Contraindications to permanent makeup removal — when the treatment cannot be done

Absolute contraindications — treatment cannot be performed

There are situations where we do not proceed with treatment regardless of how problematic the permanent makeup is. This is not excessive caution — it is a matter of safety.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Laser energy, immune stress and the by-products of pigment breakdown are factors whose impact on a developing foetus or breastfed infant we cannot exclude. We defer until breastfeeding is complete.
• Active skin infection or open wounds in the treatment area. Laser applied to inflamed skin intensifies the inflammation and can spread the infection. We wait for full recovery.
• Photosensitising medications — primarily isotretinoin (Accutane, Roaccutane). After finishing the course, a 6–12 month period is required before the skin regains normal reactivity to light. Other photosensitising drugs (certain antibiotics, diuretics) need individual assessment.
• Epilepsy. Laser flashes can trigger a seizure in sensitive individuals. With this diagnosis we require written clearance from the treating neurologist.
• Blood-thinning medications at high doses. Increased risk of bruising and bleeding during and after treatment. The decision depends on the specific drug and dose — a doctor's consultation is required.
• Keloid tendency in the treatment area. Laser can stimulate scar hypertrophy at the treatment site. With documented keloid history in the specific facial area, we do not take the risk.

Relative contraindications — depends on circumstances

The following conditions do not automatically rule out treatment but require a conversation — and sometimes a short postponement or a doctor's note.

• Diabetes. Well-controlled diabetes is manageable — healing is slower but proceeds. Uncontrolled blood sugar means the treatment is deferred.
• Thyroid disease under treatment. We assess individually depending on the medication and current hormone levels.
• Active autoimmune conditions. During a flare-up, the risk of unexpected skin reactions is elevated. In remission — usually feasible.
• Skin conditions in the treatment area (eczema, psoriasis). We only treat when the area is in complete remission.
• Recent or active tan in the treatment area. Tanned skin reacts more intensely — the risk of hyperpigmentation increases. We require a minimum 3–4 weeks after the last tan and consistent SPF use up to the appointment.
• Chemotherapy or recent radiotherapy. We defer treatment by at least 6 months after completing therapy, always in agreement with the oncologist.

We take a full history at the consultation. If anything is uncertain, we ask you to check with your doctor before the appointment — and we don't treat this as an obstacle. It is the standard for responsible practice.

What to tell us at the consultation

You don't need to know in advance whether your condition is a contraindication — that's what the consultation is for. Please tell us about:

• All current medications and dietary supplements.
• Past or current skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema, HSV — cold sores in the treatment area, especially around the lips).
• Systemic conditions — particularly diabetes, thyroid disease, autoimmune conditions, clotting disorders.
• Any history of chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
• Any tendency toward scarring (keloids, hypertrophic scars).
• Current or planned pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

The more we know, the more safely we can plan — or we will tell you plainly that it is better to wait. Free consultation: book online. Treatment prices are in the price list.

The treatment process and healing guidelines are covered in: aftercare and healing after permanent makeup removal.