Red Light Therapy and Tattoos: Is It Safe?

If you have tattoos, you may wonder whether red light therapy will fade the ink or interfere with healing. Here is the practical answer.

Will it fade your tattoo?

Red and near-infrared light is not the same as the high-energy lasers used for tattoo removal, which target ink pigment at specific intense wavelengths. Everyday LED red light therapy is low-energy and is not known to meaningfully fade healed tattoos. Most people use red light over tattooed skin without issues.

Fresh tattoos: wait until healed

Do not use red light (or any device) over a brand-new tattoo that is still an open wound. Let it fully heal first, typically a few weeks, then proceed normally. Our safety guide covers treating compromised skin.

For skin and recovery

Once healed, tattooed skin can be treated like any other skin for collagen, tone, or muscle recovery. For skin goals, see our skin guide.

For body skin and recovery over healed tattoos, a panel is versatile. The AWA FX300 Red Light Therapy Panel ($199.99, FSA/HSA eligible) is a great fit. See how to use your FSA/HSA to save with pre-tax dollars.

FAQ

Does red light therapy remove tattoos?

No. It is low-energy LED light, not a tattoo-removal laser, and is not known to fade healed ink.

Can I use it on a new tattoo?

Wait until the tattoo is fully healed before treating the area.

This article is educational and not medical advice. Red light therapy is generally very safe, but check with your doctor about your specific situation.