Tattoo Removal Aftercare
The tattoo removal laser treatment may create a superficial burn wound. Some patients may experience bruising or swelling. There is immediate whitening of the treated area, which usually lasts for several minutes. Many clients then develop blisters, crusts, or scabs within 8-72 hours, which may last for 1-2 weeks or more. The treated areas may be pink or pale after the scab separates. Scarring, which can be hypertrophic or even keloid, can occur but is very rare. Loss of skin pigment in the treated area can occur, and is temporary except in very rare cases. Healing is usually complete within 4 weeks, although this may vary.
Keep the are clean and dry while it is healing. Clean the are gently with soap and water and then pat the area dry. We recommend you apply Savlon antiseptic cream upto 3 times per day for the first 3 days while the area is healing and you can keep the area covered with a sterile dressing for those 3 days.
Blistering is common and is likely to occur 8 hours after your treatment. Do not be alarmed, blisters heal very well and can be part of the normal healing process. Blisters indicate your body’s immune system is healing the area and beginning to remove the ink from your tattoo.
You may apply a cool compress as necessary for 24 hours after the laser treatment to help reduce discomfort and inflammation. You may take painkillers, but avoid aspirin (it can increase the risk of bruising and/or bleeding).
Do not pick at any scabbing or allow the skin to become scraped, as this may result in infection and scarring. Shaving should be avoided in the treated area until completely healed.
Feel free to shower 2 hours after the treatment, but take care to avoid high-pressure water hitting the treated area. Baths, hot tubs, swimming pools or any form of soaking isn’t recommended until all of the blistering and scabbing are completely healed, as this may increase the risk of infection.
Exercise is generally safe after treatment, taking into account the other aftercare instructions provided.
Wear a sunblock with an SPF of 50 or higher over the area for 3 months following the treatment. Do not wear any makeup or any other cream or medication on or near the treated are unless recommended by us for 48 hours.
After a few days, the treated area may begin to itch. This is very common due to the dehydrating effect of the laser treatment Use laser aftercare cream, after sun lotion, vitamin E ointment, aloe vera or any unscented moisturiser on the treatment area, to ease the itching and avoid scratching.
If the area looks infected (honey coloured crusting and oozing or spreading redness), if you are experience an unusual discomfort or bleeding, if any other complications develop, or if you have any questions or concerns, contact us immediately.
Of course if you have any extreme reaction, call 999 and go to the emergency department.