Is laser tattoo removal safe?
Laser tattoo removal is a very safe procedure, with decades of research on its safety and efficacy. While the lasers used for tattoo removals emit incredibly powerful bursts of energy, we don’t receive permanent damage because our skin receives such short individual bursts at a time. The bursts are just long enough to break up microscopic pigments without causing scarring. By analogy, we won’t get burned if we briefly pass our fingers over a flame. However, we do if we hold our fingers over the flame for longer than a brief pass. It’s the same thing with tattoo removal lasers.
When seeking Seattle laser tattoo removal, it is important that you seek a professional. Our Master Estheticians come with years of experience and have trained specially to use our laser. Having your tattoo removal in Seattle performed by an experienced Master Estheticians cuts the risk of side effects or complications.
Does Tacoma laser tattoo removal hurt?
The overwhelming majority of patients report a mild burning sensation at the site of the treatment. You can apply a numbing agent 30 minutes prior to the treatment if you are particularly sensitive to pain.
What should I do to prepare for my appointment?
To prepare for your session, we ask that you:
- Avoid sun exposure at the tattoo site for at least 4 weeks prior.
- Avoid exposure to any harsh chemicals or products for 2 weeks prior.
- Discontinue taking any photosensitizing medication for at least 6 months prior.
- Shave all hairs and clean your skin of all soaps and lotions immediately before your session.
Following this pre-treatment protocol will ensure a safe and effective procedure. Laser tattoo removal in Tacoma can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and therefore avoiding the sun will help keep your skin healthy after treatment.
What should I do after a removal session?
You may notice a “frosting” appearance at the site of the treatment immediately after your session. This is perfectly normal and is caused by tiny gas bubbles forming as a result of the high energy beam. Some patients may experience minor burning, swelling, redness and blistering for the first week. We will give you specific care instructions at each session, which include:
- Keeping the treatment area covered with sterile bandages and protected with a thin layer of antibiotic ointment for the first week. Do not pick any blisters or scabs; this could cause scarring.
- You may apply cold compresses if you experience any swelling.
- You may resume showering 2 hours after treatment, but avoid water pressure directly to the treatment site. Do not submerge until healed, to avoid infections.
- Wear SPF 25+ sunscreen for 3 months after treatment.
- Avoid lotion and makeup to the treatment area for 2 days after your session.
- Full healing is usually complete within a few weeks of treatment.
Our Master Estheticians:
The providers at Seattle Plastic Surgery that perform laser tattoo removal treatments are Master Estheticians. Our Master Estheticians have extensive knowledge of the skin and medical conditions that affect it. This allows them to provide comprehensive care to laser tattoo removal patients in the Seattle and Tacoma areas.
They will advise you to pre- and post-treatment care protocols and strategies so that you see the best results from your laser tattoo removal in Seattle and Tacoma. During your consultation, they can also create a custom treatment plan for you which can include the amount of treatments you will need, specific recovery protocol, and other aspects of the procedure.
Our Master Estheticians are dedicated to helping you remove your unwanted tattoo, as well as, providing the safest environment for the procedure. Our private treatment rooms all for a quiet, comfortable experience.
Laser tattoo removal is a quick and simple treatment that can permanently remove your tattoo. The winter months are often the best time for laser tattoo removal because of limited sun exposure and we tend to stay covered up.
