Pre-Procedure
- If the area to be treated has hair, shave the area the day of your treatment.
- If you have been using an exfoliating product to lighten the tattoo (i.e. Wrecking Balm, or any Tattoo Fading Cream), discontinue use a week before your procedure. Do not resume use of exfoliating products during the course of your Laser Tattoo Removal Sessions.
- Avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen 3 days before and 3 days after treatment, as it can increase the risk of bruising and/or bleeding.
- If you have any irritation of the skin in the area of your tattoo, reschedule your appointment after the irritation is gone (i.e. sunburn, rashes, poison oak/ivy, etc.)
Post Laser Tattoo Removal Instructions
The tattoo removal laser treatment may create a superficial burn wound. Some clients may experience bruising or swelling. There is immediate whitening of the treated area, which usually lasts for several minutes. Some clients may develop blisters, crusts, or scabs within 12-72 hours, which may last for 1-2 weeks or more. The treated areas may be pink or pale after the scab separates. Loss of skin pigment in the treated area is common, and is usually temporary. Healing is usually complete by 4-6 weeks.
- Keep the treated area clean and moist with Aquaphor or Vitamin E (from the capsule) while it is healing. Clean the area gently with soap and water and then gently pat the area dry. Do not rub, scrub, or pick at the area. Apply a thin coating of Aquaphor or Vitamin E. If there are signs of infection apply Polysporin or Bacitracin – NOT Neosporin or Triple Antibiotic) up to three times a day while the area is healing. Keep the area covered with a sterile dressing during the healing process, especially if the area is exposed to friction from your clothing.
- If blisters form, do not soak them. Do not use any products that dry the skin (NO Alochol, Peroxide, Epsom Salts, etc)
- If the area is itching, you can apply topical Cortisone Ointment. Ointment is preferable to cream, as it is more emollient, and will aid in the healing of the procedure.
- Avoid swimming pools, lakes, rivers and ocean water for a minimum of three days post treatment to minimize exposure to bacteria.
- It is recommended to apply ice packs (wrapped in a thin towel to cool the area – not freeze it) as necessary for 24 hours after the laser treatment to help reduce discomfort and inflammation. You may take plain Tylenol, but avoid aspirin or ibuprofen (it can increase the risk of bruising and/or bleeding.) If the tattoo is on the foot or ankle, elevating is recommended for the first 24 hours.
- Do not pick at the scab or allow the skin to become scraped, as this may result in infection and scarring. Shaving should be avoided in the treated area until it is completely healed.
- Do not wear makeup or any cream or medication unless recommended by our office for 48 hours.
- Wear a sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher over the area for 3 months following the treatment – zinc oxide is the best.
- If the area looks infected (honey colored crusting and oozing or spreading redness), if you experience an unusual discomfort or bleeding, if any other complications develop, or if you have any questions or concerns, contact the office immediately.