Post-Treatment Aftercare
Official instructions for picosecond laser treatments
Proper pre and post-care for picosecond laser treatments (PicoWay®, PicoSure®, Discovery Pico) is essential to ensure optimal healing, prevent complications (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, infection, scarring) and maximise treatment efficacy. The recommendations below follow clinical protocols from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) and peer-reviewed medical literature.
After Your Treatment — Tattoo Removal
The first 14 days are critical for healing. Strict adherence to these instructions determines the final outcome.
First 24–48 hours
- Apply a cold compress (never ice directly on skin) for 10 minutes every 2 hours to reduce oedema.
- Keep the sterile dressing in place per practitioner instructions (typically 24–72h for tattoo removal).
- Do not wet the area for the first 24 hours — brief showers allowed after, without rubbing.
- Take paracetamol if needed (never ibuprofen or aspirin in the first 48h).
Days 3–14: Healing phase
- Apply a healing cream (Bepanthen, Cicalfate or equivalent) 2–3 times daily until fully healed.
- Blisters, crusts, redness and swelling are normal — never pop blisters, pick crusts or scratch.
- Immediate white frosting (tattoo removal) fades in 20–30 minutes — this is the visible photoacoustic effect of the laser.
- Avoid pools, saunas, steam rooms, hot baths and intense exercise for 7 to 14 days.
Sun protection (mandatory 4–8 weeks)
- Mineral SPF 50+ (zinc, titanium) on the treated area once healed — reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
- Early sun exposure is the leading cause of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), particularly on Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin types.
- Wear covering clothing if the area is exposed. Avoid tanning beds throughout the entire protocol.
Warning signs — contact us
- Persistent intense pain beyond 48h, not relieved by paracetamol.
- Purulent discharge, fever, excessive heat or spreading redness (signs of infection).
- Abnormally large or blood-filled blisters.
- Local allergic reaction (intense itching, spreading rash).
Interval between sessions — Tattoo Removal
Picosecond laser tattoo removal sessions must be spaced at least 6 to 8 weeks apart to allow the lymphatic system to clear fragmented ink particles and the skin to fully heal. Shorter intervals do not accelerate results and increase the risk of complications.
Medical Sources & Clinical References
Our protocols align with recommendations from leading medical institutions and peer-reviewed scientific literature.
Downloadable PDF guide
Take this guide home after your session.
Question about your treatment?
Our medical team is available to answer any post-treatment question. Contact us via WhatsApp or email for personalised follow-up.
Book an appointmentThis information is provided for educational purposes and does not replace personalised instructions from your physician. Always follow the specific advice of the practitioner who treated you.