I'm going ahead with laser tattoo removal. Would you recommend 'dry' healing or is 'moist' healing best for aftercare?

Question

Im about the finally make the leap and have laser tattoo removal on a huge thigh tattoo. Would you suggest dry healing or moist healing is more efficient for optimal results?

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question.  Here in our office we recommend that you keep the area greasy for best results. 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!

Brian Citro, MD · Answer

This is an excellent question! Many years ago it was thought that dry healing helped prevent infections. We now know that this is not true. Using an ointment (petroleum based dressing) is the preferred method for skin wounds. The "moist" dressing helps the skin to heal faster, protects it from the environment, and reduces pain and discomfort. We all know what it feels like to have a dry scab ripped off. Very painful! If the wound is kept moist with an ointment, there is little or no issue with scab pain. Many products are available such as Aquaphor ointment and A&D ointment, or you could use medical grade clear petroleum jelly.

I'm going ahead with laser tattoo removal. Would you recommend 'dry' healing or is 'moist' healing best for aftercare?

Answers (2)

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I'm going ahead with laser tattoo removal. Would you recommend 'dry' healing or is 'moist' healing best for aftercare?

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.