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Preparing your skin before PicoWay treatment can improve your experience during laser tattoo removal sessions and may benefit your recovery afterwards. Even though PicoWay devices remove tattoo pigment with incredibly short laser pulses, there’s still a chance that your surrounding skin can become irritated. Taking some basic steps before laser tattoo removal can reduce unnecessary irritation and help your technician treat the area. Prepping for laser tattoo removal mainly involves sun protection, avoiding irritating products, and following clinic-specific instructions.
Avoid too much sun exposure before treatment
Proper sun care is one of the most important factors when preparing for tattoo removal with PicoWay. Skin that is tanned or sunburned may be more sensitive to treatment, leading to discomfort or irritation.
Reduce sun exposure on the tattooed area several weeks before your scheduled appointment. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF protection if skin cannot be covered by clothing.Limit time spent in direct sunlight to deliberately tan your skin.
If the skin gets sunburned before your appointment, contact your technician and let them know. They may advise you to reschedule until the skin fully recovers.
Ensure skin is healthy and free from irritation
PicoWay works best on healthy skin free from infection or recent irritation. Avoid scratching, picking, or over-exfoliating the area before treatment. Skin that is broken, inflamed, or irritated might delay or otherwise affect treatment.
Your technician may want to know about skin conditions or allergies before your appointment. While general moisturising is typically fine before tattoo removal, you should avoid trying any new skincare products before treatment.
Stop using irritating skincare products
Retinol skincare, harsh exfoliants, and products containing certain active ingredients may cause irritation or increased sensitivity during treatment. If you regularly use retinol or any retinoid, ask your technician how long to wait after using them before your appointment.
Most clinics recommend avoiding products containing acne medication, glycolic acid, or retinol on the tattooed area immediately before treatment. Exfoliating chemicals or aggressive creams might irritate skin in the moments before your appointment. You should always follow your practitioner’s specific instructions regarding retinol skincare and when to stop using it.
Skip waxing and rubbing hair off
If hair is present over the tattoo, ask your clinic how they would like you to prepare the area. Shaving is not always recommended before the treatment. Waxing, plucking, or hair removal creams can irritate skin and should be avoided before your appointment.
Some patients choose to shave immediately before their treatment session. Unless your technician recommends shaving, you do not need to. Shaving in the wrong direction can irritate skin or cause small cuts, which may impact treatment. Follow any specific instructions provided by your clinic rather than your normal hair removal routine.
Maintain hydration and gentle skincare
Drink plenty of water, avoid drying skincare products or smoke, and continue to maintain your skin as you normally would. There is typically no special cleansing routine required before tattoo removal, though keeping the skin hydrated is always beneficial. Patients with sensitive skin or concerns such as abnormal scarring should speak with their practitioner about these issues during their consultation. Your technician may have additional advice to help you prepare for laser tattoo removal.
Tell your technician about medications
Take the time to mention any current medications, supplements, or health conditions to your technician. Some medications can increase sensitivity to sunlight or affect how your skin responds to lasers.
Never stop taking prescribed medication because of a tattoo removal appointment. Inform your practitioner, and they’ll let you know whether the treatment is still recommended. Adjustments can sometimes be made if you’re taking medication that may interfere with recovery. It’s also a good idea to mention if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, prone to keloids or hypertrophic scarring, or have an active skin condition.
Keep the area clean before treatment
The tattooed area should generally be clean before removal. Avoid using any skin care products such as fake tan, heavy moisturisers, perfumes, or makeup on the area. There can be exceptions if your clinic uses a topical numbing cream or asks you to moisturise right before treatment.
Wear clothing you don’t mind having hair pulled off during the treatment session. Loose clothing can also prevent unnecessary rubbing on the treated area after sessions. A good rule of thumb is to arrive slightly early and clean your skin by showering or bathing beforehand.
Follow instructions provided by your clinic
Always remember that every clinic has different requirements for laser tattoo removal. You should always follow instructions provided by your practitioner before attending an appointment. Factors such as tattoo location, ink colour, skin type, previous removals, and health can affect the suggested guidelines.
Clinics often review the tattoo before your first session. It’s here that they can customise your treatment plan based on how your skin reacts. Asking questions during your consultation can clarify what you need to do before each session and what to expect during and after treatment.
Preparing for PicoWay tattoo removal treatment doesn’t have to be complicated. Ensuring your skin is cared for, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and following your clinic’s advice are all ways to arrive at your appointment with clean skin. If you’re looking into PicoWay skin laser treatment in Melbourne, be sure to research your provider in advance. Look for clinics that offer consultations and discuss your health history before providing custom skin-preparation advice.