Tattoo Removal
Expressing oneself with a tattoo may seem like a great idea but many people come to regret this decision later. NaturaLase QS technology eliminates tattoo inks, in a safe and effective manner.
Q-switched lasers are unique because they use an intense pulse of light energy that is very powerful and very brief. Because the energy is in the skin for such a brief period of time, the skin isn’t heated long enough to experience tissue damage. Yet, because the pulse of energy is so intense, the tattoo ink instantly fragments into smaller pieces as it absorbs the light.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
The ink from a tattoo has been placed in the dermis (one of the three layers of skin), a laser is needed to penetrate the skin, while preserving the surrounding tissue. The light from the laser penetrates the top layer of skin and breaks down the ink into tiny particles. During the treatment the laser causes swelling and redness and creates a “wound healing response” which sets the body’s own immune system into action. To remove the tattoo, the body works to eliminate the small particles of ink through the lymphatic system. Multiple laser tattoo treatments may be needed to achieve satisfactory results. The tattoo removal process will be fully discussed during the consultation - Check out the FAQs for more information.
After Treatment
The laser treatment may create a superficial burn wound. Some patients may experience bruising or swelling. There is immediate whitening of the treated area, which usually lasts for several minutes. Many clients then develop blisters, crusts, or scabs within 12-72 hours, which may last for 1-2 weeks or more. The treated areas may be pink or pale after the scab separates. Loss of skin pigment in the treated area is common and is usually temporary. Healing is usually complete by 6-8 weeks.
• Keep the treated area clean and dry while it is healing. Clean the area gently with antibacterial soap and gently pat dry. Do not rub.
• If the skin has open wounds keep it clean and covered. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or Aquaphor until it is completely healed. Between 3 days-2 weeks. Do not pick or shave over the area until healed.
• No sun exposure to the area 2 weeks after treatment. Be sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher after the healing is done. Any skin that is tanned or sunburned cannot be treated.
• You may apply cool compresses as necessary for 24 hours after the laser treatment to help reduce discomfort and inflammation. You may take plain Tylenol, Advil, etc.
Stay healthy and drink plenty of water!
If the area looks infected (honey colored crusting and oozing or spreading redness), if you experience an unusual discomfort or bleeding, if any complications develop or if you have any questions or concerns, contact the office immediately. Of course, if you have any extreme reactions (such as moderate to severe facial swelling, moderate to severe rash, any difficulty breathing, or you are in distress) call 911 and go to the nearest emergency room.