What NOT to do before your laser tattoo removal session

Jim Trenholm • January 17, 2018

The success of removing your unwanted ink primarily lies in the technology and expertise of your technician, but there are a few steps you can take to ensure your laser tattoo removal process is comfortable and efficient.

Although all of these topics will be discussed in your initial consultation at Unthink Inc., here are some basic guidelines of things to avoid prior to coming to your laser tattoo removal sessions.

Do NOT start laser removal too soon.

There are few things as frustrating as getting a tattoo and instantly disliking it. Although laser tattoo removal can resolve this issue, it cannot happen right away. Most ink pigments need at least three months to settle into the skin before the laser can effectively target and remove your tattoo. If ink is removed before it can settle into skin, it can cause ink retention and undesirable effects like pronounced blistering. To avoid these negative skin reactions, we suggest waiting the minimum recommended three months before making your laser tattoo removal appointment. If you aren’t sure if your tattoo is ready to be removed, book your free consultation with Unthink Inc. and let expert laser technician, Jim assess and determine your timeline.

Do NOT lay out in the sun prior or in between sessions.

It is known that exposure to the sun is detrimental after a laser treatment, but you may not realize it can be equally damaging prior to treatment as well. Sun exposure after a laser tattoo removal session can result in hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) whereas UV exposure before results in hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin). To shield skin from these effects, we suggest keeping your tattoo out of direct sunlight during the weeks leading up to your treatment and post-treatment. In case sun exposure is unavoidable, we ask that you apply an SPF of 30 or higher to the tattoo area continuously throughout the day. Being proactive and protecting your skin from the sun’s harsh rays will help to ensure your treatments are more effective and greatly reduce any risk of scarring.

Do NOT apply false tanner.

Using false tanning products will not harm your skin in the same way sun exposure can but they can negatively affect your tattoo removal process. Our tattoo removal laser, the PicoWay , works by targeting the pigment in tattoo ink, therefore if extra pigment is added to the skin via self tanning products it can lead to unnecessary skin irritation or blistering. There is also the chance that any toxins in these products will absorb into the skin, which may also contribute to a negative laser reaction. In order to decrease any change of these risks, we suggest refraining from using any self-tanning products throughout your treatments.

Do NOT try other methods of tattoo removal.

Lasers are the only FDA approved method of tattoo removal currently on the market . Any other method of ink removal or fading, such as at-home cremes, will only aggravate skin and ultimately make ink pigment harder for the laser to remove. Although these products may be more attractive due to their gentle application, they cannot properly penetrate the skin and remove all ink pigment. Not only are they ineffective but they can hinder your ability to receive successful laser tattoo removal.

To learn more about the process of laser tattoo removal, click here to book your free consultation with the experts at Unthink Inc.

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