I've had 3 laser treatments and I'm planning on going on vacation to the beach. Is it safe to swim in the ocean?

Question

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. It is depending on what your last laser treatment was. It is important to avoid direct sun exposure for 2 weeks pre and post laser treatments to minimize any risks of pigmentation issues. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It depends on when your last treatment was. Generally, it is advised to avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks after laser treatment. I recommend following up with your practitioner about their recommendations for sun exposure and swimming in the ocean after your treatment. Best, Dr. Emer

Joel Schlessinger, MD · Answer

If you have had lasers the question isn't whether you can go in the ocean as much as in the sun or not.  Lasers are very different from procedure to procedure and some need careful and strict after care.  It is best to ask your doctor what they think as they will know.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. If you are 3 weeks post-treatment and fully healed you are perfectly okay to go into the water. You will only need to protect the treated area from sun exposure to minimize your risk of pigmentation issues. I recommend addressing your concerns with your treating physician. Best of Luck!

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

If the skin is healed from the laser and you are more than 3 weeks after treatment, it is perfectly fine to go in the water. You must protect from the sun or the future laser treatments will need to be delayed. If you have gotten tan or sunburned, you must wait at least 3 weeks from that time for the next treatment. There is increased risks of burns and pigmentation problems if the laser treatments are done too soon after sun exposure.

I've had 3 laser treatments and I'm planning on going on vacation to the beach. Is it safe to swim in the ocean?

Answers (5)

Answer: Is it safe to swim in the ocean after treatment?

Answer: Is it safe to swim in the ocean after treatment?

Answer: Is it safe to swim in ocean after laser tattoo removal?

Answer: Is it safe to swim in ocean after laser tattoo removal?

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I've had 3 laser treatments and I'm planning on going on vacation to the beach. Is it safe to swim in the ocean?

Answers (5)

Answer: Is it safe to swim in the ocean after treatment?

Answer: Is it safe to swim in the ocean after treatment?

Answer: Is it safe to swim in ocean after laser tattoo removal?

Answer: Is it safe to swim in ocean after laser tattoo removal?

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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.