Growing Popularity of Tattoo removal in the UK

Latest UK Health & Medical News ยป

25th December 2013


Tattooing has a long and decorated history, not only within the UK but in the world at large. From the first simple markings tattooed onto the skin of prehistoric peoples to the elaborate works of art featured on the skin of people from all walks of life, tattoos have been a longstanding means of self-expression.

While in the past permanence has been a defining feature of tattoos, relatively recent innovations in the field of laser based skin treatments has allowed for the removal of body art which you may have come to regret. Laser treatments are by no means a perfect method of tattoo removal, however advances in the technology have seen a rise in its effectiveness and usage. Recently skin specialists based here in the UK have reported higher than ever before applications of laser tattoo removal.

With the rise in the use of this type of treatment, specialist organisations like the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon (BAAPS) and the British Medical Laser Association (BMLA) have both called for an update to the regulation of the industry. With more and more people opting for laser tattoo removal, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that equipment of an appropriate standard is used safely and effectively.

A report from the British Association of Dermatologists indicates that as many as a third of tattoo bearing Britons regret their choice of body art. Despite how easy it is to get a tattoo, their removal remains complex, painful, and time consuming. Unfortunately the deregulation of the use of cosmetic lasers in 2010 has led to a boom in the delivery of this particular service, and the danger of this particular change in legislation is that virtually anyone can deliver what is ultimately a potentially dangerous treatment should they wish to.

As the uptake of laser tattoo removal increases, a review of current legislation and safety regulations is an important consideration for the safety of people looking to undo their body art.