Laser tattoo removal performed by a trained professional is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted body art. The use of lasers makes it possible to remove the most stubborn and complicated tattoos, even if the body art in question contains a vast array of colors.
Often and for various reasons like getting married or a new job, someone wants to reverse a tattoo. Many people get tattoos and live to regret the decision. Thankfully, body art isn’t permanent contrary to everything we’ve learned about them; still, they don’t magically disappear either. The tattoo removal process by laser is an outpatient course of treatment and requires no downtime, so it easily fits into a busy schedule.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
During a tattoo removal session, a specialist maneuvers the laser just over the skin. The ink particles absorb the pulsating light energy from the laser, causing them to get extremely hot and break apart. The light energy is so precise the laser leaves the surrounding skin unscathed. The difference between the two types of light energy is that the light energy from a tattoo removal laser pulsates, and the light energy from a laser pointer has a constant stream.
Preparation, Aftercare And Healing Time
Tattoo removal aftercare is vital to guarantee optimal results and minimize healing times. Some patients don’t realize how much damage occurs due to the lack of care for the newly lasered, delicate skin.
Following these simple guidelines aid in speeding up healing and help the tattoo removal process advance at the proper pace:
- In preparation, refrain from any trips to the tanning bed or exposing the area to direct sunlight for at least a month before the first laser session.
- Keep the lasered area covered with an over the counter antibiotic and non-stick dressing for a minimum of 48 hours. Once the two days are up, the patient no longer should keep the area covered up as it needs air to promote healing. Don’t pick scabbing.
- Aim to keep the area dry by avoiding saunas, swimming pools, hot baths, or any other moisture that could harbor bacteria, further increasing the chances of infection.
- Stay away from applying any topical substances to the lasered surface that could irritate such as toners, lotions, creams, or makeup.
- When removing a tattoo, the laser causes trauma to the skin. Avoid any activities that could bump the area and cause further injury.
- Apply a cold compress wrapped in a soft hand towel to reduce inflammation if the area feels inflamed or sore.
Typically, visits run five to eight weeks apart. Total visits vary on the tattoo’s color, size, intricacy, and how well site maintenance is between sessions. Be mindful that everyone breaks down ink in the epidermis differently, but it usually occurs within five weeks. The remaining few weeks allow the skin to heal completely. Performing sessions too close together impede healing due to repetitive trauma to the site and cause the process to take longer.