Tattoo Removal In Cedar Rapids

During your consultation, we’ll walk you through how to prepare for your tattoo removal. Some general guidelines are to shave 24 hours before the treatment, and avoid getting sunburned or tanned.

Generally, tattoo removal is considered uncomfortable, although we can numb the area. Most patients compare the sensation to a hot rubber band snapping against the skin.

Pre Treatment

Avoid sun exposure including tanning beds for 2 weeks prior and 2 weeks after the treatment.

A cold compress can be applied for 10-15 minutes prior to the treatment.

Avoid pain medication such as Motrin, Aleve and aspirin 3 to 7 days prior to the treatment.

These medications including but not limited to should be stopped for at least 1 week prior to laser or light therapy.

• Antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, levofloxacin, ofloxacin, tetracycline, trimethoprim)
• Antifungals (flucytosine, griseofulvin, voricanozole)
• Antihistamines (cetirizine, diphenhydramine, loratadine, promethazine, cyproheptadine)
• Cholesterol-lowering drugs (simvastatin, atorvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin)
• Diuretics (thiazide diuretics: hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone, chlorothiazide.; other diuretics: furosemide and triamterene)
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib, piroxicam, ketoprofen)
• Oral contraceptives and estrogens
• Phenothiazines (tranquilizers, anti-emetics: examples, chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, promethazine, thioridazine, prochloroperazine)
• Psoralens (methoxsalen, trioxsalen)
• Retinoids (acitretin, isotretinoin)
• Sulfonamides (acetazolamide, sulfadiazine, sulfamethizole, sulfamethoxazole, sulfapyridine, sulfasalazine, sulfasoxazole)
• Sulfonylureas for type 2 diabetes (glipizide, glyburide)
• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) in cosmetics

Post Treatment

Tattoo removal will create a superficial burn wound. Some clients may experience bruising or swelling. There is immediate whitening of the treated area, which usually lasts for several minutes. Many clients then develop blisters, crusts, or scabs within 12-72 hours, which may last for 1-2 weeks or more. The treated areas may be pink or pale after the scab separates. Loss of skin pigment in the treated area is common, and is usually temporary. Healing is usually complete by 6-8 weeks.

• Cleanse treated area at least once daily in the shower with gentle soap and water, pat area dry.
• After cleansing, apply a thin layer of occlusive ointment and cover with a non-stick pad until healed.
• Avoid submerging treated area in water until healed (shower is okay).
• Do not pick, peel or rub the treatment area throughout healing.
• If blistering occurs: Do not pop or pick at blisters. Keep the area moist with occlusive ointment and covered with non-stick dressing.
• Once healed, avoid sun exposure to the treated area. Apply zinc-based sunblock daily and reapply every two hours when outdoors with an SPF of 50 or higher over the area for 3 months following the treatment.
• If the area looks infected, if you experience unusual discomfort or bleeding, if any other complications develop, or if you have any questions or concerns, contact the office immediately.