Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare Tips

So, you got rid of that embarrassing tattoo from a time you’d rather forget, but what about laser tattoo removal aftercare?

When you undergo laser tattoo removal at Este Medical, your clinician will advise you of the best aftercare for laser tattoo removal, but if you need a little recap then check out the info below.  

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Before we get going with aftercare tips, if you’re wondering whether the actual process of getting your tattoo removed is going to be painful, then rest assured it won’t hurt as much as the actual tattoo itself did.

People liken the pain to something a little like sunburn, or rubber bands being flicked on your skin. If you’ve managed the experience of getting a tattoo, you should be fine when it comes to getting it removed.

Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare Instructions

When you get an old tattoo removed by laser, your skin is exposed to extremely powerful lasers. Our skin has the ability to withstand this technology, but it’s wise to be as cautious as possible when it comes to aftercare.

If you don’t follow the specific laser tattoo removal aftercare UK tips provided by your clinician, then you could leave yourself open to developing -

• Hyperpigmentation
• Skin irritation
• An infection of the lasered area

So, let’s look at the best things you can do to help avoid these issues.

The First Two Days

The first two days after having your tattoo removed by laser are paramount in your skin’s recovery. To help avoid any skin irritation or problems developing with the area, it’s wise to wear soft, loose-fitting clothes.

Opt for light, breathable fabrics such as 100% cotton. Steer clear of any fabrics that have an itchy feel to them – such as wool for example.

To help ensure your skin is protected, your clinician may dress your old tattoo with a bandage dressing. This isn’t always necessary, and is done on a case-by-case basis.

If you do have a dressing or bandage, then make sure you leave it alone and don’t pick at it as this could cause extra irritation. Only take your dressing off once you have been told it’s safe to do so.

Clean Up

Hygiene is key when it comes to tattoo laser removal aftercare UK. During the healing stage, you’ll need to keep the area treated, clean.

You don’t need to go overboard with a special laser tattoo removal aftercare cream at this stage, just rinse with warm water and gently pat dry if needed.

Your clinician may have given you an antibacterial cream to apply, if this is the case then you can use this laser tattoo removal aftercare cream as advised.

Make sure you absolutely avoid exposing the skin that’s been treated to any potential irritants such as perfumes, body sprays, and soaps.

Leave Scabs Alone

Everyone knows how tempting scabs can be to pick, but seriously, if you want your skin to heal as best it can, don’t pick or rub at any scabs or crusting skin that appears in the area. Scabs are all part of your skin’s healthy healing process so let your skin do its job and don’t intervene.

Scabs form so that your skin is protected from dirt and microbes that could get into the healing skin and cause infection. Scabs and skin that blisters are a common part of the healing process when it comes to tattoo removal, but if you’re at all worried or something is causing you discomfort, speak to your specialist at Este who’ll be able to help.

If you’re worried about blisters, don’t be – they're also part of your skin’s healing process. The best way to deal with them is to leave them alone, avoid placing them under any amount of pressure, and keep them out of hot tubs or showers.

If you want to help relieve any discomfort from the blisters, an ice pack wrapped in cloth can be used, or try gently smoothing on an aloe vera gel.

Stick to the Shade

Post-treatment, you should aim to keep your treated skin out of the sun. If you have to go out in it, layer up with clothing, and/or add a high SPF suncream. Look for suncream with good UVA and UVB protection.

You’ll need to stay out of the sun for at least the first four weeks after your tattoo removal. This will give your skin the best chance of a full recovery and avoid any potentially harmful rays that could lead to hyperpigmentation.

And now for a few extra questions, that might be preying on your mind...

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Leave Scars?

Permanent scarring shouldn’t occur if you are treated with the correct laser, by qualified clinicians. During the healing process your skin may scab and blister, and you need to avoid picking or irritating those if you want to have smooth, clear skin post-treatment.

Can you Tattoo Over Laser Tattoo Removal?

Yes, if the old ink from your tattoo has faded and your skin has healed, then it’s possible to have another tattoo in the same place. You’d need to wait for healing to be complete, and at least eight weeks before a new one can be considered.

How Long After Laser Tattoo Removal will Tattoo Fade?

You’ll need multiple laser treatments to permanently remove your unwanted tattoo. How long it takes for your tattoo to fade differs from person to person. In general, you should expect to see your tattoo start to fade around two to three weeks post treatment.

We hope this guide has been handy in helping you understand the best way to deal with laser tattoo removal aftercare. As with anytime when you’re healing, it’s wise to rest up, drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy diet to boost your immunity.

If you have any further questions, please get in touch with the team at Este who’ll be happy to advise.