One of the most common concerns people have before committing to laser tattoo removal is worrying whether or not tattoo removal leaves scars or blisters.
In recent years, the technology used for laser tattoo removal has advanced significantly, and the risk of ending up with tattoo removal scars or blisters has reduced considerably. Tattoo removal lasers are now faster, cheaper, and more effective than in previous years. But, does that mean tattoo removal scars and blisters are no longer something you should worry about at all?
Many people are concerned about scars and blisters resulting from laser tattoo removal because they want their skin to look as natural as possible once the process is said and done. This is not an unreasonable expectation. Nobody wants to pay for a tattoo to be removed only to be left with damaged skin, which makes one regret the entire process. The process of tattoo removal is a unique one, and even though scarring is rare, there are extra steps you can take to ensure your skin looks and heals properly.
Preventing tattoo removal scars and blisters
Educate yourself on the laser tattoo removal process
Do the research and ask questions before you do anything else. Patients informed in all areas of laser tattoo removal are more likely to continue treatment, handle side effects properly, and be satisfied with their tattoo removal experience. However, expectations should be realistic, and you should be encouraged by the tattoo removal process as you learn how to get the best results and ensure your skin remains happy and healthy.
Hire a trained professional
When a trained professional doesn’t perform laser tattoo removal or uses outdated technology, there is a greater risk for tattoo removal scars. Older equipment can quickly heat the skin tissue to the point of causing permanent damage and scarring. Newer lasers shatter ink particles more efficiently with shorter pulses of light, leaving the surrounding skin unharmed.
It’s a good idea to seek out a registered nurse or physician who has the experience and expertise to ensure the tattoo removal process doesn’t result in pain or scarring. The right equipment in the hands of a well-trained professional will reduce your risk of tattoo removal scars exponentially. A properly trained and experienced technician will want to gather specific information from you during your initial consultation. They will then determine your skin type and ink density which will help them adjust the laser settings accordingly for your treatments. Be curious, be cautious, and ask questions until you have little or no doubt in your mind you’ve found the right person for the job.
Religiously follow laser tattoo removal aftercare instructions
Proper laser tattoo removal aftercare is crucial for preventing laser tattoo removal scars or blisters. These details will be explained to you in detail by your technician. Don’t rush to the finish line. Allow proper healing time in between treatments. Expect that time to be between 4 and 8 weeks. Patience will return better overall results. The more time you allow your skin to heal, the less chance you’ll experience side effects like scars or blisters.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated by drinking lots of water will help your skin before and after your treatments as well. This will speed up the healing process and your skin will thank you for it later.
Don’t pop, pick, or itch
Blistering is normal and a sign your immune system is doing its job to heal the affected area by removing the ink from your skin, it’s just part of the healing process. Blisters are most likely to appear after your first couple of treatments due to ink density, but do not pop them! If they do pop, let the skin flake off on its own. Also, do not pick or itch the skin away. Picking and itching can ultimately lead to scarring or infection.
Keep it clean
Your treatment site needs to be kept clean, but that does not mean it must be kept covered. That said, dirt or grime can interfere with the healing process, inducing skin-related side effects. Therefore, we recommend gently cleaning the area with light, mild or anti-bacterial soap and water a few times a day. Avoid scented soaps; scented soaps can irritate and/or inflame the healing skin. We even suggest avoiding high pulsating water around the healing area.
Do not soak or swim in baths or hot tubs until the blister or scabs are fully healed. Areas of water contain bacteria that can invade the healing process, leading to infection and scarring.
Stay out of the sun
It’s no secret that the sun and UV light is the enemy of healthy skin. The sun can also increase blistering and slow down the healing process. In addition, your skin will be sensitive to direct sunlight for several weeks or even months after your treatments.
If you plan on going outside, keep treated areas covered to avoid burning or related scarring. Carry at least an SPF 25 sunblock with you at all times to protect the treated area as much as possible. Be aware — most sunblocks contain fragrances that can affect the healing process. Look for a sunscreen that contains zinc. Wear it even if your clothes cover the treated area as the sun can penetrate through clothing.
Alcohol and smoking are not your friends
Alcohol can dehydrate your skin and impede the ability of your kidneys and liver to flush out ink. Ensure your vital organs are operating at maximum capacity by drinking more water instead. You’ll feel better and have faster results.
Smoking can reduce the success of tattoo removal by as much as 70%. Smoking restricts circulation, lowering the chance that the shattered ink particles will be carried away from the tattoo. This results in slower fading and a longer recovery time.
