Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare: Less Is More!

If you are thinking about getting your tattoo removed, or perhaps already undergoing laser treatment, it is important that you educate yourself on how to properly care for your body and skin during the treatment process. While the laser breaks down the ink, it is up to your body to flush out those broken down ink particles. The healthier you are, the more efficient your bodily functions will be. Namely, it is the lymphatic system that rids our bodies of foreign objects such as ink particles. Keep in mind that it takes time for the body to process the ink once it is broken down - this is why fading may not be noticeable until 4-6 weeks post treatment. 

Using laser technology to remove tattoos is undoubtedly the safest and most effective way available, but lasers put a significant amount of heat and energy into the skin and, although uncommon, adverse reactions can occur. Luckily, there a few things you can do to ensure faster fading and significantly lower the chances of any negative side effects.

Remember: LESS IS MORE.

Seriously, leave it alone and drink some water. 

Check out all of the guidelines and tips to ensure your body is breaking down the tattoo ink to the best of its ability!

• Keep the treated area clean and dry - make sure to wash your hands before touching the treated skin, clean twice daily with non-astringent soap and cool water and pat dry with a clean towel. Do not soak your skin in water and use cooler water when bathing.
• Do not scratch or pick at the treated area, and keep the treated area away from pets and small children.
• Keep the treated skin dry. Try to avoid any ointments or topical creams, although Aquaphor or vaseline can be used sparingly if the skin is itchy or irritated.
• Let it breathe! Allow the treated area to be exposed to the air and bandage it only if necessary. Avoid any restrictive clothing over the treated skin.
• Stay out of the sun and use sunscreen (SPF 30) when outdoors.
• Do not use hot tubs, saunas, or tanning beds.
• In the first 24-48 hours after a treatment, avoid strenuous activity and get as much rest as you can to allow your body more energy to begin the healing process.
• Keep hydrated and drink 6-8 glasses of water a day.

There are some side effects to laser tattoo removal, and there are specific ways to sooth your skin to allow your body to recover and remove your tattoo.

• Blistering can and do occur, but do not pop your blisters! Blisters are working to protect your skin from infection and will go away on their own after 3-5 days. If the blister becomes bigger than a dime, you can carefully use a lancet to pierce and drain it.
• Swelling after treatments is common, and applying ice to the area (with a cloth between ice and your skin) can help to calm the inflammation - this usually goes away after the first few days.
• Redness can occur for the first 72 hours after a treatment and the treated area may feel like a sunburn. 
• Itchiness is the most common side effect, but it is important to NOT scratch or irritate the treated area. Ice or cold packs can be used to alleviate the itch. 
• Dryness and crusting can also occur, and this can sometimes make the tattoo appear darker - this should go away once the area has healed and the tattoo will look lighter. Never pick at scabs because this can cause scarring.
• Infections are unlikely to occur but in the event of pus discharged, increased pain, and/or persisting redness you should contact a medical professional.

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