This is the second in a series of Q&As with the people who work for tattoo removal specialists Laserase. Our network comprises 13 clinics across the length and breadth of the United Kingdom and we perform not only laser tattoo removal but also laser hair removal and acne treatments. The Laserase Promise guarantees our patients 20 years of expertise and the highest levels of professionalism and care. A huge part of coming to our clinics is the relationship that you will build with your laser tattoo removal practitioner over the course of your sessions. So, over the next few months, we’re going to introduce you to some of the staff that you’re likely to meet when you come to a Laserase clinic.
This week we introduce you to Debra Netts from Laserase Newcastle.
How long have you worked at Laserase Newcastle?
Sister Debra Netts
Approximately 6 years.
How many tattoo removal sessions do you oversee at the clinic each week?
At least 2 or 3 sessions per week.
What is the most memorable tattoo removal that you’ve done?
A young lady had a tattooist boyfriend (now ex) who had given her a very large tattoo all over her back, in black ink. She had been very young when he had applied the tattoo, but the results from her sessions at Laserase have been amazing (also painful and emotional). She will now wear strappy tops and vests in the summer and even a white shirt. The outcome has been amazing.
What have you found to be the most common reasons for removal?
Having a tattoo put on when they were young – all of their friends had tattoos and it was the thing to do. However, now they are working up to management/senior positions at work they now regret their decision and are also embarrassed by their tattoos. This is especially true of tattoos on forearms.
Do you see a lot of tattoos done by unlicensed tattooists?
Sometimes but the most prevalent type of tattooing is Indian ink tattooing done by friends at home.
Likewise with removal? Have you seen people try to remove tattoos on their own?
Yes definitely. The use of acid and cutting out tattoos is common but mainly in older age groups. When people do this scarring becomes a particular issue and once you have scarring there is very little that can be done to resolve it. We can remove the ink but the scarring can be prominent and permanent. It just goes to show that some people are so desperate to remove a tattoo that they will do anything to get rid of them.
Is laser removal always the most advisable course of action?
Yes, but it is not always easy. This does depend on the colours in the tattoo and we are always honest with patients as to what we think the outcome will be.
Does the clinic carry out tattoo removal on people under the age of 18?
Yes, but not very often.
Getting to know you…
How did you end up working in tattoo removal?
I was looking after my two young children and had recently left a specialist nurse position at the local hospital as the hours were becoming a problem. A friend was working at Laserase and mentioned there was a position available and the rest is history.
Do you have any tattoos yourself?
No, they are not for me.
What do you think about the increased exposure of tattoos in the media and the influence it has, particularly on young people?
I feel there has been an increase in the amount of young people with tattoos due to being influenced by celebrities and footballers etc. Some are wonderful works of art and we are seeing a lot more with bright unusual colours. However I would stress that if a young person would like a tattoo that they go to a good/reputable tattooist and discuss colours prior to having a tattoo. Quite often, once they mature, people regret having tattoos and they sometimes do not realise that some colours, greens especially, are difficult to remove and they may be left with residual ink.
What are you reading at the moment?
Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes.
What artist are you listening to most at the moment?
Coldplay and Adele.
Favourite film / television show?
Chocolat with Johnny Depp.
Favourite place to be in the world?
At home or the coast with my family in front of an open fire!
