Laser Tattoo Removal In Summer
When it comes to doing our job as laser tattoo removal specialists, our first priority will always be to keep your skin safe. This proves to be more challenging in the summertime as many of our patients are eager to spend their days outdoors; nonetheless, we are committed to helping you erase your unwanted ink.
While kids may be heading back to school soon, the summer season (and heat) is still in full effect. If you’re looking to have laser tattoo removal, you don’t have to wait for cooler seasons to roll around! Read on to learn about proper laser tattoo removal care in the summer and have all your summer tattoo removal questions answered.
Can I Have Laser Tattoo Removal in the Summer?
Yes! Although you may see some clinics talk about fall or winter as the best seasons for this treatment, we disagree. If you have your laser tattoo removal done by an experienced specialist, like the MEDermis Laser Clinic team, and follow proper aftercare recommendations, you’ll be fine any time of the year.
The MEDermis Laser Clinic team has been proudly serving Texas for decades, and our team of Certified Laser Specialists knows exactly what to do.
How to Enjoy Fun in the Sun After Laser Tattoo Removal
You have to remember that the area of skin being treated during laser tattoo removal is extremely sensitive. If you were to expose this area to the sun during or too soon after treatment, you would run the risk of hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation.
Apart from these issues, your skin is healing and vulnerable to burns that could lead to permanent scarring. It’s best to avoid direct sun exposure following treatments and while your skin is still tender.
What Sun Does to Your Tattoo Removal
Whether you’re trying to sneak in one last beach trip or spend the weekend at the pool before summer ends, this isn’t a great idea for those going through the laser removal process. Sure, there’s an argument to be made that the Vitamin D we get from being outside in the sun is good for our body and can support our immune system, which is necessary for a successful removal process. However, it’s the melanin in our skin that soaks up the radiation from the sun, causing our skin to be brown or get red, depending on your genes and suncare practices.
The darker your skin is, the more complicated it is to remove a tattoo. Although new laser technology and an experienced laser specialist make the job possible, it’s best to avoid sun exposure before beginning your laser tattoo removal process. Additionally, if you have a sunburn, peeling skin, or blisters from sunburn, your treatments may be delayed as we do not perform removal procedures on damaged skin.
Common Questions for Laser Removal in the Summer
Now, let’s get into the big stuff. We know you’re all curious as to what summer activities we won’t want you partaking in and which ones are safe. Take a look at our list below to learn which summer activities should be avoided and how you can take care of your skin during laser tattoo removal.
- Tanning: This includes laying out by the pool, ocean, in your backyard as well as tanning beds. You should also avoid using any fake tanning products (lotions, creams, sprays, etc.) during treatment as many have materials that react badly with lasers and may lead to irregular pigmentation.
- Swimming: Sorry to say it, but no pool time during your treatment. While a little water is okay and you may certainly take a shower, you want to steer clear of hot or potentially dirty water to lower your risk of infection. If you absolutely must get out in the water, it’s best to wait a few days after treatment and until redness or any blisters have completely healed.
- Keep the Area Covered: SPF is essential. You should be using a quality sunscreen daily but especially while undergoing laser tattoo removal. Be sure to slather on the sunblock and take extra precautions by wearing breathable clothing that covers your skin.
- Moisturize: Be mindful of your treated area and keep it moisturized, especially in the summer when the high Texas temperatures can be stealing moisture from your skin. We recommend applying a thin layer of Aquaphor or a Vitamin E ointment on the treated area any time you’ll be outside.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Sweat: Some patients think sweating is frowned upon, but we know that for those living in Texas it’s impossible to avoid. While it’s important to let your body rest and heal, being active is also an integral aspect of encouraging healing. The more active you are, the quicker your body is likely to remove the ink particles broken down during your laser treatments.
- Cover Up Wisely: We want to touch on one of our earlier tips, covering up. It’s important to protect the skin that’s being exposed to laser treatment, but you should avoid restrictive clothing as it won’t allow the skin fresh air and could also cause excessive friction. Both can impede the healing process and cause permanent damage to your skin.
With this information in mind, it’s generally a good idea to wait at least four weeks after your treatment before going back in the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, then try to limit exposure to 10 minutes at a time and always follow the tips from above.
Ask An Expert
When in doubt, get in touch with the MEDermis team! During your FREE consultation, our Certified Laser Specialists can help explain more about the dangers of sun exposure during treatment as well as important aftercare steps to follow. We’ll be your guide so that you can have a safe and successful laser tattoo removal this summer!
Get in touch with us today! You can sign up now by filling out our online contact form, calling our Austin clinic at 512-637-5277 or the San Antonio clinic at 210-402-4030, or shoot us a quick message to info@medermislaserclinic.com and let us know which location works for you.