PicoSure Laser Tattoo Removal Contraindications & Precautions

Tattoo removal with the PicoSure laser is generally suitable for most people; it’s very rare that we can’t treat someone. However, like all laser treatments there are contraindications and precautions that need to be considered for your own safety.

Below are all the contraindications and precautions that are taken into consideration for PicoSure laser tattoo removal treatment.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to light in the near infrared wavelength region.
• Taking medication which is known to increase sensitivity to sunlight.
• Seizure disorders triggered by light.
• Have type 1 diabetes.
• Take or have taken oral isotretinoin within the last six months.
• Have an active localised or systemic infection, or an open wound in area being treated.
• Have a significant systemic illness or an illness localized in area being treated.
• Have lupus.
• Have common acquired nevi that are predisposed to the development of malignant melanoma.
• Have herpes simplex in the area being treated.
• Are receiving or have received gold treatment.
• Are pregnant.

Precautions

It’s the therapist’s discretion to determine feasibility of treatment administration for the following precautions:

• Unprotected sun exposure within four weeks of treatment, including the use of tanning beds. Sun exposure is the most common reason for treatment refusal.
• Use of tanning products within four weeks of treatment, such as creams, lotions and sprays; these may interfere with the laser treatment.
• We can treat patients with type 2 diabetes whose condition is well managed. In some cases we may need a doctors note.
• Anticoagulants may cause excessive bleeding and interfere with post-treatment healing.
• Medications that alter the wound-healing response may interfere with post-treatment healing and may require special precautions to be taken by the treating therapist.
• If patient is known to have a history of healing problems or a history of keloid formation.
• If patient has a history of skin cancer or suspicious lesions.
• Chemical depilation or mechanical epilation within the last six weeks may interfere with the post-treatment healing process.

If you’re having a tattoo removed or considering it, it’s important you are made aware of the contraindications and precautions listed above. Prior to any laser removal treatment, we run through all of the above in a consultation.

If you have any questions relating to the information in this post, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team.

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