The NZ Laser Institute is calling for more regulation in the tattoo removal industry.
Senior clinical tutor Stacey Spencer-King told Breakfast that Kiwis are being scarred and burned too often when undergoing a procedure.
She said regulations in the industry only exist in the Auckland region and have not been updated since 2013.
“We need to make them more detailed and waterproof.”
Tattoo Removals Auckland salon manager Jane Lang agreed with Spencer-King, and also told Breakfast more regulation is needed.
“You can purchase a laser on the internet and set yourself up, and no one is stopping you doing that.”
Lang said burns, scarring and the spread of misinformation is happening too frequently, and a body needs to make sure people are trained.
“It is a serious treatment, so we need to keep the standards of our industry up.”
Lang said if someone is visiting a good clinic, the operator will take the client through a proper consultation outlining what they can expect and give them an open understanding of how the procedure is going to work.
She added if the consultation is not good, it’s “time to run”.
The main issue plaguing the industry is due to unskilled practitioners according to Lang.
The best fix would be to ensure people are trained, and receive regular training with the rapidly changing technology.
Top tips to avoid being burned
Lang also shared her top tips to finding a good clinic to visit.
She said the best way to undergo a procedure is to make sure the operator is trained, and to make sure they provide a comfortable experience.
“Ask any question you feel you need answered… don’t sit down and expect anything… ask what you need to ask.”