FADED PODCAST
Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare
Your skin has just been hit with intense laser energy. It’s going to look angry, feel tender, and probably have you questioning whether this was a good idea. This is completely normal.
The next few hours and days are crucial for how well your skin heals and how effective your treatment will be. Get the aftercare wrong, and you could end up with complications, slower healing, or less effective results.
At Studio Kiku, we’ve seen every possible reaction and aftercare mistake you can imagine. Here’s what actually works.
The first few hours matter most
When you leave our studio, you’ll have a bandage on. Keep it there for at least 2-3 hours. I know it’s tempting to peek, but resist the urge.
When you do remove it, gently clean the area with lukewarm water and mild soap. And I mean gentle. Pat it dry with a clean towel. No rubbing, no matter how satisfying it might feel.
Cool it down (literally)
Here’s where people get it wrong. Your skin has just been through a controlled trauma. The last thing it needs is more heat trapped against it.
Skip the petroleum-based ointments for now. They’re like wrapping your skin in cling film after it’s been sunburned. This is not helpful. Instead, cool the area down with gentle icing. A few minutes on, a few minutes off. Don’t go overboard and give yourself ice burn on top of everything else.
What to avoid (and why)
For the next two weeks, your skin is in recovery mode. That means:
- No intense workouts that make you sweat buckets
- No hot showers (lukewarm is fine)
- No saunas or steam rooms
- Definitely no sunbathing or tanning beds
Think of your treated skin like it’s recovering from a minor injury – because it is. Heat, sweat, and UV exposure will only slow things down and potentially cause complications.
And yes, sunscreen becomes your best friend when you’re outside. Non-negotiable.
What’s normal vs. what’s not
After your session, expect some redness, swelling, and itching. Your body is literally processing broken-down ink particles, so of course it’s going to react.
The itching can drive you mental, but try to resist the urge to scratch. Anti-itch lotions work well, and here’s a weird tip that actually works: hemorrhoid cream. I know it sounds bizarre, but it’s brilliant for reducing swelling and irritation.
What’s not normal? Massive blisters or open wounds. If your skin looks like it’s been through a cheese grater, something went wrong with the treatment settings or technique. Get in touch with your clinic immediately.
Your skin, your timeline
Everyone heals differently. Where your tattoo is located, how big it is, your age, your general health – it all affects how quickly you bounce back.
If you’re generally healthy, well-hydrated, and get decent sleep, you’ll probably heal faster. If you’re run-down, stressed, or not taking care of yourself, expect things to take longer.
Before you even book your session
A bit of planning goes a long way. Avoid sun exposure on the area for at least two weeks before your appointment. And don’t book your session right before a beach holiday or important event where you’ll need to be at your best. The healing process takes time, and it’s best to rest as much as possible.
Bring a cold pack for the drive home. The sooner you start cooling the area, the more comfortable you’ll be.
Aftercare doesn’t need to be complicated. Follow these guidelines, listen to your body, and don’t panic if things look a bit rough for the first few days.
Your skin has just been through something intense, but it knows how to heal. Your job is just to not get in its way.
Most complications I see could have been avoided with proper aftercare. So take it seriously, but don’t stress about it.
Resources Mentioned:
Aquaphor
Links:
Instagram – Studio Kiku
Instagram – Billy DeCola