Preparation Guide

How to Prepare for Laser Tattoo Removal

A little preparation goes a long way. Following these steps before your treatment helps your skin respond better to the laser, reduces side effects, and can even speed up your results.

Evidence-Based
5 Min Read
PicoSure Specific
4 Weeks Before

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Tanned or sun-damaged skin absorbs laser energy differently, which can reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. Start protecting the tattoo area well before your session.

  • Avoid sun exposure on the tattoo area. Cover it with clothing or stay in the shade when outdoors
  • Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily over the tattoo, even on cloudy days or if the area is usually covered by clothing
  • Stop using self-tanning products (sprays, creams, drops) on or near the treatment area
If you have a recent sunburn or active tan on the treatment area, let us know. We may need to reschedule to keep you safe.
1 Week Before

Get Your Body Ready

Your immune system plays a key role in clearing the shattered ink particles after treatment. Give it the best chance by looking after your body in the days leading up to your session.

  • Stay well hydrated. Aim for 2+ litres of water daily to support your lymphatic system
  • Avoid excessive alcohol. It dehydrates your body and can thin the blood, increasing bruising
  • Stop blood-thinning supplements if possible. Fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and similar supplements can increase bruising
Do not stop any prescribed blood-thinning medication without speaking to your doctor first. Let us know at your appointment and we will adjust your treatment accordingly.
Day of Treatment

Arrive Ready for Your Session

A few simple steps on the morning of your appointment will make the session smoother and more comfortable for you.

  • Shave the treatment area if there is any hair over the tattoo. This allows the laser to target the ink directly
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the tattoo (e.g. shorts for a leg tattoo, a singlet for shoulder work)
  • Eat a light meal beforehand. Don't arrive on an empty stomach, as it can make you feel lightheaded
  • Skip the caffeine if you are feeling nervous. It can heighten sensitivity and anxiety
  • Arrive with clean skin, no lotions, creams, makeup, deodorant, or sunscreen over the tattoo area
During Your Session

What to Expect During Treatment

Knowing what happens during a session removes most of the anxiety. Here is what your visit looks like from start to finish.

5 -- 15 Minutes Active laser time. Small tattoos take just a few minutes; larger pieces take a little longer.
Rubber Band Snap Most clients compare the sensation to a rubber band being snapped against the skin.
Cooling Device We use a chilled-air cooling system during treatment to keep your skin comfortable.
Protective Eyewear Both you and your technician wear specialised laser safety glasses throughout the session.
Pain Management

How We Keep You Comfortable

We take comfort seriously. Most clients are surprised at how manageable the treatment feels, especially with our PicoSure laser which delivers ultra-short pulses.

Cooling Device Chilled air directed at the skin before, during, and after each laser pass
Numbing Cream Available on request, applied 20-30 minutes before your session for sensitive areas
Better Than Expected The vast majority of our clients say it is far more comfortable than they anticipated
Medications

Medications to Avoid Before Treatment

Certain medications and supplements can thin the blood or increase skin sensitivity. Avoid these for at least 24 hours before your session.

Aspirin Thins the blood and increases bruising risk
Ibuprofen Anti-inflammatory that thins the blood (Nurofen, Advil)
Blood Thinners Prescription anticoagulants. Speak to your doctor before stopping
Paracetamol Safe to take before treatment (Panadol, Panamax)
Taking prescription medication? Give us a call on 0440 133 330 before your appointment and we will advise you on the best approach.
Common Questions

Preparation FAQ

Quick answers to the questions we hear most from clients before their first session.

Ideally yes. Shaving the treatment area before your appointment allows the laser to target the ink more effectively without hair absorbing the energy. If you forget or are unable to shave, don't stress. We can help you at the clinic before your session starts.
Paracetamol (Panadol) is perfectly fine to take 30 minutes before your appointment. However, avoid aspirin and ibuprofen (Nurofen) for at least 24 hours before treatment, as they thin the blood and can increase bruising. If you are unsure about any medication, call us beforehand.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the tattoo being treated. For a leg tattoo, wear shorts or loose pants. For a shoulder or back piece, a singlet or button-up shirt works well. Tight or restrictive clothing can irritate the treated area afterwards.
The actual laser treatment takes between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of your tattoo. When you factor in the initial skin check, preparation, and aftercare instructions, expect to be at the clinic for about 20 to 30 minutes in total. First visits may take slightly longer as we walk you through the full process.
Most clients compare the sensation to a rubber band being snapped against the skin. It is a sharp, quick feeling rather than a prolonged ache. We use a cooling device during treatment to minimise discomfort, and numbing cream is available on request for more sensitive areas. The overwhelming feedback from our clients is that it was far more comfortable than they expected.
Light exercise before your session is fine. However, avoid intense exercise that causes excessive sweating immediately before your appointment. Make sure the treatment area is clean and free of sweat, lotions, or any products when you arrive. We recommend showering after exercise and before your session.

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