If you’re looking at getting a tattoo removed, it’s essential to do some research before going ahead with laser treatment. From the final look to possible side effects, it’s important to know exactly what to expect. Here are 5 more things that you should know before getting laser tattoo removal.

Image Credit

What to expect afterwards

Unsurprisingly, after you have completed the treatment, you may be left with some temporary symptoms. This can include swelling, redness, slight bleeding and blisters. The good news is that these symptoms will only usually last a couple of weeks, before subsiding. They are completely normal and a common effect of laser tattoo removal. A cold compress such as frozen peas wrapped in a towel may help ease any discomfort, but any concerns should be addressed by your doctor.

Side effects

As with all procedures, there is a chance of side effects. With laser tattoo removal, the most common issue is the darkening or lightening of the skin, which is known as hyper-pigmentation or hypo-pigmentation. It is usually corrected in 6-12 months, so no further treatment is needed.

Darkening effect

Depending on the colours used in your tattoo, the ink may actually darken after treatments. This is due to a reaction involving titanium dioxide. If the ink contains iron, it is likely that the tattoo will turn grey straight after the treatment. It can, however, be corrected with further treatment.

Image Credit

Darker skin

If your skin tone is dark, there is a bigger chance that hypo-pigmentation may occur, which will cause the skin to lighten. When a tattoo is being removed, it will remove the pigment, but it can also remove the pigment from your skin if you have dark skin. A test spot should always be done first, to lessen the risk.

Ask questions

Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need before going ahead with the treatment. If you’re looking for laser tattoo removal in Gloucestershire, look at several clinics, such as http://www.chlaser.co.uk/, and make sure you look at before and after pictures, to see how effective they are. Look for similar skin tones to yours, so you know what to expect.

It’s always important to do your research before committing to any treatment. Look for regulations, a clean environment and testimonials to see what others have said.