How to prepare yourself for laser tattoo removal
Sometimes we get tattoos that we regret. Maybe we are not in that place anymore, maybe we do not like the way they look anymore, or maybe we are just ready for a change. Laser tattoo removal is a viable option for getting rid of unwanted tattoos, but there are a few things that you need to keep in mind when getting ready for your removal.
What to Know Before Tattoo Removal?
Before you ever start to get your tattoo removed, it is always best to make sure that you have your expectations managed. The darker the ink, the harder it is to remove. Larger tattoos may be harder to get rid of and might still show up a little after you have them removed. Also, make sure that you realize that laser tattoo removal, though it will take away most of the tattoo, it may not completely erase it.
Managing expectations is the most important thing that you can do before you ever sit down to get a removal as it will help you feel better about your results and will also help you fight off any feelings that perhaps things did not work out the way that you wanted them to. A consultation is a great way to get an idea of what the laser tattoo removal professional is going to be able to do and can also help you ease some of your fears and some of the trepidation that you might have. There are a few things you can do to learn how to make laser tattoo removal more effective and they are as follows:
- Location and Size of tattoo matter
- Professional tattoos are easier to remove than those done by an amateur
- This is not a one time thing
- Cut back on smoking and make sure to eat and drink before your appointment
- Wear loose clothing during healing and stay out of the sun
Location Matters
Though you might assume that a tattoo can be fully removed from any place on the body, tattoos that have a better blood flow or vascular supply are going to be easier to remove than those that are further away. The reason for this is that for a laser removal to work, there needs to be blood flow for the skin to heal. The more blood flow, the better the area is going to heal. Tattoos that are on areas that are close to the heart are going to be easier to heal.
Professional Tattoos are Easier to Remove
When trying to figure out how to make laser tattoo removal more effective, those tattoos that are done by a professional are going to be much easier to remove because they are more even. The more even the ink, the better and more predictable the results from the laser.
This is Not a One-time Thing
Still another thing to keep in mind and to prepare for is that you are not going to be able to visit one time and have the tattoo be gone. This is a multiple visit procedure. The larger the tattoo or how difficult, the more visits you will need to fully remove it.
Cut Back on Smoking and Eat and Drink
Smoking makes it harder for the body to heal which means that skin is not going to regenerate as quickly if you are a heavy smoker. If you are a heavy smoker, you may end up dealing with a longer healing process and a less effective laser treatment. You also need to eat and drink before your session. Being hydrated helps the body heal faster and it will also help you to be more comfortable when you are in the chair getting the treatment.
Loose Clothing and Staying Out of the Sun
This is a big one when it comes to figuring out how to make laser tattoo removal more effective. You need to wear loose clothing to help prevent the clothing from rubbing against the skin and against the area that was treated. You also want to avoid the sun as sun damage and direct sunlight can cause further irritation to the area. All of the things mentioned here are going to help make the tattoo removal process more effective and help you get the best result possible from your tattoo removal.