Laser Tattoo Removal Pre-Care
To ensure your treatment is safe and as effective as possible, please follow these instructions before your appointment:
2–4 Weeks Before Treatment
Avoid sun exposure and tanning
Avoid direct sun exposure, sunbeds, and self-tanning products on the treatment area for at least 2–4 weeks prior to your appointment. Tanned or sunburnt skin increases the risk of burns and pigmentation changes.
Do not wax, peel, or exfoliate the area
Avoid harsh exfoliants, chemical peels, retinoids, or active skincare products on the treatment area.
Pause photosensitising medications (if medically approved)
Please inform your practitioner of any medications you are taking, particularly antibiotics, isotretinoin, or any medications that may increase sensitivity to light.
24–48 Hours Before Treatment
Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine
These may increase skin sensitivity and bruising.
Avoid anti-inflammatory medication where possible
Unless prescribed by your doctor, avoid ibuprofen or aspirin, as these may increase bruising.
Stay well hydrated
Healthy, hydrated skin tends to respond better to treatment.
Shave the area if advised
If the treatment area has hair, please shave it beforehand unless instructed otherwise.
Arrive with clean skin
Do not apply makeup, fake tan, lotions, deodorant, or skincare products to the treatment area on the day of your appointment.
Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential to support healing, reduce complications, and achieve the best possible results.
Immediately After Treatment
It is normal to experience:
Redness
Swelling
Tenderness
A warm or sunburn-like sensation
Temporary whitening (“frosting”) of the treated area
These reactions typically settle within a few hours to several days.
First 24–72 Hours
Apply a cold compress if needed
Use a clean, cool compress to reduce heat or swelling. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
Keep the area clean and dry
Gently cleanse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Avoid soaking the area.
Protect the treated area
A sterile dressing may be applied if needed. Follow your practitioner’s advice on when to remove or replace it.
Avoid friction or pressure
Wear loose clothing and avoid rubbing or irritating the area.
During Healing (7–14 Days or Longer)
Do not pick, scratch, or pop blisters
Blistering or scabbing can be a normal part of healing. Picking may cause infection or scarring.
Avoid swimming, saunas, and excessive sweating
Avoid pools, hot tubs, steam rooms, and intense exercise until the skin has healed.
Avoid sun exposure
Keep the area covered and apply SPF 50 once the skin is fully healed. Sun exposure can increase the risk of pigmentation changes.
Avoid active skincare products
Do not apply exfoliants, acids, retinoids, or fragranced products to the treated area until fully healed.
Moisturise as advised
Apply any recommended healing balm or ointment sparingly, following your practitioner’s instructions.
Between Sessions
Allow adequate healing time
Laser tattoo removal requires multiple sessions, typically spaced 6–8 weeks apart to allow the body to break down and clear the pigment effectively.
Support your body’s healing
Stay well hydrated, avoid smoking where possible, and maintain good overall health to support your immune system.