Aftercare for Tattoo Removal
Precautions to take before your light-based treatment:
NO SUN EXPOSURE, tanning beds and sunless tanning cream for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Sun exposure decreases the effectiveness of the laser treatment and can increase the chance of post treatment complications. Use a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 40 or higher. Zinc oxide. Keep the area covered from the sun!
We CAN NOT treat the tattoo if you are on photo sensitizing medications (antibiotics), or if you are pregnant.
Instructions following your laser treatment: Although the PicoSure laser is very gentle on the skin, the superficial blisters and overall treatment area must be supported with proper care to ensure that the maximum amount of ink is removed and that the skin itself remains healthy and resilient throughout the series of treatments. Be GOOD to yourself and your skin.
Restoration Balm is available online or in office for $12 (1oz), $24 (2oz), or $36 (3oz)
Cleanse the treated area at least daily with water and mild soap, and then pat the area dry.
Do not pick, poke, or scratch the treated area. Slap it, don’t scratch it.
Do not exercise rigorously for 24 hours post-treatment. Rest and elevate area if possible.
Discomfort may be relieved by ice packs and/or an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Ibuprofen. The area can be sore and uncomfortable for up to a week post treatment.
Ice packs, 20 minutes of on, 20 minutes off. Ice packs on the area helps prevent blisters, helps swelling, and makes it feel better. For as long as needed post treatment!!!
If crusting/scabbing occurs, do not shave, or pick area. Apply Restoration Balm (tattoo removal ointment) to the area at least once a day. Keep the area clean and moist, and let the crusting/scabbing resolve on its own. Lotion works too. Keep it natural, and/or organic.
Avoid contact sports or any other activity that could cause injury of the treated area.
Avoid swimming, soaking, or using hot tubs/whirlpools until the skin heals. (About 1 week)
Contact me and/or a physician if there is any indication of infection (redness, tenderness, or pus).
Apply a non-stick pad over the tattoo ONLY IF the tattoo is being rubbed by clothing or shoes.
If blistering occurs, keep the area clean, apply hydrocortisone cream
If blisters are bigger than a dime, you may pop them with a sterile needle. Or leave them, it is up to you.
Your skin will continue to heal, try to keep the skin intact, let it fall off naturally.
