Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare

Erasing unwanted body art is more than possible these days with advances constantly being made to the laser tattoo removal procedure and laser tattoo removal technology.  While there are not many complications that have the potential to crop up due to laser tattoo removal, aftercare should be taken into account before and especially after the procedure has been done.  Practicing proper aftercare will ensure little to no complications. Practicing proper aftercare will help prevent scabs, blisters, scarring and other tissue damage from developing as a result of the laser removal procedure.  Here are a few aftercare tips following laser tattoo removal:

Try to keep cool

Many patients describe laser tattoo removal as a feeling similar to a slight sunburn, so you should consider applying a cool compress to the removal site for the first 24-48 hours after the procedure. Keeping the tattoo removal site and surrounding area cool will help prevent inflammation, relieve discomfort and prevent other complications from occurring.

Keep the removal site clean and dry

Keep the tattoo removal site clean and dry.  To clean the area, use warm water and a mild soap to help prevent infection.  Do not rub the area dry, gently pat the area dry until it is fully healed. You may apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment and cover the area with a sterile dressing, which most tattoo removal studios will provide you with.  All of this will help prevent infection and any other complications.

Resist picking at or scratching the area

Often times, patients will develop a scab around the tattoo removal site, which is a part of the body’s natural healing process. Scabs typically get itchy and a lot of times our natural reaction is to pick at it, but whatever you do avoid picking at the area.  Remember, it is scabbing up because it is trying to heal.  Picking at the scab could cause infection, so resist the urge.  It is important to keep the area covered to avoid infection.  Keeping it covered will also make patients less likely to pick at the area. Applying some hydrocortisone ointment to the area will also help reduce the urge to scratch the site.

Don’t take aspirin following the procedure

After the laser tattoo removal procedure you may want aspirin, but we advise patients not to take aspirin following the procedure. Aspirin causes the blood to thin, which slows the healing process.  Regular-strength Tylenol is typically advised as a way to treat pain and inflammation.  Consult your doctor and speak with your tattoo removal studio experts regarding any other medicine or medications you may be taking during the time of your procedures.

Keep your skin protected

During and after the laser tattoo removal process it is essential to keep the site protected from sun damage.  The sun can cause complications such as blistering which will prevent the tattoo removal site from healing.  Minimize your time in the sun while undergoing the tattoo removal procedure.  Even months after the procedure, patients should avoid time in the sun and should keep the removal site area covered with at least 25 SPF. 

Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different.  While taking precautions with aftercare like we listed above, it is important to listen to the medical professionals who will assist in the removal process regarding aftercare.  Make sure you pay attention to changes in your skin and don’t hesitate to alert a medical professional if you are concerned about changes in your skin that you did not expect.  Feel free to comment below or contact us with questions pertaining to the laser tattoo removal procedure or proper laser tattoo removal aftercare.