Tattoo Removal – Necessary for Employment?

As the popularity of tattoos continues to rise, so do questions regarding obvious tattoos in the workplace. “Job stoppers” as they’re commonly called (typically defined as any tattoo that’s above the collarbone or below the wrist) have received recent media attention, as many employers are standing firm on their no-visible-tattoo policies. And for more highly inked individuals, this may pose significant employment challenges.

Even though an estimated 21 percent of Americans (that’s one in five, folks!) has at least one tattoo, potential employers’ perceptions about tattoos vary widely. Some believe that discreet tattoos (i.e., coverable) are fine but full “sleeves” that continue onto the hands are not; others think lots of chest, back and upper arm tattoos are no problem but anything on the face or neck is a no-go. Fingers? Maybe. Lips? Definitely not. As you can see, judgment is left to the employer and many aren’t lenient. Unfair? Probably. Reality? Definitely.

So, before you decide to cover your body with subdermal artwork—think twice. What might look good to you today could affect your livelihood tomorrow. That’s why laser tattoo removal has become the most popular way to remove unwanted tattoos—it’s less invasive, less painful and highly effective, especially when compared to traditional methods. Whereas lesser equipment focuses on breaking through the top layers of skin to remove the tattoo—causing some bleeding, scabbing, and blistering to the skin, NLI’s state of the art tattoo removal lasers target the ink, forcing it to gradually fade away.

National Laser Institute offers laser tattoo removal training courses for those interested in becoming trained for tattoo removal. Our laser courses can be complete in 1-2 weeks and provide you with hands-on training using advanced laser technology so you can learn how to safely and effectively treat your own clients.