Should cold packs before laser treatment (tattoo removal) burn the skin?

Question

I've had 4 laser tattoo removal treatments. The last time I went, the cold packs were very cold and left on a long time (maybe 10 minutes). As a result, I have burns on my skin (not where the tattoo is) that hurt and look worse than the laser removal area! Should I complain to the company that is doing the removal?

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

SOUNDS LIKE THIS IS FROSTBITE. THEY WERE LEFT DIRECTLY ON YOUR SKIN WITHOUT BEING WRAPPED IN SOMETHING AND LEFT ON FOR TOO LONG

Phillip Bekhor, MBBS, FACD · Answer

Ice is a wonderful anesthetic if used correctly but if it is left on the skin for too long it will burn you, just like frost bite. It is definitely negligent to leave a pack in place. It is important to return to the clinic who performed the treatment - they need to know that their technique is causing complications. If pain relief is an issue for you during treatment I would suggest you find a  medical practice, preferably and experienced laser dermatologist who can offer you local anesthetic before your treatment. Best of luck.

Should cold packs before laser treatment (tattoo removal) burn the skin?

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Should cold packs before laser treatment (tattoo removal) burn the skin?

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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