ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO LASER TATTOO REMOVAL: WHAT TO EXPECT
Pre-treatment preparation and post-treatment care are vital steps of your Laser Tattoo Removal treatments, of which your treatment provider will discuss with you. We want to make the process as seamless for you as possible, so we've compiled the information you need to know, from preparation to what to expect and aftercare - we’ve got all you need to know right here!
TREATMENT PREPARATION
Taking care of your skin before your treatment is just as important as aftercare in ensuring the best possible results from your treatment. The following information will help you arrive prepared and ready for your appointment.
Daily
Use sunscreen with an SPF 30 or greater to protect against UV damage, preventing sunburn and a compromised skin barrier.
4 weeks pre-treatment
Avoid using fake tan & gradual tanning creams on the treatment area.
Avoid tanning and incidental sun exposure, including tanning beds/booths (including between treatments). The area must be covered and protected from the sun for a safe and effective treatment.
If you are having treatment on your hands, it is recommended to wear cotton gloves when driving and when exposed to the sun.
Avoid filler injections in the treatment area.
2 weeks pre-treatment
Prepare the skin with suitable skincare. This will include a tyrosinase inhibitor for Fitzpatrick Skin Types III and any skin prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIHP). Consult with your healthcare provider for personalised skincare recommendations.
Avoid prescription-strength exfoliant creams on the treatment area.
Avoid anti-wrinkle injections in the treatment area.
1 week pre-treatment
Avoid benzyl peroxide application in the treatment area
3 days pre-treatment
Avoid cosmeceutical Vitamin A, AHA’s & BHA’s, and Vitamin C application.
24 hours pre-treatment
Please shave the treatment area thoroughly if required.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Moderate discomfort is expected as a ‘flicking’ sensation. This sensation should be tolerable and can be alleviated with the use of cold packs if required.
Immediately after & up to 5 days post-treatment
A sunburn-like sensation
Swelling
Pinpoint bleeding
Itchy or dry skin
Bruising
Tenderness
Blisters can occur, especially on distal areas such as the hands and feet. To care for blisters, it is recommended to:
Elevate the area
Keep the area clean and covered
It is important not to pick, pop or touch the area as this can lead to scar tissue forming or infection.
1-3 weeks post-treatment
Transient textural changes can occur and will usually resolve within 6 months
Transient changes to skin pigmentation can occur weeks after initial treatment and will usually resolve within 6-12 months.
The use of tyrosinase inhibitors in skincare pre-treatment will assist with the prevention of pigmentation changes.
ABNORMAL REACTION
Please contact your treatment provider immediately if you experience any of these responses.
Excessive bleeding
Persistent redness/oedema
Blisters
Allergic or delayed inflammatory reactions.
TREATMENT AFTERCARE
It’s important to follow a strict aftercare routine to ensure proper healing. The following is a helpful guide to ensure the best possible results.
Daily
Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater
Avoid sun exposure to treated areas.
First 24 hours post-treatment (or until redness subsides)
Application of Solugel/Bepathan up to 4 times per day
Avoid exercise and activities that increase perspiration and body temperature.
Avoid extremely hot showers and baths
Elevate the area to reduce inflammation
Keep the area clean and covered with a dressing
Up to 7 days post-treatment
Application of Solugel/Bepanthan up to 2-3 times per day
Avoid the use of scented lotions or soaps
Avoid the use of pools, spas, and saunas
Up to 2 weeks post-treatment
Keep the treated area covered with a clean dressing until the skin has healed completely
Avoid exfoliating the area, this includes shaving, scrubbing or the use of mitts
Avoid scratching, picking, or rubbing the area. Avoid friction, such as clothing rubbing on the area
IMPORTANT
Contact your treatment provider if you notice any blisters, crusts or open areas. Allow these to heal spontaneously. If healing is delayed, a thin coating of antibiotic ointment may be advised.
Do not pick these areas. Picking may result in infection or scarring.
Your treatment provider will advise you when to schedule your next appointment, as different body areas require different treatment intervals. It is essential to adhere to this regimen for the best results.
Throughout your treatment course, it is essential to advise your treatment provider of any of the following, as these will influence treatment safety and efficacy:
Sun exposure or fake tan application on the treatment area within the past four weeks.
Any new health conditions, or if you have been unwell
Commencing any new medication (including short-term doses)
Changes to current medications or supplements
If you are trying to become pregnant.
If you're ready to book your Laser Tattoo Removal treatment or have more questions about the procedure, Chantelle will be happy to assist you further. To contact her directly through social media, phone or email, you can find her contact details here!