Considering laser tattoo removal? Are you tired of that tattoo you got years ago that no longer represents who you are today? Perhaps your tattoo that you got in the heat of the moment for your partner is now a painful reminder of how your relationship failed.
Nevertheless, do you regret getting the tattoo and wish it to disappear?
You are not alone! Many people have tattoos they have outgrown and don’t want anymore.
The good news is that you no longer have to live with this regrettable ink on your skin forever. To erase the past and embrace the present, laser tattoo removal is the best option.
This is an advanced and effective way to get rid of unwanted tattoos. Unlike other methods, such as surgical excision and creams, laser tattoo removal is a safe, non-invasive, and highly successful way to lighten or completely remove tattoos of all sizes and shapes.
Why Opt for Laser Tattoo Removal
Precision
Laser technology targets the ink in your skin with accuracy. It breaks down the ink into tiny particles, making it easier for your body to eliminate them over time naturally.
In case you are wondering, the removal process is far less painful than getting a tattoo. Think of it as a snap of a rubber band against your skin. The minimal pain you feel can be numbed with creams to make you more comfortable.
Now that you know the basics of laser tattoo removal, let’s take a look at its dos and don’ts:
Dos of Laser Tattoo Removal
Do Protect Your Skin from the Sun Before the Removal
Ultraviolet rays darken your skin color, which makes it difficult for the laser to target melanin. This is why it is recommended to apply sunblock on the tattoo and keep it covered for at least 6 weeks before the removal.
Do Stay Hydrated
You have probably heard and read that drinking water gives your skin a healthy glow. According to Harvard Medical School, women should drink around 11.5 cups of water daily and men 15.5 cups. When it comes to tattoo removal aftercare, the handheld device fragments the ink, filtering it out through the lymphatic system. This triggers your immune system. By staying hydrated, you maintain the immune system, helping the ink flush out.
Do Limit Physical Activity
Exercising before the removal speeds up the process as it increases blood circulation and allows the laser to target the ink easily. However, you should avoid excessive exercise because it swells up the skin and makes it difficult to gauge where the tattoo ends and starts. Also, avoid exercising 24 hours after the removal because sweat can irritate the skin and leave lines.
Do Moisturize the Tattoo
It’s important for the tattooed and surrounding skin to be healthy for the removal. So, moisturize twice daily for at least a week before coming to your appointment.
Do Soothe the Skin with Ice
After the removal, you will experience the same irritation that you do when you get a tattoo. To soothe the site, ice the area for three minutes with 15 to 20 minutes gaps until you feel relief from the pain.
Do Tell the Technician About Any Allergic Reactions
Tattoo ink contains different minerals. For example, blue has cobalt, red has mercury, and black has iron oxide. If you experienced an allergic reaction while getting the tattoo, chances are you will have the same reaction while getting it removed. There have been reports of clients going through anaphylactic shock during the process, so be transparent with your dermatologist.
Don’ts of Laser Tattoo Removal
Don't Expect Immediate Results
Have realistic expectations about the results. Complete removal takes patience and time. With larger and more complex tattoos, it’s possible you might not get a clean slate.
Don’t Consume Alcohol
Alcohol slows down the healing process. It causes dehydration, which, if you remember, slows down the immune function. So, satisfy your thirst with water and fresh fruit juices.
Don't Pick at Healing Skin
You might see scabs or your skin peeling after the removal. Resist the urge to pick at it! Unlike pimple popping, your finger will do more damage to your skin and leave scars. It can also cause complications, such as an infection.
Don’t Apply Healing Balms
No matter how much your skin itches or irritates you, refrain from applying healing balms. These form a thick layer on the skin, suffocating it and slowing the healing process. Moreover, they can also cause pus-filled pockets in the skin.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking slows down the healing process and impacts the immune system. This increases the number of removal sessions you have to undergo. Smoking also leads to poor blood circulation, which impacts oxygen and nutrients delivery to the treated area. As a result, the tattoo fades slowly.
Don't Rush Between Sessions
Avoid scheduling sessions too close together. Your skin needs time to recover, typically several weeks. Follow your dermatologist’s advice and refrain from going to another provider. Your haste might leave permanent scars on your skin.
If you have any questions or concerns about the process, don’t hesitate to ask your dermatologist for guidance or clarification. They should be available to address your queries and ensure your comfort.
In conclusion, removing your tattoo is neither lengthy nor painful. However, its effectiveness depends on various things, such as the tattoo's color (black-colored tattoos are easier to remove than yellow and purple tattoos) and your skin tone (the darker your skin tone, the more challenging the removal process is).
Elevate the area to promote circulation if you see excessive swelling at the removal site. If you have a skincare routine, make sure to share the names of the products you use with your dermatologist to ensure they won’t slow down the healing process. Proper aftercare is essential and determines how your skin will feel and look after the removal.
Suncoast Skin Solutions has a team of board-certified dermatologists well-versed in cosmetic dermatology. Get your tattoo removed by an expert with state-of-the-art technology. For more information about the tattoo removal process, click here
SunCoast Skin Solutions Dermatology offices are located in Tampa / Hillsborough, St. Pete / Pinellas County, Brandon, Lutz, Winter Haven, Largo, Hudson, Leesburg, Jupiter, Lecanto, Riverview, Brooksville, Clearwater, Ocala, Palm Harbor, Daytona Beach, Sarasota, Punta Gorda, Seminole, (Inverness, Port Charlette, Port Saint Lucie coming soon), Florida. Contact us at 1-844-786-3376 or click here.
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