Laser Removal Aftercare
Some tips to ensure you get the best possible results!
Redness, swelling, scabbing, flaking, irritation or blistering is normal will most likely occur. This can last for several days. A white discoloration of the treatment area may appear right after the treatment and last for a few minutes to a few days. Your tattoo may darken, lighten, fade or even appear to have no change immediately post treatment. On average, it takes 6-12 weeks for your body to process the pigment of the tattoo. Tattoo removal works by eliminating pigment in the tattoo through the body’s lymphatic system, therefore, treatment results will not be visibly evident for 8-12 weeks.
Use ice packs to reduce swelling if needed, do not keep it in the area for more than 5 minutes.
Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area throughout the course of your laser treatments. If sun exposure is necessary, keep the treatment area covered with a non-adherent bandage. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Use an unscented, uncoloured soap to clean the area and pat dry. To moisturise use Nove (available at the shop), or Aquaphor 2-3 times as needed. Do not use polysporin as it will slow down the removal process.
If scabbing occurs, it is very important not to pick, shave, rub, scratch or aggressively wash the area to prevent possible scarring. If blistering occurs, do not drain blisters. Allow them to dry and heal on their own. Care should be taken to prevent trauma to the treated area for the first 7-10 days following treatment.
No exercise for the first 24 hours, rest up
Do not soak the area for at least 2 weeks after the treatment. ( no baths, hot tubs, swimming pools, lakes, the ocean, etc.)
If the tattoo is on a lower extremity, keep the leg elevated to increase blood circulation which encourages the healing process.