Can tattoo artists perform laser tattoo removal?

Anybody can remove a tattoo if their state laws allow. We are not doctors, rather we went to a cosmetic laser center run by 2 doctors who did everything except tattoo removal. We went to the best school in the country for training, then bought the best laser and got trained on it again. It was the same laser used by the school. Our doctors said it was not necessary, but we are glad we did it. We received additional training in other states by various experts from the US and Europe, and shall continue to do so. The more specialized training a person has the better. (Example: specialized training in removing red ink on people with pigment in their skin - what laser settings, what to look for, what specific time interval to follow between treatments). A specialist in tattoo removal would have more experience, especially if they do not also do 25 other procedures too. Ask what training they have in tattoo removal and was it on the actual laser that they will use on you. Some people, shockingly, are not insured. Most importantly, we find the willingness to take time necessary to educate the patient on the differences between blistering and not blistering and giving the patient a choice in how they would like to be treated. More risks, pain and aftercare with fewer treatments or almost no aftercare needed least risks and more treatments needed. Since the body does the removal by integrating other methods to assist the body the ink can come out faster with less risks, pain and treatments.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Tattoo lasers are a Class 4 medical device and must have a physician to purchase. Many spas and tattoo parlors will pay a doctor--can be any type and without expertise or being on site--a retainer so they can purchase this device. Safe and effective tattoo requires extensive knowledge of laser physics and skin physiology. We feel this can only be in a medical office that specializes in lasers and skin care. We have seen many people coming from less than optimal places with burns and scarring.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The regulations for who is allowed to perform laser tattoo removal varies depending on the state. In some states, only physicians can perform the treatments; in others, nurses/nurse physicians and even technicians with formal training are allowed to do it.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The question can only be answered when you look at it state by state. Each state sets it's own rules for what persons (licenses) are allowed to perform laser treatments. In California, you must be a nurse orphysician to perform laser treatments. All others without these
licenses in California would be practicing medicine without a license and subject to arrest, prosecution and jail time.

Published on Jul 11, 2012