Health Insurance for Tattoo Removal in 2025: What’s Covered & What’s Not

Tattoo removal is quite difficult not only psychologically and physically, but also financially. Laser tattoo removal, which is considered one of the safest methods of tattoo removal, requires quite large financial costs. Each visit to remove a tattoo in this way can cost $ 200-500. This often forces people to look for ways to find compensation from insurance companies. This issue is more relevant in 2025 than ever, since the number of people with tattoos is growing at an indescribable pace these days. Of course, insurance companies do not cover interventions that are cosmetic in nature and not necessary for health. However, there are cases when tattoo removal becomes part of a medical intervention. In that case, you can expect tattoo removal insurance coverage.

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In this article, we will talk about in which cases it is possible to expect compensation for tattoo removal.

Tattoos with Allergic Reactions: Will Insurance Cover them?

If you have an allergic reaction to a tattoo, it is possible that the treatment will be to get rid of the tattoo. In this case, you can expect compensation from insurance companies. This is more likely in the case of small tattoos. And there is a very important circumstance. The insurance company will never cover ordinary tattoos that are done by amateur tattoo artists. In order for you to expect compensation, your tattoo must be done by a licensed artist. The latest should use appropriate high-quality materials and follow all safety rules. Professional tattoo liability insurance does cover medical treatments in case of an allergy or infection caused by a tattoo. Commercial umbrella insurance offers are also very attractive.

Employees of insurance companies should be well aware of every detail related to the art of tattooing, including the relevant working conditions and materials, as well as legal nuances. We have already mentioned that tattoo removal is only covered when it is medically necessary. One such case is the allergic reaction we discussed above. Now let’s look at other cases of tattoo removal that may be considered medically necessary. Thus, insurance companies may cover tattoo removal if the tattoo was part of a medical procedure and is no longer necessary. For example, radiation targeting. It is also possible that a tattoo may cause psychological problems if it was done under duress. This can happen to victims of trafficking. All of these cases require a doctor’s justification and potentially an ICD-10 code.

Tattoo Removal Costs in USA

Tattoo removal costs depend on several factors, such as the size of the tattoo, age, ink colour, and location. On average, it takes 6-12 sessions to remove a tattoo. Tattoo removal costs at Removery range from around $1,100 for a small tattoo to around $3,600 for a large tattoo.

Top Health Insurance Providers and Their Tattoo Removal Policies (2025)

Here are some of the top insurance companies in the USA, and what their policies are for tattoo removal in 2025.

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) – Tattoo removal is not covered by insurance because it is a cosmetic procedure, not a medical one. The only exceptions are cases where there is an allergic reaction, scarring, or a mental health issue. The client must prove the existence of a medical condition with a medical certificate.

UnitedHealthcare — This insurance company also does not cover tattoo removal if it is done for cosmetic purposes. In the case of this company, exceptions are tattoos that were done for radiation therapy and tattoos that have caused serious skin problems. When applying to this company, you must have prior authorization, as well as ICD-10 documentation.

Aetna — This company also does not cover tattoo removal if it is done for cosmetic purposes. The company will consider your claim if the tattoo causes permanent skin complications.

Kaiser Permanente — This company will only consider tattoo removal for compensation in cases where there is a threat to mental health.

Cigna — This insurance company only covers the removal of tattoos that were done for surgical guidance and that have caused severe allergic reactions. You will need a referral and other relevant documents.

In summary, regardless of which insurance company you work with, you will need a detailed diagnosis from a doctor and proof that the tattoo poses a risk to your health.

How to File a Claim for Tattoo Removal Coverage

If your claim for tattoo removal fully meets the above conditions and you can prove it with a doctor’s note, your next step is to submit a properly formulated application. The correct formulation of the insurance claim will increase the likelihood that the insurance company will approve it.

Step 1. First of all, you should choose a licensed dermatologist, with whom you will have the conclusion of the consultation in the form of a written diagnosis. In this diagnosis, the dermatologist should present in detail the problems associated with the tattoo, the results of tests and indicate what danger the tattoo poses to your health.

Step 2. Depending on the requirements of your chosen insurance company, you may need to request a Pre-Authorization and including your ICD-10 diagnostic code.

Step 3: Submit the Formal Claim. After your tattoo removal, you will need to submit a package of documents that will include the invoice from the laser clinic, your pre-authorization approval, the doctor’s notes and related documents. Use your provider’s official claim submission portal or mailing address.

Step 4. No matter how confident you are in your case, you should be prepared to appeal. To do this, you should keep copies of all documents, respond quickly if the insurance company requests clarification on any issues, and be ready to add evidence if necessary. If your claim is denied, this does not mean that your appeal will not be successful either. In fact, many people succeed in receiving compensation as a result of an appeal.

Before receiving tattoo removal treatment, study the list of medical institutions that are accepted by your preferred insurance company. In that case, there is a greater chance that the insurance company will approve the compensation.