So, you’ve had your tattoo removal session. The ink’s fading, and now it’s all about recovery. This is where good aftercare really matters. Whether it’s your first treatment or you’re already a few sessions in, the way you treat your skin now will shape how well it heals and how good your results look later.
At Swipe Clinics, we help you recover with confidence. This guide covers everything you need to know about tattoo removal aftercare, from what’s normal to what’s not, and which steps actually make a difference.
“I Don’t Want Scars or Weird Patches” — We Hear You!
Worried your skin might look a bit off after laser tattoo removal? Totally understandable and thankfully, avoidable. Most issues like scarring or patchiness aren’t caused by the laser itself, but by poor aftercare. Things like sun exposure, picking at the area or using harsh products can all slow down recovery.
The good news is, with proper support and simple steps, you can reduce scarring post-tattoo removal and give your skin the best chance to heal cleanly. That’s exactly what we’re here to guide you through.
What’s Normal vs What’s Not After a Session
Straight after your session, the area might feel warm, puffy or tender. Some redness or light blistering can appear, along with a frosty white effect. This is your skin reacting to the laser and starting the healing process.
Itching is also common during the first few days. Try not to scratch. That feeling means your body is doing what it should.
What’s not normal: anything that gets worse instead of better. Look out for pus, spreading redness, or a burning sensation that lingers. If you’re unsure, use our online consultation to check in with a clinician.
5 Easy Aftercare Tips Our Clients Swear By
Looking after your skin doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple habits can make all the difference to your results.
- Wash gently
Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Rinse once or twice a day. No scrubbing.
- Keep it uncovered
After the first 24 hours, avoid wrapping or dressing the area unless your clinician advises otherwise.
- Use the right moisturiser
Choose a post-laser balm that hydrates without clogging.
- Protect from the sun
UV exposure is one of the biggest risks for scarring after tattoo removal. Keep the area covered or once healed, use SPF 50+ on the area. This helps prevent hyperpigmentation after tattoo removal.
- Hands off
Peeling, flaking or mild scabbing is normal. Picking at it can lead to uneven results and prolonged healing.
Following these tips supports faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.
Products That Actually Help (and Ones That Don’t)
Not everything in your bathroom cabinet is suitable for post-laser skin healing. Here’s what we recommend:
Stick with:
- Fragrance-free cleansers
Think gentle, skin-kind and basic. Avoid anything with alcohol, acids or strong foaming agents. A simple cleanser keeps the area clean without stripping it.
- Medical-grade healing balms or gels
Products like aftercare creams made for post-laser skin are your best bet. These support recovery, reduce irritation and help minimise the risk of scarring.
- SPF 50+ once skin has healed
Protecting your skin from UV is one of the most important steps in preventing hyperpigmentation after tattoo removal. Go for a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply if you’re outdoors.
Avoid:
- Petroleum jelly (unless we say otherwise)
It can trap heat and bacteria if applied too soon. Only use it if your clinician recommends it for your specific case.
- Scented lotions, fake tan or exfoliants
These can seriously irritate healing skin. Save them for later.
- DIY remedies or TikTok hacks
Please don’t. Lemon juice, toothpaste or anything homemade has no place in post-laser skin healing.
If you’re not sure, just ask us. We’ll help you choose the right products for your skin. You can also see how others have healed through our results gallery.
When to Check In With Us (or a GP)
Most healing goes to plan. But if something feels off, don’t sit on it. You should contact us if:
- You’re seeing signs of infection, like spreading redness, pus or increasing pain
- The area stays swollen or hot for more than a few days
- You’re not sure if a reaction is normal and want a second opinion
- You’ve had a reaction to an aftercare product
- Your skin isn’t healing the way you expected
Use our online consultation for quick, private advice from our clinicians. If it’s urgent or feels more serious, speak to your GP.
Want a better idea of what healing looks like? Check out our tattoo removal guide.
Want Peace of Mind? We’re Just a Message Away
You don’t need to navigate recovery on your own. Our team is here to make sure you feel confident at every stage.
If you need product advice, a healing check or simply want reassurance, we’re always available. Book a free chat through our online consultation or call us on 1800 794 730.
Heal smart. Heal well. And get back to feeling like yourself.
