5 Essential Tips to Prepare for Laser Tattoo Removal and Ensure the Best Results:
1. Set Realistic Expectations for Laser Tattoo Removal
Laser tattoo removal is generally effective, but the results can vary depending on several factors. To ensure the best outcome, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Keep in mind that most tattoos require multiple treatment sessions for complete removal. Additionally, tattoos located further from the heart may take longer to remove due to decreased blood flow, which can affect the healing process and results.
2. Eat and Hydrate Before Your Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment
To ensure the best possible experience during your laser tattoo removal session, avoid arriving on an empty stomach. Feeling light-headed is a common side effect, so it’s important to reduce the risk by eating and hydrating well before your appointment. It’s also advisable to avoid ibuprofen or aspirin, as they can increase bruising after the treatment. For an extra boost, consider taking glucose tablets, as they can help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
3. Stop Smoking Before Laser Tattoo Removal to Promote Healing
Getting rid of the smokes is essential for many health reasons, and it’s especially important before undergoing laser tattoo removal. Smoking can significantly slow down your body’s healing process, increasing the risk of scarring and infections. To ensure optimal results from your tattoo removal treatment, it’s highly recommended to stop smoking before and after the procedure.
4. Protect Your Skin from the Sun Before and During Laser Tattoo Removal
To ensure the best results from your laser tattoo removal treatment, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. Tanned skin is more prone to adverse reactions such as hyperpigmentation (Leaving a dark stain) or hypopigmentation (Leaving a light stain) after the removal process, so it’s essential to avoid direct sunlight as much as possible while undergoing treatment. When you do need to be outside, apply a generous amount of sunscreen or wear protective clothing over the treated area. To prepare for your first session, stay out of the sun for at least four weeks, as some specialists may refuse to treat tanned skin.
5. Keep the Treated Area Clean and Clear for Laser Tattoo Removal
Before your laser tattoo removal treatment, it’s crucial to ensure that the skin is clean and free of any products such as moisturisers, lotions, perfumes, or cosmetics. This helps the laser work effectively and reduces the risk of irritation. During the procedure, the sensation may feel similar to being snapped with a rubber band (cliché but true) but you can use numbing cream! After the treatment, your skin may feel sunburned, so be sure to wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t touch or rub against the treated area to avoid further discomfort.
10 Aftercare rules!
After saying goodbye to me proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring a smooth healing process.
1.Keep the Bandage On
Keep your bandage on for the first three days and avoid water exposure for the rest of the week. This helps protect the treated area and promotes healing.
2.Aloe Vera Gel for Cooling Relief
Aloe Vera gel is an excellent choice to soothe the treated area. Apply it regularly to hydrate and calm the skin. It provides natural cooling effects that promote recovery.
3.Skin Hydration After Bandage Removal
Once the bandage is removed, continue moisturising your skin with Aloe Vera Gel. This helps maintain skin elasticity and aids in the healing process.
4.Gentle Cleansing
You can gently wash the area with water and then pat dry after 4 days. 2 weeks after your treatment use unscented, mild soap. Be sure to avoid scrubbing or applying pressure, as this may cause skin irritation.
5.Cold Compress for Swelling Relief
Apply a cold compress (such as a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a clean cloth) to the treated area. This helps reduce swelling and discomfort during the healing period.
6.Avoid Direct Sunlight
Protect the treated area from direct sunlight. Exposure to UV rays can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of pigmentation changes. Always use sunscreen once the area is healed.
7.Avoid Extreme Temperatures
For the first few weeks, avoid hot showers, baths, hot tubs, or saunas. Extreme heat can irritate the skin and delay healing.
8.Do Not Pick or Scratch
Refrain from picking or scratching the treated area. This can lead to scarring and increase the risk of infection.
9.Avoid Immersing in Water
Do not immerse the treated area in water until it has fully healed. Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and soaking in baths to prevent irritation and infection.
10.Keep the Area Moisturised
Aloe Vera gel again is a great natural moisturiser for soothing the skin. Avoid oils or heavy creams that may clog pores.
Final Thoughts on Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare
By following these aftercare rules!, you can promote proper healing after your laser tattoo removal treatment. Taking the necessary precautions will help minimize the risk of complications and support your skin’s recovery.
* did I mention Aloe Vera?
What to Expect After Laser Tattoo Removal:
Days 1 to 3
Right after the procedure, you might notice redness, swelling, and sensitivity in the treated area. To help minimise swelling, apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth for 10-15 minutes, making sure the ice doesn’t touch your skin directly.
Days 4 to 7
To ensure proper care during this time, gently cleanse the area with water and pat it dry using a clean, soft cloth on day 7. You might experience scabbing, blistering and itching as your skin continues to heal. To manage these symptoms, it’s important to avoid scratching or picking at the scabs, as this can cause scarring and delay recovery. Go for loose, breathable clothing to minimise irritation.
Days 8 to 14
You might notice some improvements in the treated area. You must continue to protect the area from the sun, if you need to go outside, apply a broad-spectrum suntan lotion with a minimum SPF of 50. To avoid any darkening of the skin; wearing protective clothing or a bandage can be helpful. If any scabs have come off on their own, you might want to gently exfoliate to support new skin development, using a mild product. And remember to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as this will aid in your skin’s healing process.
Days 15 and Beyond
Tattoo removal takes time! As you move beyond the initial stages of laser tattoo removal, it’s important to stay focused and committed to your treatment plan. Although these notes are helpful laser tattoo removal is not natural and your body is not expecting it, things might get weird. Consistency is key for achieving the best results. As your tattoo begins to fade, take a moment to appreciate the progress and enjoy the journey toward a clean slate.