The Basics of Tattoo Removal

Getting tattooed is already considered perfectly normal, even at workspaces. However, tattoo removal vendors are still knee deep in business - a lot of people regret having a tattoo and opt for removal. Although the inked lot knows perfectly well how to take care of their brand-new tat, treatment after tattoo removal procedures isn't the same thing as taking care of your skin after getting inked. Here are some post-treatment recommendations for tattoo removal.

Getting it Removed

First, let's talk about the procedure itself. The way it works is that it eliminates your tattoo bearing minimal side effects -lasers are used to break up the pigment colors of the tattoo, with a high-intensity light beam. Depending on the size, color and type (whether it was done by an amateur or a professional), tattoo removal efficiency, as well as the cost may vary. This process may take from 2-4 sessions, up to as many as 10. Bear in mind that large sleeve tattoos are extremely difficult to get rid of.

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Choose Carefully

Just as you would do so for your tattoo parlor, you should pick your laser tattoo removal clinic carefully. If the reason for removal is based on the fact that you chose an amateur for getting inked, this should serve as a lesson for both your laser removal, as well as for your future tattoo plans. Going with the experts is always a smart choice.

Don't Panic

After the procedure, there are some things you may or may not see on your scar. The whitening of the area, also known as "laser snow" (sounds cooler than it really is) is quite normal. Blisters are also to be expected, especially within 8-72 hours post treatment. These can range from small to large, but whatever the case is, you are definitely not to pop them, seeing as how these are your skin's way of providing protective covering - they are there for a reason. Should the blisters grow too large, using a sterilized needle to drain them is allowed, but leaving the skin on is recommended. After a while, the affected area will turn into a scab and once it comes off, the skin below will be pale pink.

Post-Procedure Skin Care

It is very important that you keep the treated area dry, clean and covered with a sterilized dressing at the very least for the first 3 days after the procedure. You can use soap and water for cleaning, but you should tap the area dry with a clean towel. Tattoo removal experts will either provide you with an antibiotic ointment, or prescribe it and you should apply this up to three times a day within the first three days after the treatment. The affected area may feel hot after the treatment and using cool compresses is advised to both reduce discomfort, as well as inflammation. Keep in mind, however, that the application times shouldn't amount to more than 15 minutes, with an hour between re-applying. It is recommended that you wait for a minimum of 2 hours after the treatment until you take a shower - high-pressured water is to be avoided, especially when it comes to the area in question. SPF 25 sunblock at the very least is recommended and it is advised that you avoid sunlight altogether within the 3 months following the procedure.


There is no shame in getting your tattoo removed, regardless of whether you are dissatisfied with your tattoo's location, its content or its style. Going with the experts, however, is always advised, much like consulting this guide about what to expect. Take care of your skin, it is the largest human organ, after all!