My tattoo did not frost over after my first Picosure laser removal session. Does this mean the treatment is not working? (photo)

Question

Check out my after pics. Is no frosting normal?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Not necessarily, because healing is variable. I recommend bringing up your concerns with your practitioner. Tattoos should be removed with q switched or pico lasers, but it will take a series of treatments. We use pfd patches to speed up the process. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Michelle Ellern, DO · Answer

Frosting can be none or a lot depending on how much ink, settings, etc.  It doesn't have to frost to work.  Also frosting is very brief and may not be overly apparent.  I would wait and see how things are with the fading prior to becoming concerned. Good luck with your removal.

Richard Rosol, MD · Answer

The normal and expected-appearing swelling in your photos suggests an excellent response to treatment. Frosting lasts only a few minutes after impact and is usually strong on the first few treatments, especially of black ink. In some situations I’d say a treatment that doesn’t induce frosting could be ineffective, but it only tells part of the story. 
Irrespective of your frosting reaction, I’d say you’ve had an excellent treatment there.

My tattoo did not frost over after my first Picosure laser removal session. Does this mean the treatment is not working? (photo)

Answers (3)

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