Should I be worried about my laser tattoo blister that has popped and is now peeling? (photo)

Question

It stings and I want to prevent infection how do I do this?

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. Blistering is not uncommon with laser tattoo removal, although icing immediately post treatment can help reduce the likelihood of a blister to form. It is also important to follow proper post-care instructions for maximum healing and minimum scarring risks. To be sure what is best for you, it is suggested to contact the provider who performed your treatment 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

This is normal and should subside. I recommend Silagen + Bioshield to promote healing. See an expert upon signs of infection. Best, Dr. Emer

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for the photo and question.  It is hard to predict what to expect at this point as I am not sure when the treatment was done.   Some patients get a blister in the days following a laser treatment, but it usually resolves in a few days and does not feel terribly painful.  If you are noticing increasing pain and pus, please see your physician for treatment.We always apply Bacitracin or Polysporin and a dressing for a few days after our tattoo removal treatments, so ask your dermatologist what they recommend for wound care and best of luck!

Pretidev Ramdawon, MD, PhD · Answer

Blisters should be managed by your treating doctor on the next day after laser tattoo removal treatment when these usually appear in order to avoid their rupture and consecutive peeling. 
But now you are already at the stage of peeling after your laser tattoo removal session. So, you'd need to immediately see your treating doctor for the following: 
The treated area needs to be disinfected, e.g. by the application of betadine dermal solution in sterile conditions. Then the affected area should be covered and protected by a sterile dressing medicated with a cream or ointment of neomycin (anti-bacterial agent) and triamcinolone acetonide (relieves itching, inflammation and redness). This helps to stop the peeling, heal any inflammatory and/or infectious process in the treated area. Dressings should be changed daily. Healing may take a few days till one week. 
The appearance of blisters after laser tattoo removal is a normal though not so frequent phenomenon. This happens especially in hypersensitive or allergic skins and at times may be due to friction with clothes being worn over the treated area. Hope this helps.

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

From your photo it would appear that the reaction that you had is expected.  You do not say when the procedure was performed but, it is not unusual to have peeling and blistering for several days after the treatment.  Our protocol is to use strataderm or bacitracin with a light dressing to keep the area clean.  Watch for signs of infection such as increased pain, pus , redness, fever or chills.  You should call your provider with your concerns. Your provider can best advise you.

P. Alexander Ataii, MD- Account Suspended · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Blistering and peeling is normal with tattoo removal. It should subside within 1-2 weeks after your treatment. If you begin to see pus, abnormal swelling or redness after the 2 weeks, make sure to advise your provider or seek medical attention. Best of luck!

Should I be worried about my laser tattoo blister that has popped and is now peeling? (photo)

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