The tattoo removal process requires the body to absorb tiny ink particles that are broken up by the laser and remove them naturally through the lymphatic system. At this time there is no definitive research to prove that treated ink particle do or do not cross the fetal placental barrier. This could mean the absorption of ink is completely harmless for both mother and baby, however it is impossible to be sure. For this reason treatments will be recommended to be paused or put on hold during breastfeeding as well. Tattoo inks differ from person to person and it is difficult to know whether your specific ink contains any substances that could be harmful to the fetus. For this reason we also recommend that any new mothers finish breastfeeding before returning for tattoo removal.

During pregnancy the body becomes naturally more sensitive to light and therefore more susceptible to react to the PicoWay’s laser light. The risk of scarring and hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) is high on photosensitive skin. As key risk for all pregnant women, photosensitivity is not a risk we are willing to take.

The risk of infection is very low, especially with the PicoWay laser. However, not all skin reacts to the laser in the same way. For those who are sensitive to the laser light, there is a chance the skin could blister or crack after treatment. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, your body will require a lot of energy — we don’t want any wasted on fighting infection.

If you become pregnant while undergoing laser tattoo removal, do not be alarmed. There is very minimal risk to the body during this first trimester. The most important thing is that you notify your laser technician and your family doctor.

Once you’ve become a parent, you may decide you no longer want a certain tattoo on your body forever. For any new mother looking to remove a tattoo we recommend waiting at least three months post birth. At this point, your skin will have returned to normal and any hypersensitivity should be subsided. If you are planning to breastfeed for longer than three months, we recommend waiting until breastfeeding has stopped for good.

When it comes to the health of a mother and her baby, we believe it is always best to err on the side of caution. The safety and wellness of both are always more important than the need to remove a tattoo.

To learn more about superior tattoo removal at Unthink Inc., book your free consultation with Jim today .