The Real Deal Of What To Expect After Your First Tattoo Removal Session

So, you’re booked in for your first tattoo removal session, and now you’re probably wondering, “what’s itreally going to be like?” It’s completely normal to have questions about what will happen to your skin in the coming days and weeks. Most resources out there focus on how laser tattoo removal works, but here, we’re diving into what you can actually expect after your first treatment to help you feel prepared for the journey ahead.

The Immediate Aftermath

Don’t be surprised if the treated area turns a little white and slightly raised right after your session. This is called “frosting,” and it’s simply a sign that the laser has done its job, heating up the ink particles to break them down. If you notice a bit of pinpoint bleeding, don’t panic – this can sometimes happen during the treatment and usually disappears after a few days. The treated area might feel tender, but any redness or swelling should subside fairly quickly. Overall, the initial reactions are just your skin’s way of saying, “Okay, we’ve started the healing process.”

The Healing Process

As your skin begins to heal, you may experience some blistering or scabbing over the next few days. This is a totally normal part of the tattoo removal process. The blisters are actually filled with fluid to help protect the underlying skin, so avoid the urge to pop them and let them heal naturally. If the area starts to look a bit scabby or “unclean,” don’t worry; that’s also normal and can last anywhere from three days to two weeks, depending on your skin’s healing speed. 

Applying an aftercare cream like Solugel or Bepanthen will help keep the skin moisturised and encourage a smoother healing process. If your tattoo is on your leg or foot, elevating the area for the first day or so is a good idea to help reduce swelling. Icing the area on and off can also be beneficial.

Aftercare is Everything

The steps you take to care for your skin after treatment are vital to ensure it heals properly and looks its best. Ensure you apply your aftercare cream as recommended – usually about two to three times dailyfor the first week. This keeps the area hydrated and aids in the natural shedding of the fragmented ink.

You’ll want to stay out of the sun as much as possible. Direct UV exposure can irritate the treated area, potentially leading to pigmentation changes. Cover the treated skin with clothing or a high-SPF sunscreen if you need to be outside. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Easing Back into Your Routine

You don’t have to put your entire life on hold after tattoo removal, but there are some precautions to remember. Avoid intense physical activity for at least 48 hours, as exercise can increase circulation to the area, potentially causing more swelling. If your tattoo is in a spot prone to rubbing, like your waistband or underarms, protect the area with a breathable bandage to avoid irritation.

As for the fading, be patient. The ink particles will continue to break down and be flushed out by your body’s natural processes over the coming weeks. While you won’t see immediate results after your first treatment, you’ll notice gradual fading, especially as you continue with your recommended treatment plan.

Don’t Forget to Book Your Next Tattoo Removal Session! 

So, you’ve made it through your first tattoo removal treatment – congrats!  But don’t stop there. Tattoo removal is a journey, and one session is just the beginning. To achieve the best results, staying on track with your follow-up sessions is crucial.

Ensure you’ve booked your second session (and, even better, planned out your series of treatments) within the recommended timeframe – usually around 6 to 8 weeks. This helps ensure that you’re ready for the next removal stage and maximises your results with each visit.