Bleeding after laser tattoo removal session, is this normal? (photo)

Bleeding is likely due to treatment performed too aggressively. I suggest speaking to your treating dermatologist as they will have suggestions for wound care.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Hello, thank you for your question. Bleeding is a possibility when doing laser tattoo removal, but is not necessarily the response that we would like to see. Taking care of the tattoo post treatment is definitely an important part of successfully removing a tattoo with minimal to no scarring. Post care instructions are as follows:

POSTOPERATIVE TREATMENT CAREImmediately after treatment, there should be a “slight
frosting” on the area that is treated. Erythema (redness) and edema (swelling)
at the treatment site can occur and may last up to 2 hours or longer. Pinpoint
bleeding may also occur.An ointment (Aquaphor, bacitracin, or even Vaseline) should
be applied to the treated area and covered with a non-stick bandage.After treatment, the skin will scab over. It is very
important not to pick, scratch or aggressively wash the area to prevent
possible scarring. This crust should flake off in 7-10 days.Avoid sun exposure to reduce the chance of
hyper-pigmentation (darker pigmentation)Use sun block (SPF 30+) at all times throughout the course
of your treatments.There are no restrictions on bathing except to treat the
area gently, as with any other wound.

Good Luck!

We typically recommend applying Aquaphor Healing Ointment to the lasered area until any scabbing resolves.  Any time the skin is broken there is a small risk for infection so watch for any abnormal symptoms such as redness, pain, etc.  Call your doctor if you have any concerns.Regards,Dr. Ort

In general, this is not the desired outcome but it does occur. Open skin wounds should be treated with aquaphor until closed. I could take a week or 10 days for this to heal.