Laser Tattoo Removal success is dependent on the laser technician providing the correct treatment, AND how you follow the after care instructions. Everyone has seen stories of laser tattoo removal failures, that is why you should only trust experienced professionals and ALWAYS follow the after care instructions. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts that you need to know to ensure your success!
Pre-Treatment Do’s & Don’ts
Do apply sunblock to the area being treated even under clothes for 4 weeks prior to your appointment.
Don’t expose the area to be treated to excessive sun/tanning beds/spray tan or self-tanners for at least 4 weeks prior to your appointment.
Do moisturize the area to be treated twice a day for at least a week prior to your appointment to ensure the skin is healthy.
Don’t come to your appointment with unhealthy skin. The area being treated cannot have any cuts, scratches or cracks, it must be fully intact and healthy.
Do shave the area the day prior to your appointment.
Don’t shave the area the same day as treatment or the treatment may feel more sensitive as the pores are open. By shaving the day prior it ensures that the pores are closed and a normal treatment can be expected.
Do drink a liter of water and eat a meal prior to your appointment.
Don’t come to your appointment on an empty stomach and dehydrated. We want you as comfortable as possible during your treatment, a fueled and nourished body will handle the treatment much easier than if you are hungry and thirsty.
Post-treatment Do’s & Don’ts
Do apply ice and elevate the treated area the night of treatment.
Don’t participate in physical activities that causes sweating, increase heart rate or increase body temperature for 24 post treatment. Also, don’t sit in a hot tub or sauna for 24 hours after your treatment.
Do clean the treated area with antibacterial soap (clear of any scents or perfumes), and warm water 3 times a day for 2 weeks. To avoid infection, please cover the treated area securely if the area is to be exposed to dirt or bacteria, and disinfect promptly afterwards until the treated area is 100% healed.
Don’t put the treated area under heavy spraying water. Always treat the treated area kindly and gently until it is healed.
Do apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor on the treated area, and cover with a non-stick pad until the treated area is healed (usually between 3 days to 2 weeks).
Don’t apply a thick layer of Aquaphor on the treated area, or you run the risk of creating an infection, suffocating the skin and scarring. If scabs do appear, DO NOT pick them.
Do drink a gallon of water a day, everyday to help flush out the fragmented ink.
Don’t drink an excessive amount of carbonated drinks, alcohol or smoke while healing. Your body will be slowed down and it will delay your fading and healing process.
Do apply sunblock twice a day after the area is completely healed and until your next appointment. I recommend a generic brand of SPF 30. The sunblock will aid in eliminating the fragmented ink.
Don’t expose the treated area to direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks after treatment or you are at risk for obtaining hypo- or hyper-pigmentation spots.
Do apply cold compresses, hydro-cortisone cream or benadryl if the area becomes itchy.
Don’t scratch or itch the area until it is completely healed.
Do allow blisters to heal on their own. If you do have blisters, continue to cover them with a non-stick pad until they are gone.
Don’t pop the blisters! Popping blisters increases the risk of infection and possible scarring.
Do increase circulation in the treated area. Try to gently massage the area 5-10 minutes a day, take walks or any activity that gets your blood pumping. Increasing your circulation will help your lymphatic system to remove the fragmented ink.
Don’t become a couch potato. The better your circulation, the faster your results!!
Remember, we are committed to your success but we need your help too!
Dawn Mount
