It’s been argued over the years whether Barbie is a good or bad influence on teenage girls. Dressed up pretty, heading off to tackle her long list of careers, or heading back to her Malibu beach house in her Jeep, or out for her date with Ken…then yes, she probably inspires young girls to be what they dream of becoming when they grow up. In addition to her unnatural measurements and skimpy wardrobe options, Barbie has a new cosmetic enhancement that is stirring huge controversy: the blonde babe now has a tattoo.

The original intent of Barbie at her inception in 1959 was to show girls they don’t have to play with baby dolls and grow up to be housewives, they can grow up to be artists, doctors, girl scouts, the list is endless. Mattel is defending “Totally Stylin’ Barbie” also know in pop culture as “Tramp Stamp Barbie” saying Barbie’s tats are a way she expresses creativity. Would you like to let your child play with a grown woman doll that has “Ken” permanently written on her lower back in just the spot you would only see if her pants ride down a little shirt rides up a little too much? The bow on the shoulder isn’t quite as scandalous.

But if a teen is influenced to put her creativity in ink on skin as a pre-teen or teen, it’s likely that same young woman will find that she’s outgrown her teen tattoo later in life and wants it removed. Breakups and new jobs top the list of reasons to remove a tattoo, followed by weight gain. That rosebud on the hip bone was darling pre-pregnancy, but turns into a rhododendron at nine months gestation.

When removing a tattoo, it is important to get the right Doctor to professionally remove it.

Dr. Jeffrey Raval, owner and director of Rocky Mountain Laser Aesthetics in Cherry Creek , the tony boutique shopping section of Denver, Colorado, will consult with you regarding your tattoo. His office is equipped with state-of-the-art lasers that are tough on the tattoo and gentle on the skin.

Rocky Mountain Laser uses the MedLite® laser, a next generation laser that does not leave a scar and significantly reduces an existing tattoo by breaking down the particles of ink that are then flushed from the body naturally. The treatment can take anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes depending on the severity of the tattoo. Visit http://www.rockymountainlaser.com/tattoo_removal.html to watch videos of Dr. Raval explaining the tattoo removal process.