Is Tattoo Removal a Profitable Skill? What Training Do You Need?
Discover whether tattoo removal is a profitable skill, how much practitioners can earn, and the exact VTCT qualifications required to offer laser tattoo removal safely and legally in the United Kingdom.
Is Tattoo Removal a Profitable Skill? What Training Do You Need?
Tattoo removal has become one of the fastest growing and most profitable treatments in the laser and aesthetics industry. With millions of adults in the United Kingdom now having tattoos, demand for safe and effective removal continues to rise. Many practitioners and clinic owners are adding tattoo removal to their treatment menu as a reliable way to build recurring revenue and expand their client base.
This article explains how profitable tattoo removal can be, what affects your earning potential and which regulated VTCT qualifications you must complete before offering this treatment professionally.
Why Tattoo Removal Is Increasing in Demand
Tattoo removal has moved from a niche service to a mainstream aesthetic treatment. Demand is growing due to:
- An increase in the number of people getting tattoos
- Advanced laser technology that makes removal faster and safer
- Clients preparing tattoos for cover-ups
- Lifestyle or career changes that require tattoo removal
- Removal of low-quality, outdated or unwanted tattoos
- Increased public awareness of safe laser removal
The result is a consistently growing market with strong repeat business, creating an excellent opportunity for trained practitioners.
Is Tattoo Removal Profitable
Yes. Tattoo removal is known for its high profitability, low consumable cost and strong client retention. Unlike many single-session treatments, tattoo removal requires a course of regular sessions, which generates consistent income.
Typical UK Treatment Prices
Pricing varies based on tattoo size, colours and density. Common pricing includes:
- Extra small tattoos: £40 to £60 per session
- Small tattoos: £60 to £90 per session
- Medium tattoos: £90 to £150 per session
- Large tattoos: £150 to £250 per session
Most clients require 6 to 12 sessions, depending on tattoo depth, ink type and skin response.
Example Earnings Per Year
Below are realistic earning examples based on working 42 to 46 weeks per year. This accounts for holidays, quiet periods, training days and natural time off.
Tattoo Removal Earnings Tables
Realistic Calculations for 42 to 46 Working Weeks Per Year
Tattoo removal is a repeat-treatment service with excellent earning potential. The tables below show estimated annual revenue based on common UK pricing and realistic working patterns of 42 to 46 weeks per year.
Earnings Based on £75 Average Session Price
| Weekly Clients | Weekly Revenue | Annual Revenue (42 Weeks) | Annual Revenue (46 Weeks) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 clients | £750 | £31,500 | £34,500 |
| 15 clients | £1,125 | £47,250 | £51,750 |
| 20 clients | £1,500 | £63,000 | £69,000 |
Earnings Based on £95 Average Session Price
| Weekly Clients | Weekly Revenue | Annual Revenue (42 Weeks) | Annual Revenue (46 Weeks) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 clients | £950 | £39,900 | £43,700 |
| 15 clients | £1,425 | £59,850 | £65,550 |
| 20 clients | £1,900 | £79,800 | £87,400 |
Earnings Based on £120 Average Session Price
| Weekly Clients | Weekly Revenue | Annual Revenue (42 Weeks) | Annual Revenue (46 Weeks) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 clients | £1,200 | £50,400 | £55,200 |
| 15 clients | £1,800 | £75,600 | £82,800 |
| 20 clients | £2,400 | £100,800 | £110,400 |
These projections demonstrate how tattoo removal can become a significant and stable revenue stream even when offering treatment part-time.
What Training Do You Need to Offer Tattoo Removal
Tattoo removal is classed as a laser treatment and requires regulated, Ofqual-approved qualifications. The correct pathway is essential for insurance, safety, legal compliance and council licensing requirements.
Below is the recognised VTCT pathway delivered by Cosmetic College.
Step 1: Level 3 Foundation Qualification
For beginners or those without prior beauty or laser experience, the first step is completing a Level 3 foundation.
VTCT Level 3 Certificate in Access to Aesthetic Therapies
https://www.cosmetic.college/courses/vtct/level-3-certificate-in-access-to-aesthetic-therapies/
This qualification provides essential theory in:
- Skin anatomy
- Wound healing
- Contraindications
- Consultation and client assessment
- Professionalism and hygiene
It prepares you for laser-based qualifications at Levels 4 and 5.
Mandatory Safety Course
VTCT Level 3 Award in Basic Life Support and Management of Anaphylaxis
Required by most insurers and recommended for all laser practitioners.
Step 2: Level 4 Laser Qualification
Before specialising in tattoo removal, you must complete regulated Level 4 laser training.
VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Laser Hair Removal and Skin Rejuvenation
https://www.cosmetic.college/courses/vtct/laser-hair-removal/
This qualification covers:
- Laser and light physics
- Laser safety
- Fitzpatrick skin typing
- Managing skin reactions
- Laser hair removal
- Skin rejuvenation techniques
The Level 4 Laser Certificate is required before progressing to tattoo removal at Level 5.
Step 3: Level 5 Laser Tattoo Removal Qualification
This is the formal qualification required to deliver tattoo removal safely.
VTCT Level 5 Certificate in Laser Tattoo Removal
https://www.cosmetic.college/courses/vtct/level-5-certificate-in-laser-tattoo-removal/
This advanced qualification covers:
- Q-Switched and picosecond laser systems
- Selective photothermolysis
- Laser-tissue interaction for tattoo pigments
- Techniques for treating black and coloured inks
- Tattoo depth and ink composition
- Client selection and contraindications
- Safety protocols and eye protection
- Managing complications
- Live model tattoo removal treatments
Completion of this qualification makes you fully insurable and eligible for licensing in most regions.
Do You Need a License to Offer Tattoo Removal
Licensing requirements vary by council. Most require:
- A Special Treatment Licence
- Proof of Level 4 and Level 5 laser qualifications
- A Laser Protection Adviser (LPA) risk assessment
- Infection control protocols
- A sharps and clinical waste disposal contract
- Approved treatment room standards
Upcoming national licensing laws will further reinforce the requirement for regulated training such as VTCT.
Is Tattoo Removal a Good Business Opportunity
Tattoo removal is a strong business choice due to:
- High demand
- High profit margins
- Low consumable costs
- Repeat client bookings
- Strong return on investment for laser equipment
- Opportunities for specialist branding
It is suitable for aesthetic practitioners, clinic owners, tattoo artists, beauty therapists and those seeking a new career.
How to Get Started
To become a fully qualified and insurable tattoo removal practitioner, complete the following:
- VTCT Level 3 Certificate in Access to Aesthetic Therapies
- VTCT Level 3 Award in Basic Life Support and Anaphylaxis
- VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Laser Hair Removal and Skin Rejuvenation
- VTCT Level 5 Certificate in Laser Tattoo Removal
Cosmetic College delivers every qualification in this progression with hands-on training, small groups and expert support throughout your learning journey.
Start Your Tattoo Removal Career
Request a callback from our admissions team to discuss your pathway and course availability.
https://www.cosmetic.college/request-a-callback
Explore all VTCT courses at:
https://www.cosmetic.college/courses/vtct/