I had a tattoo removed yesterday (on the side of my wrist , a letter B) w/ laser. And nothing happened at all. Advice? (photo)

Question

Eric Seiger, DO · Answer

It sounds like this may be your first session and,
unfortunately, you will need more than that to remove your tattoo. Even with
the strongest lasers – like Picosure – it takes multiple sessions to remove
tattoos, sessions which must be separated by 5 to 6 weeks in order to allow the
ink particles to clear. Just be patient and talk to your doctor to schedule
your next tattoo removal session

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Picosure is the latest in
tattoo removal technology. Tattoos are made up of ink that has been placed into
the deeper layer of the skin, the dermis. This layer of skin is not shed like
the upper layers of your skin, but remains in place, which is what makes tattoos
permanent. In order to remove them, the cells that hold the ink have to be
removed. The Picosure laser is able to do this in fewer treatments then older technologies,
typically 4-8 sessions at 4-6 week intervals. After each session you need to
allow your body time to break down and rid itself of these ink particles. I
would continue treatment as determined by your provider. Good luck

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, You did not say if this was your first treatment, but I am assuming that it is.  Tattoo removal is multiple treatments. Depending on the device being used it can take between 3 and 10 sessions to remove the ink.  The laser is shattering the ink into tiny particles that your lymph system filters out.  It takes your body time to absorb the ink particles.  Be sure to keep the area hydrated with petroleum jelly or aquaphor, and covered with a bandage if you are able to do so.  This will help the healing process and help prevent scarring.  You should expect to return for another treatment within 4-8 weeks depending on the device that is being used on you. Good Luck!

Marilyn Pelias, MD · Answer

You appear to have the appropriate amount of skin reaction from your tattoo removal.  The fading will occur over the next 4-8 weeks.  Then you will be ready for another session.  Tattoo removal depends on your body to remove the broken down ink from your system  This takes time.

I had a tattoo removed yesterday (on the side of my wrist , a letter B) w/ laser. And nothing happened at all. Advice? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Tatto Removal is not instant

Answer: Tatto Removal is not instant

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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I had a tattoo removed yesterday (on the side of my wrist , a letter B) w/ laser. And nothing happened at all. Advice? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Tatto Removal is not instant

Answer: Tatto Removal is not instant

Browse related questions

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.