It used to be that tattoos were permanent. But today, because of advancements in laser technology, it is possible to get rid of the ‘mistakes’ you made in your younger years. Laser tattoo removal may or may not completely remove a tattoo, but the benefit is with proper care, the risk of scarring or infection is low. 

To lower the risk even further. Clinical and anecdotal self-reports suggest that you should use CBD for tattoo aftercare. Why? The non-psychoactive extract of hemp or cannabis is proven to hasten healing, prevent scarring, and exhibits analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Laser technology relies on light and heat to break down the ink. Consequently, one may experience inflammation, pain, itching, and discomfort. 

Below is everything you need to know about CBD oil and laser tattoo removal.

Quick take: CBD oil for tattoo aftercare. 

• CBD oil can destroy antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria when applied topically.  
• Blisters are a natural reaction to laser tattoo removal. Recommend leaving them alone and applying CBD oil until they dry out and flake. Larger blisters may require draining. 
• After laser tattoo removal, wash treated skin with antimicrobial soap at least once every 24 hours, and apply petroleum jelly or CBD oil for protection from infection.
• Seek immediate care if treated skin, blister, or wound exhibits symptoms of infection.
• Indicators of infection include pain that gets worse, yellow/green pus, inflammation, and discomfort. 

CBD oil for tattoo aftercare: What helps laser tattoo removal heal faster?

Laser tattoo removal involves the use of equipment that may damage the skin. Normally, the procedure should not damage the surrounding tissue. Compared to other methods, including excision, dermabrasion, and salabrasion, laser tattoo removal is safer.

With laser tattoo removal, the risk of scarring and infection is lower. 

What are the risk factors, and how can CBD oil help?

CBD oil is an extract of hemp or cannabis that can be used at any stage of tattoo removal. For enhanced effect, you may couple CBD with coconut oil, hydrocortisone, and petroleum jelly. 

However, there are a few risks you should be aware of. 

Learn to identify the ‘normal reaction’ to laser tattoo removal

After laser tattoo removal, it should take anywhere from a month or two for treated skin to heal. In that time, it is ‘normal’ to exhibit the following side effects.

• Itchiness. You may experience warmth, itchiness, and discomfort. What you must do is avoid scratching or picking treated skin as it may lead to infection.
• Scabbing. Scabs will form on the treated skin. Scabs are usually made up of dead skin and tattoo ink. Picking at them may cause infection. Instead, focus on keeping the area moist using CBD oil, petroleum jelly, or coconut oil. 
• Inflammation. The body reacts to damage and infiltration by foreign substances including tattoo ink, by triggering inflammation. Because of that, mild inflammation is normal. You know there could be an issue if the pain gets progressively worse, or is accompanied by other symptoms.
• Scarring and keloids. Although rare, scarring can occur. Keloids are a long-term risk.
• Hyper or hypopigmentation may occur. 

You should consult a physician or dermatologist if the side effects above do not improve within a month or if you feel that something is wrong. 

Blisters will form

Tip. Popping blisters before they dry out can cause pain and increases the risk of infection. Experts thus recommend:

• Leave it alone. It will take up to a week or more for blisters to dry up and flake off. Remember, blisters are a normal reaction to skin damage and protect the skin from further damage. You may cushion, cover, or pad blisters to avoid premature popping.
• Couple CBD oil with natural remedies, including tea tree oil, green tea, or aloe vera, to hasten healing. 

Fluid-filled blisters will occur on treated skin. What you can do to hasten healing is:

• Apply CBD oil directly to blisters to hasten healing and manage pain. If a blister pops prematurely -cover it with CBD oil or petroleum jelly to prevent infection. 

Why use CBD oil?

CBD oil, in its purest form, according to the FDA, is a safe cannabinoid when applied topically. According to research, the cannabinoid is effective at treating and preventing the majority of the listed symptoms with little to no side effects.

Additionally, CBD is well tolerated by the majority, meaning there is little to no risk of developing allergic reactions. 

How do you use CBD oil for laser tattoo removal aftercare?

Based on clinical and anecdotal evidence, you may:

• Apply CBD oil directly to treated skin to reduce redness, swelling, and itching.
• Apply CBD butter or petroleum jelly to form a protective layer on treated skin. That helps to reduce the risk of breaking, infection and scarring.
• Use CBD scrubs after healing (wait at least a month) to remove dead skin and leftover ink.

What not to do after laser tattoo removal?

Post laser tattoo removal, it is recommended that you avoid doing the following:

• Avoid exposing treated skin to the sun, as it may cause a photosensitive reaction. 
• Do not scrub, excise, scratch, or in any way damage treated skin. 
• Avoid contact with dirty hands or fingers, including your own. 

In short, keep treated skin clean, moisturized (use a moisturizer or CBD oil), and away from irritants, including the sun. 

Keep treated skin free of infection

Treated skin is likely to dry and break easily. Additionally, the formation of scabs or the damage that may result puts you at risk of infection.

Multiple studies suggest that CBD oil can help prevent infection. 

To that end, you should:

• Protect treated skin for at least 24 hours after treatment. Apply CBD oil or petroleum jelly to prevent damage or irritation while removing the protective dressing. 
• Apply antibiotic ointment.

Can I use Vaseline after laser tattoo removal?

Yes. Petroleum jelly can be used to form a protective layer on blisters or treated skin. 

We recommend warming the petroleum jelly of choice and mixing it with CBD oil. You may also use CBD jelly or butter.