Is blistering a good sign after laser tattoo treatment?

Question

I just had my third session with the picosure laser almost two weeks ago and I am curious if blistering is a good sign? My two prior treatments had no blistering, just scabbing. My blisters popped a few days ago and left new skin underneath it. Another thing I’m curious about is if there will be a scab that falls off a little later like my two prior treatments? The reason I am asking is because of the new skin the blister left behind, I’m not sure if a scab is still waiting to fall off as well.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  First, let your provider know before your next treatment that you blistered this time.  They may be able to adjust the settings for your next treatment.Blistering can occur with any laser tattoo removal treatment.  We can generally avoid it, but it is more likely on lower extremities (below the elbow or knee).  With the PicoSure, it will not usually cause damage to the underlying skin.  Our patients that have blistered often report that they see big changes in the ink and ask to be blistered again.  We tell our patients that blistering is always possible.Going forward after 3 PicoSure tattoo removal sessions, we would recommend waiting 3-6 months between treatments.  While the studies and the laser manufacturers will tell you that is safe to retreat at 4-6 weeks, but your body is still filtering out the ink from your last treatment.  If you treat sooner, you are wasting your money and risking damage to the skin.

Is blistering a good sign after laser tattoo treatment?

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