Many people get tattoos when they’re younger and then regret them as their tastes or relationships change. Thankfully, lasers can now remove these once-permanent additions to your body. Proper aftercare is important for the best results.
THE TATTOO REMOVAL PROCEDURE
During a laser tattoo removal session, a trained professional will use a specialized laser to break down the ink particles in your skin. This device emits short pulses of intense light, which target specific ink colors. The pigments in the ink are fragmented into tiny particles, which are naturally flushed out by your body’s immune system.
It typically takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete the session, depending on the size and complexity of the tattoo. For most tattoos, multiple sessions are required. An interval of 6 to 8 weeks between each session allows for healing and fading.
The procedure is generally well tolerated. Some describe the feeling as that of having a rubber band snapped against your skin. A topical anesthetic may be applied to reduce discomfort during the session.
RECOVERY FROM TATTOO REMOVAL
During the 6 to 8 weeks after a session, your body will heal from the procedure and the tattoo will fade. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect each week.
Week 1
Immediately after the treatment, your skin will probably be red, swollen, and slightly raised. The sensation will likely be similar to that of a sunburn. After a few hours, that sensation will fade. Within 24-72 hours, you may experience blistering and scabbing. This is normal and not a cause for concern.
Week 2
During week 2, swelling should be significantly reduced. Your scabs will begin to flake off naturally. It’s important that you let this process happen rather than pick at them. At this point, pigments will start to rise to the surface and may make the skin look darker.
Weeks 3-4
By now, most of the superficial side effects should have cleared up. The redness and swelling will be gone. However, the skin may still appear slightly pink or lighter than surrounding areas. Significant fading of the tattoo is likely at this point.
Weeks 5-6
The treated area should be fully healed by now. You’ll observe continued fading of the tattoo during this period. Once fully healed, you can resume your normal skincare routines.
Weeks 7-8
Your body will continue to eliminate ink particles, resulting in further fading of the tattoo. After this much time, this skin should have returned to its normal texture. When it has, you’re ready for your next treatment session if one is needed.
AFTERCARE TIPS FOR A SPEEDY TATTOO REMOVAL RECOVERY
If your body is going to properly heal during the 6 to 8-week recovery time and the tattoo is going to fade as expected, proper aftercare is a must. Here are some tips for a thorough recovery:
- Keep the area clean: Use mild, unscented soap and lukewarm water to wash the area twice per day.
- Apply ointment: A thin layer of antibiotic ointment or aftercare product provided by your practitioner will help speed recovery.
- Protect from sun exposure: Sunlight can irritate the skin and slow recovery. Stay out of direct sunlight and use a high-SPF sunscreen when you must go outside.
- Avoid picking or scratching: Let scabs and blisters heal naturally to prevent scarring and infection.
- Stay hydrated: Water will help your body flush out the fragmented ink particles. Be sure to get plenty of it during the recovery period.
- Wear loose clothing: Protect the treated area from friction by wearing soft, breathable fabrics.
- Avoid strenuous exercise: Exercise can cause excessive sweating and skin irritation that can slow the recovery process.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking can slow down the healing process and potentially affect the results of your tattoo removal.
PLAN YOUR LASER TATTOO REMOVAL TODAY
If you have a tattoo you’d like removed, the tattoo removal services at Affiliated Dermatology can help. We have several locations to make your tattoo removal appointments convenient. For more information, contact us today.
Image Credit: Tanya Dol, Shutterstock
