Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare

Laser tattoo removal is a simple aesthetic procedure with minimal complications. Since each individual tattoo is unique, each laser tattoo removal procedure will be unique as well. However, laser tattoo removal aftercare is the same for everyone and will help with the results of the treatment. At Infinity Laser Spa, we use top-of-the-line technology that protects patient safety while delivering the best laser tattoo removal results. The laser machine we use during the procedure is Vertex Q-Switch, efficient on all skin types and tattoos.

Many factors will affect the results of the laser tattoo removal procedure. A patient's immune system, the size of the tattoo, the skin tone, the tattoo placement, the ink used as well as the age of the tattoo. However, much of the success of any laser tattoo removal treatment relies on the patient. Just like when your tattoo was applied, proper aftercare is important to achieve optimal results.

Whether you undergo laser tattoo removal at a clinic or at a spa, like ours, the laser technician should deliver aftercare instructions at the end of a laser tattoo removal session. These instructions are integral to attaining quality tattoo fading without skin texture change, infection, or other unwanted side effects. Should a patient have any questions, they should ask to ensure those instructions are very clear and that they will be followed.

Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare

1. Common side effects

Like any other aesthetic procedure, laser tattoo removal can have side effects. Although most of them are really common and insignificant, some other are rarer and should be taken seriously. Any side effects patients are worried about should be reported to the laser technician.

Laser tattoo removal may create a superficial burn wound. There will be an immediate whitening of the treated area, which won't last for more than several minutes. Some patients may experience bruising or swelling, and many clients develop blisters, crusts or scabs within 8 up to 72 hours. Those may last for up to 2 weeks or more. The treated areas may be pale or pink after the scabs separate. Loss of pigment in the treated area can occur temporarily as well.

In very rare cases, loss of pigmentation may be permanent. Hypertrophic or even keloid scarring may occur but this is very rare. If a patient experience any of those, they should report to their laser technician. Laser technicians are trained to observe the appropriate clinical response on your skin during the treatment. That is why it is important that patients let technician know of any adverse reaction.

Clients should also note what they experience after the treatment has no bearing whatsoever on the effectiveness of the treatment you received. Healing is usually complete within 4 weeks, though healing time may vary. A great laser tattoo removal aftercare will help healing faster.

2. Laser tattoo removal aftercare

1. It is important that patients keep the treated area dry and clean while it is healing. Gently clean the area with soap and water and then pat dry, do not rub. The skin is already sensitive, so patients must treat it very gently.

2. Laser tattoo removal will leave the skin sensitive, irritated and much more vulnerable than before. To ensure discomfort does not get worse or to no interfere with the healing process, patients should refrain from using any beauty products on the area for some days. No makeup, no lotions or cream, nothing with chemicals.

3. Apply a thin coating of antibiotic ointment three times a day for the first three days while the area is healing. Keep the area covered with a sterile dressing for those three days. It is very common that the laser technician will give patients a small container with antibiotic ointment.

4. Laser tattoo removal side effects may be source of discomfort. You can apply cold compresses for 24 hours after the treatment to help reduce both discomfort and inflammation. You can also take Tylenol when necessary, but avoid aspirin (as it can increase the risk of bruising or bleeding).

5. Blistering is common, and will likely occur within 8 hours after your tattoo removal treatment. As blisters heal well and are part of the normal healing process, you should not be alarmed. Blisters are indeed an indication that your immune system is healing the area and beginning to remove the ink from your tattoo. It is natural for the blisters to pop, and this actually helps the skin to recover faster in many cases. Apply the antibiotic ointment over the blisters once they have popped for at least 24 hours.

6. Be careful of hot showers. As a matter of fact, you should wait at least two hours after the procedure before taking a show. Avoid high water pressure hitting the treated area. D not soak the treated area until all scabs and blisters have completely healed: no baths, hot tubs, or swimming to prevent the chance of infection.

7. Do not touch nor shave over the treated area. The skin is sensitive and may be covers in blisters. Touching will only increase the chances of an infection and scarring. Avoid itching as well. Use Aquaphor, Vitamin E ointment, or hydrocortisone cream on the treated area.

8. Stay away from the sun. The skin is left vulnerable to the environment after laser tattoo removal. It is more prone to sun damage. Wear a sunblock with an SPF 30 or higher over the area for 3 months following the laser treatment.

3. Some more recommendations

Below are basic laser tattoo removal aftercare advise that patients should follow no matter what. Not only will it be safer for them, but a proper good laser tattoo removal aftercare will improve the results of the treatment. Any adverse reactions due to lack of proper aftercare will indeed interfere with the whole procedure. Considering laser tattoo removal is quite painful and a rather long process, whose cost can quickly increase as more sessions are needed, it is not something you want to happen.

Other laser tattoo removal aftercare recommendations you may follow are not as essential but will help with discomfort following the procedure. During the healing, it is better to wear clothes that are comfortable and loose. The skin is quite sensitive so better avoid tight close that may be rubbing again the tattoo and increase the sensation of inflammation.

Exercising is generally safe after laser tattoo removal. However, patients must consider whether they should carry on exercising immediately after the treatment. Workout attires tend to be tight and chaffing against the skin quite a lot with movement, which may irritate the skin more. Finally, be wary of painkillers. It may be tempted to take painkillers. However, it is not recommended. Make sure you are not taking blood thinning medication such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin. Talk to a pharmacist or physician of you have doubts.

In case of abnormal reactions on your skin (besides the redness and irritation) or if the area looks infected (honey-colored crusting, oozing, spreading redness), call your doctor immediately. Keep in mind that skin pigment color change is also possible. In order to ease the pain use the prescribed ointment for several days right after the procedure. Keep the treated area clean and dry.

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