Laser Aftercare
Octopus Studio is not responsible for any skin damage that occurs if you do not follow our aftercare instructions following laser tattoo removal.
The laser breaks down tattoo pigment into microscopic particles, which the body then absorbs through the lymphatic system and eliminates via bodily fluids. With each session, a new, deeper layer of pigment is targeted and drawn out, so it’s completely normal for the tattoo to appear darker after the first few treatments. A darker appearance is not a cause for concern.
The laser works most effectively when there is a strong contrast between the skin and the tattoo, that is, when the skin is light and the tattoo is dark. After several laser sessions, the tattoo may fade to a point where the laser can no longer detect it, making further treatments ineffective. In cases where complete removal isn’t possible, a new tattoo can be done over the old one. The lighter the old tattoo becomes, the more options you’ll have when choosing a new design, since very dark inks are required to properly cover black pigment.
SKIN CARE AFTER TREATMENT
After the treatment, Light Soothe serum is applied to the skin, specially designed for skin care after laser tattoo removal. It promotes tissue healing, soothes irritation and redness, hydrates the skin and has an antibacterial effect. The burn is protected with Suprasorb foil – a transparent polyurethane foil that is breathable and flexible, and through the exchange of gases and heat creates a moist environment that is conducive to the healing of the burn. Suprasorb protects the wound from the penetration of external infectious agents and does not interfere with showering because excess moisture evaporates through the foil. If the tattoo is larger than the largest available Suprasorb patch format, it is protected with sterile gauze. Further care is almost identical to skin care after tattooing.
During the first ten days after laser treatment, the skin should be cared for three times a day:
During the first ten days after laser treatment, the skin should be cared for three times a day:
Wash
Gently clean the wound using a mild liquid pH 5.5 soap under a light stream of running water. Avoid soaking the treated area in water for at least the first two weeks to prevent contact with microorganisms that could cause infection.
Dry
Always use paper towels to dry the area to avoid transferring bacteria from regular towels to the wound. After drying, wait 5-10 minutes before applying any ointment.
Apply ointment
The wound (burn) resulting from a laser treatment differs from the one that forms after tattooing. For this reason, we recommend using Light Soothe serum, specifically formulated for healing burns. Apply a thin, transparent layer. Applying too much can block airflow to the wound, slowing the healing process and potentially causing inflammation.
Protect
As with tattoos, the wound can drain lymph and/or slight bloody discharge for the first few days, and blisters and skin discoloration may occur. It is advisable to keep the wound as exposed to air as possible, without contact with fabric and infectious agents (chemicals, dust and dirt, pet hair, etc.). When this is not possible (while you are away from home or sleeping), the treated area should be protected with a Suprasorb plaster or sterile gauze. Make sure that the adhesive part of the plaster does not come into contact with the wound. In the event that scabs form, i.e. lymph or blood sticks to the plaster or gauze, we recommend rinsing the area with a gentle stream of lukewarm water when removing the protection.
When it comes to laser tattoo removal, scabbing is not a problem the way it can be with fresh tattoos. The scab forms in the deeper layers of the skin, and as it naturally falls off, it draws out pigment from the tattoo. While this would be undesirable during the healing of a new tattoo, in laser removal it can actually help the process. However, you should not allow the burn to dry out completely or form thick crusts, as that can slow down healing.
We recommend applying cold compresses frequently to the laser-treated skin, especially if swelling, redness, or a burning sensation occurs. These symptoms, along with blisters and temporary skin discoloration, are all normal reactions after a laser treatment.
There should be at least eight weeks between laser sessions to allow the skin to heal thoroughly. If you are exposed to the sun during this period, protect the treated area with SPF 50 or higher to prevent additional burns. During the winter months, when the skin tends to be more dehydrated, we recommend extending the interval between treatments to ten weeks.
Skin lightening or darkening can occur for up to six months after the treatment.
If you plan to have a new tattoo placed over the old one (the one being removed by laser), you must wait at least six months after your final laser session.
If you haven’t noticed any discharge of lymph or blood after the treatment and the treated skin appears normal, that’s also fine, however, this does not mean the waiting period between sessions can be shortened.
If you notice any concerning changes to the skin after treatment, please contact us as soon as possible to schedule a check-up.