RA and laser tattoo removal: Hello everyone. Even... - NRAS

NRAS

37,263 members46,132 posts

RA and laser tattoo removal

cosana profile image
7 Replies

Hello everyone. Even though I'm quite new here, I noticed that there are many of you who have been through a lot of things and therefore, maybe there's someone here who might give me a piece of advice.

I've been diagnosed with RA about 6 months ago and this struck me by the time I was planning to get rid of 2 of my tattoos. I did some research on the internet about the laser removal procedure and the point is that the laser works by breaking down the ink into small particles, but then my body has to eliminate the ink, with the help of some cells of the immunitary system, called macrophages.

My question is: is it still possible for me to go through this procedure, since I've got this autoimmune disease? I'm afraid that the whole process of eliminating the ink would only make my immunitary system intensify, and worsen my condition in consequence.

Written by
cosana profile image
cosana
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
7 Replies

I would expect it to raise your cell count as I had a tattoo removed and it showed on my blood test

sylvi profile image
sylvi in reply to

Minty i am glad you could answwer this question as i have no knowledge of this as i have no tattoos.xxxx

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone

Definitely don't go ahead until you have spoken to your Rheumy team. Once those particles start to circulate there is nothing you can do about it.

Don't know how big or where your tattoos are, but the Red Cross have cosmetic products made for things like Strawberry Marks which would cover visible tattoos.

Contact the RC...they would probably know more about tattoo removal.

cosana profile image
cosana in reply toAgedCrone

Thank you for taking time to respond.

I've actually spoken to 2 clinics which perform this kind of tattoo removal, and I got pretty much confused, since the 2 answers were completely different. Ain't sure if the one that told me it's no problem for me to laser my tattoo wasn't actually considering only the amount of money I'd pay for this.

I had no idea that there are such comestics available, but as far as I am concerned, I would have preffered to permanently get rid of my tattoos. I'm sure they won't hide my tattoo completely.

Monday I have an appointment to my Rheumy and I will talk to him about this.

Anyway, thank you :)

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply tocosana

Speaking to Rheumy is definitely the way to go.Get as much info about removable procedures as possible to show/explain what will be involved.

In fact the cosmetics used by the RC are amazing & will cover a black Nevus & won't rub off.

Good Luck...don't take any chances....you liked the tattoos once, if it would be dangerous to have them removed.....remember that!

in reply tocosana

I cannot remember which type of laser was used but the tattoo popped and made spitting noises as it was removed. Apparently old tattoos are harder to remove because of the older types of ink.I had it removed at the Cambridge laser clinic and the cost was about £300 and took four sessions. I am 100% happy with the result. The pain factor for anyone interested was about 1 out of 10.

What shocked me is the many ladies having huge tattoos removed.

The doctor that did the procedure told me teenage women tend to go for dolphins 🐬 but by the time they come to be removed that like more like a whale

cosana profile image
cosana in reply to

Yes, I know how the whole process of the tattoo removal should look like.

Many had their tattoos made in a time of their life when they don't necessarily think too much of the consequence of having them for a lifetime. Not to mention the fact that some people, like myself, do change their way of thinking completely throughout the years.

What seemed to be "cool" is a madness now.

Anyway, thank God that permanent tattoos can be removed :)

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Pregnancy and RA.

Hi. I'm a 33 year old RA sufferer and have decided, with my husband to take the plunge and try for...
Janeye profile image

I Don't Understand Why Other's Have RA "Flares". My RA is Constant and Always Painful.

After 14 years of undiagnosed pain, about 4 months ago I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis....
Needforname profile image

cancer treatment and RA

I was recently scanned for a lump on my Lymph node and it was diagnosed a secondary but they...
cazpz profile image

TKR and flying

Hello All, I'm new to this site although I've been on various other 'Arthritis' sites over the...
katekelly profile image

Living With RA

Hi All, My name is Liam, i am 26 years old and have been living with RA now for 3 years. Why have i...
lkbtunechi profile image

Moderation team

See all
KateL-NRAS profile image
KateL-NRASAdministrator
Donagh-NRAS profile image
Donagh-NRASAdministrator
Nicola-NRAS profile image
Nicola-NRASAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.