5 Things to Know Prior to Lasering off Your Tattoo

Everything in our lives is subject to change, including our own minds; we’re not the same people we were years ago. With a lot of the youth choosing to have tattoos, 25% of them, according to statistics, regret it later. The tattoo could be of an ex you want to forget, an interest you’ve grown out of or something you thought was cool at the time but just isn’t anymore. To solve the problem and remove that tattoo you don’t like anymore, tattoo cover up or laser tattoo removal is the most effective method. Still, there are things to consider before starting your laser treatment since It’s a long process, lasting from 8 to 15 sessions and it’s a bit costly too. Here’s what you need to know.

1. You Must Get Consultation Before You Start

It’s important to consult a physician before starting your laser treatment. They will be able to decide the best removal technique for you and make sure it’s suitable for your case depending on your skin, the tattoo’s size, and colors. Unfortunately, laser tattoo removal isn’t for everyone. If the reason you’re removing your tattoo is because you got a bad reaction to it, it means you’re probably going to be advised not to remove it by laser and should choose another method. A technician will perform a test on your skin to see its reaction to the laser and decide on the effective level of energy for the treatment. Get a free consultation from the experts  if you are to consider having a laser tattoo removal in Hendersonville, TN or tattoo removal in Bourbonnais, IL.

2. There Are Different Types of Laser Treatments

It’s important to know what laser treatment works better for you before going. Removing tattoos is harder for dark skin than it is with light skin, and easier for black ink than it is for other colors. So you should pick the right treatment depending on your skin color and tattoo colors as well. Generally, the PicoWay is the least damaging and is best for resistant black and red ink. The PicoSure is the standard, most effective, and most used one and it works with colors like green and blue, purple, and black. Physicians are available to offer this helpful service of answering your question about PicoSure hair removal online or if you contact the clinics that provide these services directly. According to them, it’s also the fastest method of hair removal as it requires fewer sessions. PicoPlus also treats red and black ink effectively but it stands out among the picosecond models because it treats darker skin as well. Rev-Lit SI laser is also known to effectively treat darker skin. 

3. Laser Tattoo Removal Is Uncomfortable

Some might say it’s painful and some might say it ‘just stings’ but the removal process is known to be uncomfortable. You might need to use painkillers, mostly non-Aspirin ones. It’s also likely the technician will apply ice and numbing cream. In some cases, like in sensitive areas, anesthetic might be used.

4. There Are Risks

Undergoing tattoo removal by laser has other risks other than experiencing pain during the session. There’s a risk of infection if the area is neglected after the treatment. You might be at risk of hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation is when the skin becomes lighter than the rest of the skin. Hyperpigmentation is the opposite where the skin is darker than the rest of the body. When removing cosmetic tattoos like lip liner, eyeliner, and eyebrows tattoos, there’s a risk of the area getting darker after the removal is done and in that case, additional sessions will solve that problem and the darkening will fade. 

5. You Can Minimize the Risk

There are things you must do and things to avoid after your laser appointment to ensure a smooth recovery. First of all, the area where you removed your tattoo should remain covered for the first few days. You must not soak it in water or go for a swim and you must use an antibiotic cream for at least a week. If the area in question itches, you must be wary since it could be a sign of infection and you should apply hydrocortisone cream. Don’t pick on the area and don’t pop the blisters unless it’s antiseptically. Blisters and a sunburn sensation are common for the first two weeks but If the discomfort persists after the two weeks are over, consult your doctor.  

You could have so many reasons to want to remove your tattoo and luckily, it’s easier, faster, and more effective than before. You’re good to go once you know which type of laser is best suited for your needs -depending on your skin color and ink color-  and once you test your skin reaction to the laser. Make sure to apply all anything necessary to minimize pain and make sure to take good care of your skin post-treatment to minimize any risks.