Laser Tattoo Removal Blistering Getting Worse? (photo)

Question

I'm currently having a large tribal tattoo removed I've had 5 sessions so far (split design into 3, so 2 sections have now had 2 sessions) The area which received it's second session last night has blistered. Lots. Really big blisters... Is this normal? The first session didn't really blister - i mean, it did, but not to this extent. These are around the size of cashew nut blisters! Will this happen every session?

Omar Ibrahimi, MD, PhD · Answer

Blisters can happen with laser tattoo removal. I assume you are seeing an office where there is a board certified dermatologist or physician with advanced understanding of lasers as you want to make sure they are approaching the treatment in a appropriate fashion. You might want to call the office and see if they did anything differently this time.

Jennifer Mundt, NMD · Answer

Hello, Blistering can be a normal part of healing after tattoo removal, however there are preventative things you can do to minimize this. Using aloe vera gel and ice to cool the area after a treatment will pull the heat out of you so blister do not form (or at least stay smaller). You may have to aloe or ice this size of an area for 2-3 days to release all the heat from the laser. I also see less blistering from the PicoWay Laser as it uses sound waves for power vs. heat, so you literally do not get as hot after a treatment. Try NOT to pop the blisters and leave the roof of the blisters on the skin. If they need draining then head back to your doctor to do so. Also, I would apply a topical anti-bacterial ointment (like bacitracin zinc) to make sure no infections arise form this type of blistering.

Jacque P. LeBeau, MD · Answer

Blistering of the skin is not uncommon following laser tattoo removal.  I would recommend you return to the provider who performed the treatment to have the area checked if you are having a significantly different response than your initial treatment.  Best Regards,

Laser Tattoo Removal Blistering Getting Worse? (photo)

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Laser Tattoo Removal Blistering Getting Worse? (photo)

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