Pre-Treatment Instructions

Taking the right steps before your appointment helps reduce the risk of side effects and supports effective ink removal.

Tattoo Age Requirement

Your tattoo must be at least 12 weeks old before it can be safely treated with laser. This ensures the skin has fully healed and stabilized.

Avoid Sun Exposure & Tanning (14 Days Prior)

Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanning products for at least 2 weeks before your session. Tanned or sunburned skin increases the risk of burns and pigment changes.

Shave the Treatment Area (If Hair Is Present)

If the area being treated has hair, shave it the day before or the morning of your appointment. Avoid waxing, plucking, or depilatory creams.

Post-Treatment Expectations

Laser tattoo removal is a gradual process, and your skin may go through several temporary changes as it heals. Understanding what’s normal can help you feel more confident and comfortable during your treatment journey.

Redness, Swelling & Warmth (First 24–48 Hours)

The treated area will likely appear red, slightly swollen, and feel warm—similar to a sunburn. This is normal and typically fades within a couple of days.

Mild Discomfort or Tenderness

You may feel a stinging or tingling sensation, and the area might be sensitive to touch. Most clients compare this to a mild sunburn or rug burn sensation. A cool compress can help soothe any discomfort.

Blistering or Scabbing (Within the First Few Days)

Blisters are common and expected, especially with darker ink or higher energy treatments.

  • Do not pop or pock blisters-—this can increase the risk of infection or scarring.
  • As healing progresses, you may notice scabbing or crusting. This is part of the natural healing process. Keep the area moisturized and protected with a non-stick dressing.
Itching & Dryness (3–7 Days)

Itching can be a sign of healing as the skin begins to regenerate. Apply a gentle moisturizer or aloe vera to soothe any dryness or tightness.

Fading Over Time (Weeks to Months)

Tattoo ink is broken down by the laser and then flushed out by your body’s immune system.

  • Fading is gradual and varies by ink color, location, age of tattoo, and your individual metabolism.
  • Most clients see visible improvement after a few sessions, but full results develop over several months.
Shedding of Ink (7–14 Days Post-Treatment)

You may see light flaking, peeling, or small dark fragments of ink surfacing as your body begins to eliminate pigment. This is completely normal.

Increased Sun Sensitivity

Your skin will be more sensitive to UV light after treatment. Protect the area by:

  • Avoiding direct sun exposure.
  • Wearing protective clothing.
  • Applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily once fully healed.

Post-Treatment Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for healing and preventing complications.

Soothe with a Cool Compress (As Needed)

Mild redness, warmth, or discomfort is normal. Apply a cool compress to the area to relieve irritation if necessary.

Avoid Heat and Friction (48 Hours)

For 48 hours after treatment, avoid:

  • Hot showers and baths.
  • Saunas or steam rooms.
  • Intense exercise or sweating,

These can increase inflammation and slow the healing process.

Skip Active Skincare (7 Days)

Do not apply active ingredients such as retinoids, acids, or exfoliants to the treated area for 7 days after treatment.

Clean & Dress the Area Properly
  • Cleanse gently: Wash the area twice daily with a mild soap and lukewarm water. Gently pat dry with a clean towel.
  • Protect the skin: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (or similar occlusive ointment) and cover it with a non-stick dressing like Tegaderm. Keep the area protected until it has fully healed.
  • No soaking: Avoid submerging the treated area in water (baths, pools, hot tubs) until healing is complete. Showers are okay.
Blistering or Scabbing

Blisters or light scabbing may occur. Do not pop or pick. Keep the area moisturized and covered until fully healed to avoid infection or scarring.

Daily Sun Protection (Once Healed)

After the skin has healed, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily to the area. This helps prevent pigmentation changes and supports skin recovery between treatments.

  • Frequency of Treatment

    Tattoo removal is a process that takes time and consistency:

    • Frequency: sessions are typically spaced every 8 weeks
    • Total number: The number of treatments needed depends on tattoo size, color, ink depth, and your skin’s response. Your provider will assess your progress and adjust the plan as needed.