Dermatology clinics are the largest end‑user segment — they have medical‑grade lasers, trained staff, and sterile environments. Beauty salons are the fastest‑growing. The tattoo removal market forecast shows that salons are growing at over 15% CAGR, because they're cheaper and more convenient. But are they safe? Many salons use IPL (intense pulsed light) machines, which are not true lasers and can cause burns and scarring.

What's the difference? A medical laser is calibrated for your skin type and ink colour. The tattoo removal market analysis notes that the fastest‑growing technology is picosecond laser, which is only available in medical settings. Salons often use older Q‑switched lasers or IPL, which are less effective.

But some states allow non‑medical professionals to operate lasers. That's a risk. You should always ask: who is doing the treatment, and what is their training?

The bottom line: pay a little more for a dermatology clinic. Your skin is worth it. And never go to a salon that uses IPL — it's not a real laser.