Do you regret your tattoo? Through laser tattoo removal, you can reverse previous tattoo choices. According to a study commissioned by Harris Poll in January 2012, 1 in 8 American adults who have tattoos regret having one [1]. When tattoos trend, tattoo removal demand also increases [2]. But before you continue with tattoo removal, you need to prepare for it. Tattoo ink resides below the top layer of skin, making removal difficult, often involving several laser sessions or, in some cases, surgical removal.
Fill your tummy before an appointment
The tattoo removal process will sound and feel like cracking several rubber bands on your skin for several minutes! Being on an empty stomach while hearing all the noise can lead to light-headedness or vertigo. Make sure you’ve eaten before you come in for your appointment to reduce the chances of swooning.
Stop or cut down smoking
Stop smoking for the remainder of the recovery time. Cigarettes delay the healing mechanisms of the body, which significantly raise the risk of infections that can lead to scarring or infection.
Research suggests the chance of successfully removing a tattoo from the skin of a smoker after 10 therapy sessions were almost 70 per cent smaller [3].
Sunscreen = your BFF
Before your laser tattoo removal session, you will want to protect the tattoo from the sun for at least four weeks. Tanned skin looks fantastic, but is more susceptible to side effects. If you need to get that Vitamin D, at least keep the area treated with protected with sunscreen and clothing.
Almost every laser removal specialist refuses to handle tanned skin because it raises the risk of lasting changes in pigment.
Loose-fitting clothing
If possible, wear light fitting clothes which do not reach down to the affected area. Depending to where your tattoo is, you may be able to wear clothes that can be covered without rubbing or scraping the skin after the treatment. After each session, your skin may look sunburned. Dressing appropriately will help you avoid anxiety later that day.
Taking Tylenol and avoid aspirin or ibuprofen
Taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) about one hour before treatment may be effective in alleviating the pain if you take it before your removal session.
During your laser tattoo removal appointment, taking ibuprofen or aspirin can cause excessive bruising around the area being treated.
Ensure the area is cleaned and free of lotions, perfumes and cosmetic products
The area to be handled should be completely cleansed and cleared of all remaining makeup or skincare ingredients [4]. You do not have to moisturize the skin for treatment, because it does not affect how the skin can tolerate the laser.
In fact, all we really need is to be absolutely clean and clear about the area.
Last but not least, manage your expectations
You must remember before starting the process that no tattoo removal treatment guarantees a full cure. And it is best to speak to your doctor to get a clearer understanding of the situation before raising expectations.
There may be cases where a tattoo may fade but never get entirely removed. There may also be situations where you can undergo full tattoo removal. This will depend on your skin type and lifestyle. In certain cases, there are also risks of scarring.
To sum it all up
Now you are ready to have your tattoo removed. New laser tattoo removal technology is growing more effective, fast, and time-accessible. For someone with an unwanted tattoo, this is a very feasible choice. So what are you waiting for?