What is Frosting? And no, it’s not related to sweets.
Over the years, tattoos have evolved from physical markings in commemoration of ceremonial rites and passages to a much-loved art form of self-expression. These designs are etched onto the skin by way of ink and needles, the pigments penetrating deeper layers of the dermis. So, no matter the reason or intention, the decision to acquire permanent body ink comes with significant considerations.
Yet, sometimes, even after all the careful planning and deliberations once displayed before getting inked, a few years later could have even the best of us regretting our life choices. It is the frivolity of the human mind that laser tattoo removals came into existence. Thanks to modern technology, the procedure has grown tremendously over the past few decades. Now, laser treatments are just as popular as the inking process itself.
Those who may not know how laser tattoo removals work or those entering their first session may notice a white or chalky effect appearing immediately on the affected skin after or during the treatment. The residue is what we call frosting.
What is tattoo removal frosting?
Not to be confused about the sweet and often creamy glaze on your favourite desserts, the frosting we refer to is the after-effect of a tattoo removal laser.
It is most likely a term you have not heard from before due to the relatively recent age technology that lasers have today, thus not anticipating your skin’s look and feel during or after treatment. However, the name was indeed derived and inspired from a cake’s decadent white substance.
But, do not be alarmed or apprehensive about your session. Seeing that white layer on your laser-treated tattoo is perfectly normal and an integral part of the ink removal procedure and proper ink retention, as alarming as it may seem at first.
Why does tattoo removal frosting happen?
Understanding why this phenomenon happens requires the knowledge of how laser tattoo removals work.
Tattoo removal lasers were mainly designed to precisely target and shatter ink particles. The laser emits acoustic energy, which, when moved over the skin, targets unwanted ink. This contact, in turn, produces tiny bubbles to appear on the surface of the skin. These air globules, often white, foam up, giving the skin a ‘frosted’ appearance. This effect is due to a chemical reaction from the laser’s heat and the skin’s ink pigments.
The laser light goes off in several directions after penetrating the skin. Some of it bounces and reflects off the skin, while some of it hits right where the epidermis is. The penetration and range are what make laser tattoo removals effective.
When tattoo ink gets heated up quickly, a gas is released to the skin’s topmost layers. The gas turns into bubbles of carbon dioxide that appear over the treated ink and skin. This reaction means that the ink fragments are absorbed and be naturally removed by the body’s immune system. As weird as it looks, frosting is a sign of the body’s natural healing process at work.
How long does tattoo removal frosting last?
And do not worry, this reaction does not last very long. For most patients, the tattoo side effect lasts only between 15 to 30 minutes after the treatment. For others, it is as quick as five to 10 minutes.
Depending on the number of sessions you have already had, the frosting should make fewer appearances as most of your ink has been removed. By the time you reach your last session, no more frosting will be visible.
To reiterate, frosting is a healthy sign that your bodily functions are doing as they should, eliminating all the pulverized ink particles. But as with any health-related issue, everyone is different. You may find yourself responding differently to the laser session. It is best to bring them up with your doctor or a tattoo removal specialist for any concerns you may have.
What do I need to do after treatments?
Some technicians may even provide you with an aftercare kit, including detailed instructions, as well as top healing products to ensure that your skin heals correctly and safely. Some of these recommendations may include the following:
Vaseline, Aquaphor, or Hydrocortisone cream
The laser-treated skin requires moisture in and around the area as it heals. These products will help re-hydrate the skin.
Vitamin E ointment
This one helps to restore damaged skin cells.
Sunblock (at least with SPF25+)
Wearing this any time you go outside is essential. Sun exposure is the last thing you need right after a session
But these are general after-treatment protocols. Your doctor or specialist will give you specific instructions as necessary as they know what will work on your skin type and condition.
Where is the best place to get laser tattoo removal?
For expert tattoo removal, there is nowhere else to go but Vanish Clinic. Our signature advance PicoWay laser technology is designed to deliver quick and efficient tattoo removal (or fading for re-inking). It is your sure bet to faster healing and safer treatments.
Unlike traditional q-switched lasers, the PicoWay does a complete spectrum removal of the ink pigments in record time while ensuring the least amount of discomfort and injury to the patient.
We also offer this transformative treatment with a flat fee pricing of $200, with a maximum of a 6” x 6” area of tattoo removal during any one treatment, be this a combination of multiple smaller tattoos or one more giant tattoo. This specific allotment allows the body to heal in-between sessions properly. It saves you cash, too, unlike most clinics with varying prices per tattoo and the size of each one.
So, do away with at least one of your life’s regrets. Our treatment makes sure that questionable tattoos are not as permanent as you once thought. You can go out with the old and in with the new.
Contact us and book your free consultation today! Our trained laser technician and aesthetic nurse are ever ready to help you restart your journey and achieve your desired skin.
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