Immediately following the treatment, there may be a frosted white appearance to the skin that will fade in about 10-15 minutes. Depending on your reaction, the area may be red and swollen. There might be little to no change in the color of your tattoo, but not to worry. The fading process takes 4-8 weeks and nearly all tattoos require multiple treatments to achieve maximal clearing. So please be patient.

You may experience some discomfort after the treatment. Treated areas will sting for about 1 to 2 hours after treatment. You may take an acetaminophen analgesic, such as Tylenol, for pain relief. Avoiding ibuprofen and aspirin is suggested in that they might increase bruising. Also, please consult your physician before stopping or starting any type of medications.

The treated area may turn red, bruise, swell, blister and/or scab over the next 24-72 hours. Applying ice compresses to the treated areas as often as possible for the first 24 hours will help considerably during this time. Constant cooling of the treated area has been shown to be effective in minimizing blistering. Ice compresses may be continued thereafter if you find they offer relief.

Keep the area cool for the first 24 hours following the laser treatment. If you bathe or shower the next day, do not run hot water over the area, the colder the water the better. Normal temperature showering/bathing is permitted after 24 hours. Gently pat the area dry; do not rub with a towel or washcloth as this may disrupt the surface of the skin if it is blistered, scabbed, or flaking.

Over the next several days, blisters may form followed by a scab or thin crust. Any scabs or crusting should be allowed to fall off on their own. The underlying skin will remain red for a few days to a few weeks. To minimize complications do not pick or remove dead skin or scabs!

If the area scabs or any blisters pop, apply a Polysporin ointment to the area and cover with a nonstick bandage. Any bandages worn should be changed twice daily. Wash treated area gently with soap and water and pat dry prior to reapplying the ointment and bandage. If the area does not have any open wounds do not apply ointment as it tends to act like an insulator trapping the heat.

Carefully protect your skin from the sun! Keep the area covered with clothing or a bandage while the area is healing. Once the area has healed wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) for at least 6 weeks after treatment.

If the area becomes dry or forms a thin crust applying alcohol/perfume free lotion will reduce itching and help prevent scarring. Also, once healed daily applications of lotion can help to increase results.

Do not apply makeup to the treatment area and avoid swimming, hot tubs and contact sports until it is dry and healed.

Treatment intervals are typically 8 or more weeks apart. This gives the area time to heal and allows the body time to absorb and discard the tattoo ink through the lymphatic system. Treatment at less than 6 weeks does not appear to be more effective, and may create a higher risk for scarring since the treated are may not be adequately healed.