Can Red Light Therapy Fade Tattoos?

The BEAUTY ANGEL generates light energy mainly in the near infrared and visible regions of the light spectrum (not UV). Because they are never stronger than natural sunlight, unwanted side effects, such as discoloration of tattoos, are very unlikely. However, it is still important to take precautions when using red light therapy. One idea is to wait two weeks after the first treatment session, when the skin is no longer sensitive to the additional “heat energy” of the red LED, before using red light therapy.

This will help accelerate the healing process and allow the body to focus on healing aggravated tissue, rather than removing extraneous tattoo ink partials. The effect of red light therapy on tattoos is not yet fully understood. The extra pigment in the skin could cause more light to be absorbed in that area, but this is very unlikely. The main concern would be the tattoo itself, since the impact is unknown.

To protect both the tattoo and your skin from any unforeseen effects, it is recommended to cover them with a piece of white cloth that is taped or supported in place. Red and infrared lights have been shown to increase circulation and reduce inflammation, which can speed up the healing process of tattoo removal and reduce skin fatigue in the treated area. However, this may also reduce the amount of ink reduction associated with the treatment, meaning more laser tattoo removal sessions may be required. LED light therapy offers the advantages of light absorption without damaging UV rays.

Let's take a closer look at the benefits of red light therapy for skin, wounds, injuries and pain. Red light therapy devices have been approved by the FDA for a growing list of things including acne treatment, anti-aging, hair loss and regrowth, pain relief, fat loss, etc. Unless your doctor or dermatologist has told you not to use phototherapy, it shouldn't be a problem for any skin type or tone. Some products may block light penetration while others may cause irritation when used in bright light. If FDA approval is important to you, ask for proof that the device you plan to buy is actually FDA-approved or FDA-authorized. The verdict remains unresolved when it comes to red light therapy and tattoos.

While it does not share the same wavelengths of light with UV rays that are known to fade tattoo color, its long-term effect on tattoos is not yet fully understood. To be safe, it is recommended to cover tattoos with bandages while using red light therapy.