Short answer: No, you cannot perform laser hair removal directly on or over a tattoo. It's risky for both the tattoo and the skin. However, around the tattoo — yes, with caution.Why does the laser "dislike" tattoos?
The laser (especially the 808 nm diode) works on the principle of selective photothermolysis: it targets melanin (pigment) in the hair and heats it up, destroying the follicle.The pigment in tattoos also strongly absorbs laser light (especially black and dark colors). The laser "confuses" the tattoo ink with hair melanin and starts heating it.Possible consequences:
- Fading or distortion of the tattoo (ink breaks down, colors change or pale).
- Burns, blisters, or scars on the skin.
- Intense pain during the procedure (the tattoo heats up more).
- Changes in skin texture or hyper/hypopigmentation.
All clinics and specialists confirm this: hair removal lasers are not designed for tattoos, and even accidental exposure can ruin the design.What do salons do?
- They cover the tattoo (with tape, white pencil markup, or simply avoid it, leaving a 1–3 cm margin).
- Treat only the skin around the tattoo.
- Remove hair on the tattoo itself using other methods (shaving, waxing, sugaring).
If the tattoo is large and covers the entire area — laser hair removal is not done there at all.Best plan of action
- If you're planning a tattoo — complete a full course of laser hair removal in that area first, wait 1–2 months, then get the tattoo.
- If the tattoo is already there — hair removal around it is possible, but on the tattoo itself — only traditional methods.
- If you want both smooth skin and a tattoo in the same area — first remove the tattoo with a laser (specialized for tattoo removal), then do hair removal.
Alternatives for hair on tattoos
- Shaving (safest and cheapest).
- Depilatory creams.
- Waxing/sugaring (painful and temporary).
