Laser tattoo removal is an effective and reliable way to remove ink from the skin. In the past, the process may not have been so good. Today’s process is definitely much more effective, allowing you to remove tattoos that you regret getting or simply to go back to having a clear slate. While there are many factors, such as the quality of the ink used in the tattoo, can have an impact on how well laser ink removal works, you might be surprised to know that sunning can have a dramatic impact on the results as well. Following are some of the most frequently asked questions about tanning and laser tattoo removal.
How Does the Sun Affects Laser Tattoo Removal?
When you spend time in the sun, the skin produces melanin, which produces the tanned coloring on the skin. Excess exposure to the sun often results in burning. However, even without obvious sunburns your skin becomes weaker and more likely to become damaged during certain procedures, such as laser tattoo removal.
After Spending a Vacation out in the Sun, Can I Have a Laser Tattoo Removal?
Not right away. You should really avoid the sun for at least six weeks before you have you tattoo removed by laser. Otherwise, you may have to have the process done several times before you notice results, which could damage your skin.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work on Tanned Skin?
Having your tattoo removed by laser will not work as well on tanned skin. This is because the melanin adds additional pigment to the skin, including the inked part of your tattoo. Extra pigment means extra laser tattoo removal session, which have the potential of harming the skin.
I only Have a Fake Tan, Will This Affect my Results?
Even a fake tan adds pigment to the skin. Topical products may contain toxins or other pigment-producing ingdients that could react adversely with the laser, potentially causing odd discolorations or other unwanted side effects. It is seriously recommended that you wait two weeks following your fake tanning product application to undergo laser treatment. Likewise, you will want to wait at least two weeks following your procedures before applying fake tanners to your skin.
Can I Go to the Tanning Bed after I Have My Tattoo Removed by Laser?
It is not recommended to go tanning at a sunbed following your treatment because of a chance of additional pigmentation if you need to undergo additional treatments. You may also experience discoloration of the treated area. If you must go, please wait at least four weeks.
What Should I Know about Sun Exposure Following Laser Tattoo Removal?
You should wait at least four weeks following your final laser tattoo removal treatment before spending any significant amount of time in the sun. Your skin will be very sensitive, and sun exposure could lead to adverse effects. Limit your exposure to 10 minutes a day or less.
How Will the Sun Affect the Area Treated by Laser?
The sun could cause burning of the treated area, and may even lead to scarring. ALso, melanin production may be uneven, especially if your skin has not fully healed following your procedure.
Key Points to Remember
- Avoid sunning or fake tanning before and after laser tattoo removal.
- Give yourself plenty of time to heal before getting tanned.
- Avoiding the sun will help you to get better results.
