Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare. How to look after your tattoo post treatment
Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare: Your Complete Guide to Healing Safely and Maximising Results
Laser tattoo removal is a powerful way to reclaim your skin, but what happens after the laser session is just as important as the treatment itself. Proper aftercare ensures your skin heals well, reduces the risk of complications, and helps your tattoo fade as effectively as possible.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from immediate post-treatment care to long-term skin protection, common mistakes to avoid, and tips from professionals at Salt Aesthetics.
1. What to Expect Immediately After Your Session
After your laser session, your skin will be sensitive. It’s normal to experience:
Redness and swelling: Often similar to a mild sunburn
Tenderness: Especially on areas with dense ink
Mild bruising or Purpura: Looks like little red/purple pen dots
Immediate care steps:
Ice: For ten minutes, every hour. Continue this for the rest of the day. The longer you follow this instruction, the easier your healing process. Wrap a clean cloth around an ice pack and gently press to reduce discomfort. Never apply ice directly to the skin. Note, not to ice for longer than ten minutes. Alternatively you can cool the area for prolonged periods of time instead of using ice packs.
Avoid picking or scratching: Itching sensations can occur (that healing itch). Picking and scratching can lead to infection, scarring, or uneven fading.
Protect the area from friction: Avoid tight clothing or straps rubbing against the treated skin.
Avoid products: We want the heat to escape the skin, applying layers of product to the skin can cause the heat to become trapped. For the first 24 hours please leave the skin bare.
2. First 24–72 Hours After Treatment
This period is critical for preventing complications:
Stay out of water: No baths, hot tubs, saunas, or swimming pools. Showers are fine, but keep them quick, gentle and not hot.
Continue with ice as seen fit: Continue with icing if the area is still warm or if swelling persists. Wrap a clean cloth around an ice pack and gently press to reduce discomfort. Never apply ice directly to the skin.
No Exercise: A light walk is fine, but no HIIT training or anything that will elevate your body temperature.
Monitor for unusual symptoms: Redness and swelling are normal, but signs like blisters, spreading redness, or severe pain require immediate professional attention.
Avoid direct sun exposure: Your skin is more sensitive, and UV rays can cause hyperpigmentation.
Apply a thin layer of healing ointment: Now is the time you can apply a product like a soothing balm if you wish.
3. First Week: Healing & Monitoring
Your skin will go through several stages in the first week. You may notice instant fading and lightening of the area already. Continue to stay out of spas and saunas for the full 7 days. It is also important to continue to keep the area out of direct sun exposure. Whilst you may feel like the tattoos skin surface has returned back to normal, it is still best practice to treat it with care and delicacy.
When to Call a Professional
Contact your practitioner if you notice:
Severe pain or swelling
Blisters
Pus, bleeding, or signs of infection
Sudden changes in skin colour
Unusual or persistent scarring
Anything you feel requires questioning, advice or assistance
Early intervention ensures your healing stays on track and protects your results.
For best Results
To get the most out of your tattoo removal, we recommend following these instructions and any others that are discussed with you from your laser technician.
Supporting your overall bodies health and lymphatic drainage is also key in speeding up the process. This looks like hydration, exercise (once cleared), dry brushing and other health practices. These support the body in flushing out the ink particles.
Conclusion
Proper aftercare is just as important as the laser treatment itself. Following these guidelines helps your skin heal safely, reduces side effects, and ensures your tattoo fades efficiently. With patience, care, and professional guidance, you can achieve smooth, clear skin and the best possible tattoo removal results.
Book a consultation with Salt Aesthetics today and get personalised advice on your aftercare and treatment journey.