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Laser Tattoo Removal and Swimming

Laser Tattoo Removal and Swimming

Some people come in to the office and ask about swimming during the tattoo removal process. There are no concerns with swimming before starting laser tattoo removal. It is completely safe. What is a concern is swimming after a treatment session. You should wait between three to four days after each of your laser tattoo removal session before you go swimming. It is not recommended to go swimming immediately after laser tattoo removal because the skin in the treated area is still recovering from the laser.

It is sensitive to the heat, sunlight, irritation, and infection.

Accordingly you should avoid putting the treated area in any water that could be too hot or dirty for the first few days after treatment. Stay away from water altogether except for baths and showers. This includes hot tubs, pools, lakes, rivers, and oceans because they can contain infection-causing bacteria. When you do take a bath or a shower, make sure that the water isn’t too hot and don’t let the shower beat directly on the treated area for very long. Both of these may cause irritation to the treated area.

If you happen to come in contact with dirty water, it’s not the end of the world. Just be sure to take action quickly. Wash the area thoroughly with antibacterial soap and clean water. Apply ointment and bandages if needed. If you notice any signs of an infection, contact your family doctor right away.

Oceans and public pools can be filled with all kinds of surprises. You just never know what you’re going to find in there. Avoid these bacteria-laden bodies of water as much as you can for the first several days after a laser removal sessions is your safest bet. By doing so, you will lower your risk of contracting an infection or the skin becoming irritated. We recognize that it may be difficult to resist the call of a cool swim on a hot summer day but the more you do, the better chance you have a staving off a possible infection and seeing better results during the tattoo removal process.

How long does each laser tattoo removal session last?

The duration of each laser tattoo removal session can vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the tattoo, the colors used, the type of laser being used, and the individual’s response to the treatment. On average, a single session can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.

During the session, the practitioner will use a laser device to target the tattoo ink with intense pulses of light. The laser breaks down the ink particles into smaller fragments, which are then gradually eliminated by the body’s natural processes. The length of the session will depend on the size of the tattoo and the number of passes required to effectively treat the area.

Smaller tattoos may require only a few minutes per session, while larger and more intricate designs can take longer. Additionally, certain colors, such as black and dark blue, are generally easier to remove than brighter colors like yellow or green, which may require additional time and multiple laser wavelengths for optimal results.

It’s important to note that laser tattoo removal typically requires multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart to achieve significant fading or complete removal. The exact number of sessions needed will depend on various factors, and the practitioner will provide a personalized treatment plan during the initial consultation.

Are there any side effects or risks associated with laser tattoo removal?

While laser tattoo removal is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects and risks associated with the procedure. These can include temporary skin redness, swelling, blistering, or scabbing in the treated area. In rare cases, there may be changes in skin pigmentation, such as hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (lightening). Allergic reactions or infections are also possible, although they are uncommon. It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced practitioner who can minimize these risks and provide appropriate aftercare instructions to help promote proper healing and minimize complications.