Laser tattoo removal is the gold standard when it comes to reducing or removing an unwanted tattoo. No matter why you no longer want your tattoo, our experienced providers at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta are proud to offer PicoWay® and PicoSure®, the most advanced laser technology available today. This technology alongside the expertise of our knowledgeable dermatologists and dermatological physician assistants provides exceptional results as efficiently as possible.

While there is plenty we can do to make sure your laser tattoo removal is as effective and smooth as possible, you play a role as well based on how you care for your skin after each treatment. Our tattoo removal experts are offering our top tips for helping your skin heal after your laser treatments.

Don’t Go Overboard with Cleansing

After your tattoo removal procedure, we’ll give you instructions for caring for the treatment area. This generally involves cleaning the area twice per day. It’s important to note that when it comes to cleaning your skin after your laser procedure, more is not better. Going overboard by washing your skin too frequently can dry your skin and using overly harsh cleanser can irritate your skin. Use a gentle cleanser and only wash the skin as frequently as your provider instructs you.

Keep the Area Moisturized the Right Way

Hydration is important for allowing your body’s healing process to work properly. Keeping your post-laser skin hydrated, though, doesn’t involve exposing it to water. Instead, the goal is to strengthen and replicate your body’s moisture barrier so it holds in hydration. You can do this by applying petroleum jelly or Aquaphor® to your treated skin each time you replace your bandage.

Make Sun Protection a Priority

After a laser treatment like laser tattoo removal, your skin will be more vulnerable to sun damage. Sun exposure can lead to complications like long-lasting changes to your skin’s pigment.

To avoid this problem, it’s crucial to protect your treatment area from the sun for at least six weeks after each laser tattoo removal session. Don’t assume that your bandage will fully protect you against sun damage – keep the treatment area in the shade or under tightly woven clothing as often as possible.

Even after your skin has healed enough that you no longer need a bandage, you need to continue protecting your skin for the remainder of the six-week post-procedure period. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on the area. Ideally, choose a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide as well.

Track Your Healing Process

If you’re caring for your post-laser skin properly, the risk of developing an infection is low. Regardless, it’s important to watch how your skin is healing and keep an eye out for the signs of an infection, like worsening pain, worsening redness, pus, or swelling. It helps to examine the area each day when you change your bandage. You might also find it helpful to take a picture each time you check the treatment area so you can compare them day by day.

Above All, Follow Your Provider’s Instructions

After your laser session, your provider will give you instructions for caring for your skin as it heals. While the tips above are helpful to supplement those instructions, remember that your provider’s instructions should always be your first resource. The instructions may be customized to you based on your specific treatment area, procedure details, skin health history, and more. If you have questions at any point after your treatment, you can always call your provider to ask.

If you’re considering laser tattoo removal, Dermatology Associates of Atlanta can help. Call our Atlanta dermatology office today to schedule your consultation. Follow us as well on Facebook and Instagram for more skin care tips.