If you're considering laser tattoo removal and you're currently pregnant or hope to soon become pregnant, it's important to consider whether this procedure is safe for you and your child. Be sure to disclose your pregnancy status to your cosmetic specialist.
During Pregnancy
You should not have laser tattoo removal performed while pregnant. There are two primary reasons for this. First, the laser removal process breaks up the ink in your tattoo, which is then absorbed into the body. This ink can prove harmful to a developing fetus. Likewise, you should avoid the numbing agents that you may otherwise opt to have during the procedure, because they are also absorbed into the body. Numbing agents aren't always required during the procedure, though.
The second reason to avoid the removal procedure during pregnancy is photosensitivity. During pregnancy, your skin will become more sensitive, particularly to light. The concentrated light used during pregnancy can prove more painful to you when your skin is photosensitive. This is especially true since you shouldn't have a numbing agent.
Before or after Pregnancy
There is no harm in having tattoos removed before or after pregnancy. However, be aware that if you have laser tattoo removal performed shortly after giving birth, your skin may still be sensitive and the procedure could be more painful than usual. If you're getting the procedure before becoming pregnant, remember that depending on the size of your tattoo, you may have to have multiple removal treatments before you see ideal results. Make sure that you set aside enough time before you become pregnant to complete the treatments, or put the treatments on hold during your pregnancy.
