Tattoos are permanent. When people make the decision to get a tattoo, they do not believe they will stop liking their tattoo or consider the future impact. However, regret happens. Thankfully, Dr. Adam Maddox and the team at Thrive in Portland, OR offer effective tattoo removal.
Tattoo ink is not just on the surface of the skin. It cannot be bleached or removed with a topical cream. The ink goes deep into the underlying skin. At Thrive, we offer state-of-the-art technology to remove common ink colors from beneath the skin.
Recommendations prior to treatment
Before your laser tattoo removal treatment, there are some points to keep in mind:
- With any laser treatment, it is important to avoid tanning products, tanning bed, and sun exposure for a couple weeks before your visit. Lasers break down pigment. Tanning increases the melanin in your skin making it more difficult for the laser to distinguish the color it needs to break down. Laser settings need to be toned down on tanned skin to avoid negative reactions but it also means the procedure is less aggressive and may require more treatment sessions.
- Do not wear jewelry in the treatment area.
- Topical numbing cream may be used prior to the treatment to maintain patient comfort.
- Although results may be noticeable after a single treatment, a series of sessions is necessary for an optimal outcome. The laser breaks up the ink over time gradually removing the color from deep within the skin.
What to expect following laser tattoo removal
It is important to follow post care instructions. Swelling and pinpoint bleeding are possible. Blistering may occur but should heal within a week. Treat the area with the same care as a mild burn. Do not pop the blisters. Avoid shaving and sun exposure until the area has fully healed.
If you live near Portland, OR and have tattoo regret, consider laser tattoo removal. Contact Thrive today to schedule a consultation. (503) 928-6505