Contraindications for Laser Hair and Tattoo Removal at Bush Whacked Laser in Edmonton, AB

Contraindications for Laser Hair and Tattoo Removal at Bush Whacked Laser in Edmonton, AB
Are you considering laser hair or tattoo removal? It's essential to understand the crucial contraindications that could affect your safety and

7 Crucial Contraindications for Laser Hair & Tattoo Removal

Understanding when not to proceed with laser hair removal or tattoo removal is key for safe and effective treatments—especially in sensitive cases like pregnancy, breastfeeding, age, or cancer. At Bush Whacked Laser in Edmonton, AB, we use the leading-edge Alma Soprano Ice for hair removal and Candela PicoWay for tattoo removal. Here’s what you must know:

1. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding - Not a Green Light

  • Can you get tattoo while pregnant?
    The answer is no. Both tattooing and tattoo removal during pregnancy are discouraged due to unknown risks and lack of ethical clinical trials.
  • Can you get laser hair removal while breastfeeding?
    Medical professionals advise caution. Facial treatments in particular are typically not recommended. This is because pregnancy and lactation hormones make the skin more sensitive, heightening side-effect risks.
    • Fact is, ethical testing on pregnant or breastfeeding individuals is impossible, so safety remains unverified. We err on the side of caution at Bush Whacked Laser.

2. Pregnancy Itself

Pregnancy disrupts your skin’s healing and pigmentation. Changing hormone levels can:

    • Affect melanin sensitivity
    • Increase risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
    • Complicate assessments with laser settings
      So, again, we cannot ethically test to guarantee safety. We always advise waiting until after pregnancy.

3. Age & Hormones—Too Young?

From a laser perspective, teenagers or individuals younger may not be ideal candidates.

    • Hormonal shifts can stimulate new hair growth or pigment changes over time.
    • That means more sessions, less predictable results, and higher long-term cost.
      We recommend waiting until your hormones stabilize a bit more usually post-age 18

4. Cancer or Active Chemotherapy

  • Cancer patients or individuals undergoing chemotherapy: Laser is off-limits.
    • Compromised immune systems
    • Impaired skin healing
    • Risk of pain, infection, and pigment damage
      **Always consult your oncologist before considering laser treatments.

5. Active Infections & Open Skin Conditions

Any active skin infection or inflammatory condition (like cold sores, eczema, or psoriasis) at the treatment site is a no-go. Laser can spread infection, worsen symptoms, or delay healing.

6. Recent Sun Exposure or Tanning

If you’ve tanned—whether natural or via tanning beds—your skin is more photosensitive. Laser treatments could cause burns or depressions. It’s wise to wait at least 2–4 weeks after tanning for best outcomes.

7. Medications & Photosensitizing Drugs

Some medications (like Accutane, retinoids, or antibiotics such as doxycycline) heighten skin’s light sensitivity. Laser over photosensitized skin can lead to burns or unexpected pigment changes. Discuss your medication use during consultation.

Key FAQs:

Q: Can you get tattoo while pregnant?
No—pregnancy increases risks of infections, pigment changes, and adverse effects. Ethical trials aren’t done, so safety is unconfirmed.

Q: Does laser tattoo removal cause cancer?
No. Laser removes tattoos via light energy fragmenting ink particles. There is no evidence that laser treatments cause cancer—but always have trusted professionals handle tattoo removal equipment.

Q: Can you get laser hair removal while breastfeeding?
Generally no, especially for the face. Hormonal skin sensitivity and unknown effects without clinical data make it unsafe.

Q: Can you get laser on face while breastfeeding?
We strongly advise against it. Hormones can trigger heightened sensitivity, pigment changes, and unknown risks.

Q: How old do you have to be to get a tattoo in Canada?
In Alberta, you must be at least 18 years old.

Why Bush Whacked Laser Leads the Way in Safety & Results

  • Advanced Technology: We use Alma Soprano Ice for hair removal—superior cooling, fewer treatments, less discomfort—and Candela PicoWay for tattoo removal—faster, safer, and better on colored ink.
  • Evidence-Based Approach: Our professionals follow strict medical protocols. We will not treat if risks outweigh benefits.
  • Respect for Uncharted Cases: Without ethical clinical trials, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding people, we rely on caution and best practices, not guesswork.

Your Next Steps

  1. Book a free consultation at our Edmonton clinic.
  2. Disclose your health background—including pregnancy, lactation, age, medication, or cancer history.
  3. Receive a tailored safety and efficacy assessment biased toward your long-term well-being.

When it comes to laser hair and tattoo removal, safety is always first. From hormone-driven sensitivity and clinical unknowns to cancer treatments and age-related concerns, we uphold the highest standards at Bush Whacked Laser in Edmonton. If you’re unsure whether you’re a candidate, our team is ready to guide you with informed expertise and care.

Safe, ethical, and effective—Bush Whacked Laser has you covered.

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