Tattoo Removal Illinois – A Business Guide

It is expected that there are over 3.7 million* tattooed individuals in Illinois. Many individuals suffering from tattoo regret now look to either completely remove a tattoo or remove it partially for a cover-up. Planning on starting a laser clinic for tattoo removal in Illinois? Read this article for an in-depth study of Illinois laser tattoo removal laws, tattoo removal Illinois market size, basic requirements of setting up a tattoo removal clinic, etc. 

Tattoo Removal Business Start Up

When starting a tattoo removal business, there are several crucial things to consider, plan, and implement. For a step-by-step guide to starting a tattoo removal business, click here. This article covers important aspects of building your business including:

• tattoo removal equipment choices
• types of laser tattoo removal machines 
• tattoo removal business space 
• marketing and business plan 
• training and hiring
• tattoo removal business profitability, and
• Licenses, state regulations, and insurance

For a detailed analysis of which insurance covers the business might need, click here.

It ultimately comes down to this: laser tattoo removal. Laser removal has emerged as the go-to treatment. It is effective and comparatively safe, being a non-invasive skin treatment. A laser tattoo removal clinic can be a highly profitable business.

Tattoo Removal Illinois Market Size

Not everyone loves their tattoo forever. According to Harris Poll (2015), almost a quarter of people with tattoos suffer from tattoo regret. In fact, the tattoo removal market is currently witnessing a huge expansion. It is set to grow into a $795 million market by 2027 at a growth rate of 19.3% (Allied Market Research). Over 3.7 million people in Illinois have at least one tattoo. Many of these tattooed individuals will face tattoo regret too. And when they do start looking for removal options, your tattoo removal clinic in Illinois can emerge as their savior. 

Illinois Laser Tattoo Removal Laws

In Illinois, the Department of Public Health is responsible for regulating the health sector. For the use of lasers in non-medical cosmetic settings, the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation had announced stricter laser rules in March 2009. This stand was reiterated in a joint press release made in 2010 by these two departments, particularly highlighting the potential dangers of tattoo removal. The notice stated that since a laser affects the living tissues of a body, it is to be considered a medical device. Only a licensed physician or a personnel under the direct supervision of the physician can operate a laser.

Although the physician can delegate the task to ‘appropriately educated, trained and experienced nurses or other personnel,’ the physician stays legally responsible for the procedure. The delegating physician must either be present on-site or be available for instant communication in case of emergency. The physician must also conduct the initial patient examination as only a licensed physician can prescribe laser treatment. 

1. A laser used for cosmetic treatments such as tattoo removal is considered to be a medical device.
2. In Illinois, a laser can be operated only by either a licensed physician or by an appropriately trained non-physician personnel under the physician’s supervision.
3. The supervising physician must be present on-site or be available for instant communication. 

Many organizations and government departments help new businesses start and run efficiently. Some of them are:

1. The Illinois Department of Commerce offers a step by step guide to setting up a new business in the state. This covers everything from drafting a business plan to the registration of the business. 
2. The Illinois Small Business Development Center provides support and assistance to existing and new businesses through its various training programs and free consultation service.
3. The Illinois branch of SBA (Small Business Administration) also has a lot to offer. The SBA is not only a storehouse of information but also provides networking opportunities through its various small business events. 
4. Score is a non-profit organization offering educational resources and advice and mentorship from business experts. 

Note: This article does not offer legal advice or interpretation.