Blog post -
Post-care tips and guide after your first Picolaser Tattoo Removal session
As with getting a tattoo, Picolaser Tattoo Removal requires commitment.
The number of sessions involved in a laser tattoo removal treatment ranges from 6 to 12 or more. One reason is that the lymphatic system can't flush away all of the broken-down pigments at once. Another reason is that the skin is very sensitive, so it needs to recover from trauma. Factors that contribute to the number of sessions required also include colour, density and size of the tattoo.
Improvements can be seen after the first session, so do your bit in taking care of the area between sessions.
Aftercare is essential in minimising the possibilities of issues arising post-laser tattoo removal treatment.
Do's and Don'ts Following Picolaser Tattoo Removal
Keep the Treated Area Dry and Clean
Ensure that the skin is treated dry and clean. Use a soft towel to pat the area after cleaning. Antibiotic ointment should be applied as directed, and a bandage should be kept over the area during the first 72 hours following treatment. Follow your doctor's advice and raise any concerns you may have regarding recovery.
Don't Soak in the Tub
A relaxing soak in a bathtub might be tempting, but avoid it at least for the first three days post-removal. The critical thing to remember is to keep the treated area dry, so avoid water sports-related activities like swimming or water polo. In the shower, try not to use highly pressurised water to prevent it from hitting the treated area. Instead, opt for a tepid shower.
Minimise Sun Exposure
Minimising sun exposure on the skin is also a must. Try not to head outdoors too much, and if you must, protect your skin, especially the treated area. Avoid other sources of UV rays, like tanning beds, as well.
Go for a Walk
Go for walks, as this simple activity helps boost your immune system, among other benefits. Improved blood circulation definitely contributes to the overall well-being of the body, and the increased blood flow to the treated area can facilitate better recovery.
Stop Living With Regret
Getting a tattoo is exciting, but don't be too disheartened should you later realise that it wasn't actually a good idea. Laser tattoo removal treatment is widely available today, and with it, a tattoo that has overstayed its welcome doesn't have to be a permanent regret of a lifetime anymore.
What to know about tattoos on dark skin
Although the tattooing and aftercare procedure is the same regardless of skin tone, people with darker skin may have a slightly higher risk of scarring. The common side effect is keloids.
Keloids are formed due to the body's response to an injury, in this case, a tattoo, as well as when the skin is overworked and excessively damaged. They have a smooth and shiny appearance and are larger in size than the original injury.
FAQ Dr Ivan Puah receives during his tattoo laser removal consultation
What tattoo colours can a Picolaser Tattoo Removal remove from the skin?
Generally, most of the colours can be treated. The difference is in the number of sessions that may be needed. Different colour tattoos absorb laser light differently and will require lasers of different spectrums to treat effectively.
How painful is laser tattoo removal?
A patient can expect some minor discomfort. Generally, if they can withstand the pain of getting tattooed, they can also bear the discomfort of the removal process.
Which part of the body is most painful during tattoo removal?
Sensitive areas such as the armpits will affect the level of discomfort involved. The hands and feet have more touch receptors and nerve endings, which is why they are sensitive areas. Leaner areas where ink is closer to the bone can present a slightly more discomforting experience because there is less fat.
Does it get easier over time?
Like getting a tattoo, the first experience is usually the most discomforting for an individual. With more sessions, your pain threshold increases and by the third or fourth session, the discomfort is significantly less than in the first.
What is the cost of a laser tattoo removal?
Cost is dependent on the attributes of the tattoo, its location, and other factors. This will be discussed during the consultation.
Are old tattoos easier to remove?
Since older tattoos are likely to have already experienced fading, they are generally easier to remove and require fewer sessions.
What is the most intricate colour tattoo to remove?
These would be yellow, purple, turquoise and fluorescent dyes, while dark and green are the easiest to remove. This is because different dyes respond to different light wavelengths.
Does Picolaser Tattoo Removal leave scars?
Although it is uncommon, it is still possible. Hence, a doctor's experience is critical to avoid complications and unwanted side effects.
Can you remove a tattoo yourself?
It is highly not recommended to do DIY tattoo removal and should be carried out by medical doctors who are trained in performing laser tattoo removal treatments.