Yes! If you have a tattoo, you can still get laser hair removal but not directly over the tattoo—the same goes for removed tattoos. This is because, during treatment, the laser targets the pigment in your hair follicle to safely and effectively eliminate your hair at the root. However, the laser can’t tell the difference between ink pigment and hair follicle pigment. So if treated over, the ink pigment could scatter and result in a burn as it tries to escape the skin.
If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo, then laser hair removal is a great option to get beforehand. You can get a clean slate, so to speak, over the area you want tattooed.
It’s very important to disclose tattoos and removed tattoos before beginning treatments.