Why do I get blisters one week after the laser tattoo removal session?

Question

I started my half sleeve tattoo removal last year, using a q-switched laser. The first two sessions were great - almost no blisters, and great fading. I was super excited. Then the third time my arm just burst into horrible blisters and I had to be seen by the burns unit at hospital even though the settings were exactly the same. So I did two patch tests following that incident using lower intensities but blisters appeared again. Weirdly, this only happens 7 days after the treatment. Any ideas?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

The thermal bioeffects of the laser penetrate into the areas of pigment, causing blistering. Quite common. In our office, we use specific burn dressings to optimize outcome after tattoo removal. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

This phenomenon is due to the attenuation of laser energy in the form of absorption in tissue and is related to fibrosis of the deeper dermal layers and sparing of this effect on the superficial layers. Since the superficial layers are easier for energy to disperse it causes blistering and is related physiologically to a burn effect.

Why do I get blisters one week after the laser tattoo removal session?

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