Tattoo Removal Healing Process
Not every tattoo ends up looking as we expect, and some individuals who get tattoos may otherwise realize later on that they would rather not have a specific tattoo on their body. Tattoo removal in NYC provides individuals with the choice to remove an unwanted tattoo by undergoing a simple, effective process using state-of-the-art tattoo removal technology.
After you have undergone your tattoo removal procedure, it is important but also helpful for your own sake to be aware of what you can expect during the healing process. Although laser technology such as PicoSure has made innovative strides as an increasingly efficient tattoo removal method, there are still some effects that you may notice following your procedure.
PicoSure Tattoo Removal Post-Care
After you have visited your trusted dermatologist in NYC, determined the PicoSure removal process is ideal for your needs, and undergone the procedure, there are a few common effects that you may notice. The healing process following PicoSure tattoo removal typically lasts about 14 days.
The most common observable effects that you may experience during your laser tattoo removal aftercare process include mild swelling across the treated area, as well as some redness.
Common side effects of laser tattoo removal include:
- Bruising between 1-3 days post-treatment
- Tingling sensations (similar to sunburn)
- Blisters, which may dry into scabs
- Itching
- Mild skin discoloration
If you experience these effects, it is important to remember that these are common. Some of the symptoms, including post-treatment blisters, actually indicate that your body is healing as it should. Although these effects may be uncomfortable, they may also positively signal your skin’s adaptability and its ability to adequately respond to the treatment.
In addition, it is also important to note that, directly following the procedure, the skin that has been treated will turn a white frost color. So do not be alarmed—this is normal. In most cases, this will only last a few minutes, but be sure to contact your dermatologist in NYC if you have any concerns.
What Else Can I Expect Within the First Few Days?
Your treated skin will be the most tender the first few days after receiving your procedure of laser tattoo removal in NYC. Your practitioner will have placed a bandage over the treated area, and it is important to not fuss with this as it can irritate the treated skin.
You will want to wait until day 2 or at least 24 hours after you have undergone the procedure before showering or soaking your skin. When you do shower, try to keep the treated skin out of the direct stream of water.
Following the first day of keeping the bandage secured on your skin, you will want to keep the skin uncovered as much as possible during the second day. This will allow the healing area to breathe. Do try to keep the treated area clean to the best of your ability.
Blisters may develop on the treated area between one and three days following your procedure. This is normal. However, do not pick or otherwise irritate these blisters, as they will drain and dry into scabs on their own. Avoiding unnecessary contact with the scabs is recommended as well to avoid irritating the skin. These scabs commonly fall off between 10 – 14 days after your treatment.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Although it would certainly be preferable for a single treatment to be enough to completely remove your tattoo, this is not always the case. Depending on the size of the tattoo, as well as other factors such as the type of ink, the location of the tattoo on your body, lifestyle habits, and other relevant variables, you may need more than one tattoo removal treatment to completely remove the tattoo.
Your dermatologist will be able to help you determine an appropriate treatment regime based on your individual needs during your consultation.
General Tips Following Your Laser Tattoo Removal in NYC
Lastly, to ensure that your treated skin heals properly and with the least amount of discomfort following your PicoSure tattoo removal in NYC, here are some general tips you may wish to keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes when you go in for your procedure
- Avoid shaving the treated areas until the skin is completely healed
- Do not soak in baths, hot tubs, or pools until the skin has completely healed
- Consider purchasing lotion or moisturizer for the itching you may experience (you may ask your dermatologist for recommendations)
- Do not apply makeup or any other potentially irritating product onto the healing skin
- Use sunscreen, as your treated skin may be particularly sensitive to sunlight following the treatment
Schedule Your Laser Tattoo Removal Consultation Today
Our team of aestheticians and board-certified Dermatologists can help you permanently remove your unwanted tattoos.
Call (212) 444-8204 or contact us here to schedule your consultation.
Arash Akhavan, MD is founder and owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group, one of the top centers for cosmetic procedures in New York City for over a decade. Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD is a Board Certified Dermatologist and an Associate Professor at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Akhavan is a Castle Connolly Top Doc, New York Magazine Best Doctor, and Super Doctor featured in The New York Times. Dr. Akhavan is a key opinion leader that has been featured on hundreds of media publications including The New York Times, Allure, Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, ABC News, Fox News, Fox 5, NY1, WPIX, and more. He has been featured on nationally syndicated television programs such as The Doctors.
Dr. Akhavan serves as an educator and lecturer for multiple aesthetic device and injectable companies. This allows his office access to newer technologies at an earlier date than other offices, as well as a higher level of expertise in the use of these devices. This, in turn, translates to more effective and safer treatments for our patients.
