer.

Did Pete Davidson remove tattoos?

Pete Davidson burned off all his tattoos: details

"I've been burning them off," Davidson told Fallon about his tattoo removal process. "They're almost gone." "Is it painful?" Fallon asked. "It's horrible," Davidson said with a laugh.

Why do I feel sick after tattoo removal?

The laser shatters the tattoo ink particles, and as the body's immune system works to flush out these fragmented pigments, it can result in nausea, dizziness, or other flu-like symptoms. Managing pain through prescribed painkillers or over-the-counter medications can help alleviate some of these symptoms.

What are the risks of laser tattoo removal?

While undesirable, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and hypopigmentation could be cosmetic side effects of laser tattoo removal, there is also a risk of more severe reactions, including infection and allergic reactions.

Where on body is best for tattoo removal?

As a general rule of thumb, the closer a tattoo is to the heart, the more effective the treatment will be. Tattoos on the upper arms, neck or face have a better chance of removal as opposed to tattoos on the hands, feet or legs, which experience lower rates of circulation.

What are realistic expectations for tattoo removal?

While the number of sessions required to remove a tattoo varies based on many factors, most pieces take about 10-12 visits before you see full removal. These treatments must be six to eight weeks apart to give your skin time to heal. The good news is that the tattoo removal process is cumulative.

Which tattoos cannot be removed?

Yellow, blue, purple, turquoise - these are the common colors that most laser tattoo removal devices just cannot seem to get rid of.

Is tattoo laser removal worth it?

Efficacy of Laser Tattoo Removal

While it's unlikely that a single session will completely erase a tattoo, the process of breaking down the ink pigments allows your lymphatic system to begin clearing them away immediately, ensuring you see noticeable improvements after just the first treatment.

Can black tattoos be fully removed?

Black tattoos can be completely removed, but it may be more difficult and require more sessions compared to tattoos of other colours.

What skin conditions prevent tattoos?

Such diseases include psoriasis, lichen planus, cutaneous lupus, sarcoidosis, and vitiligo. The standard recommendation for people affected by these diseases is to avoid getting tattoos, at least when the disease is active (increasing number and/or size of lesions) or during an active course of treatment.

Where should you never get a tattoo?

Areas like the feet, hands, stomach, chest, elbow, lips, and inner ear are not good tattoo locations. It's essential to consider a few things when choosing a proper placement, such as pain intensity, practicality, and visibility.

Can I donate blood if I have tattoos?

Yes, you can donate blood if you have tattoos

The same rules also apply to ear and body piercings. Remember, tattoos also include tattoo “touch-ups” and permanent cosmetic tattoos.

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