The two weeks leading up to your first pico laser session matter as much as what happens in the room. Here’s a clear, complete guide on how to prepare for your first pico laser tattoo removal session — what to do, what to avoid, what to ask your provider, and what to bring with you.
Two weeks before your session
Stop sun exposure on the area
Strict sun avoidance is critical. Recent tanning or sunburns make pico treatment riskier and the area can’t be treated safely. Sunscreen SPF 50+ daily; wear long sleeves if needed.
Stop self-tanner
Stop applying self-tanner to the area at least 2 weeks before. Self-tanner darkens the surface and confuses the laser’s targeting.
Stop retinoids and active skincare on the area
Avoid retinol, tretinoin, glycolic acid, and other active skincare products on or near the treatment area for 5-7 days before.
One week before
Discuss medications with your provider
Tell them about:
- Blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, certain supplements)
- Photosensitizing medications (some antibiotics, retinoids)
- Recent Accutane use (need 6-12 months gap)
- Steroids
Some medications can be paused; others may need session delay.
Consider numbing cream
If you’re using a prescription numbing cream, ask your provider whether to apply it 30-45 minutes before your appointment. Many clinics apply their own.
Day before your session
Stay hydrated
Drink water. Hydrated skin tolerates treatment slightly better and lymph clearance works better.
Skip alcohol and aspirin
Both increase bruising and bleeding risk.
Eat a normal meal
Skipping breakfast can make you light-headed during treatment. Eat normally.
Plan transportation if needed
Most patients drive themselves, but if your tattoo is on your hand, finger, or another location that might affect driving comfort, plan accordingly.
Day of your session
Take ibuprofen 400-600mg about 60 minutes before
Reduces both discomfort during treatment and post-treatment inflammation. Don’t take aspirin — raises bleeding risk.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Specifically clothing that:
- Easy access to the treatment area
- Won’t rub on the area after treatment
- You don’t mind getting numbing cream or ointment on
Don’t apply lotion, moisturizer, or perfume to the area
Skin should be clean and dry.
Arrive 30 minutes early if numbing in-office
Numbing cream needs 30-45 minutes to work fully. Some clinics apply it before you arrive; others as you wait.
Bring distractions
Headphones, podcast queued up, audiobook. Sessions are short but the distraction helps.
What to expect at the appointment
- Consultation review: provider confirms treatment plan, photographs the tattoo, marks the area
- Numbing cream: applied to skin, 30-45 minutes of wait time
- Protective eyewear: mandatory for you and the operator
- Treatment: 5-30 minutes depending on tattoo size. Cold air cooling typically running
- Immediately after: ointment applied, area may be bandaged, instructions reviewed
- Aftercare review: verbal + printed instructions
- Schedule next session: 6-8 weeks out
Questions to ask before they start
- Confirm the laser machine and settings being used
- Ask about the numbing protocol they’re using
- Confirm aftercare ointment/product they’re providing
- Ask about expected healing timeline
- Get their direct number for post-treatment questions
What to bring
- Photo ID and insurance card (for paperwork)
- Method of payment
- Headphones for distraction
- Loose clothing or change of clothing
- List of medications you’re taking
- Phone for taking before-photos if helpful
What NOT to do
- Don’t drink alcohol the day before or day of
- Don’t take aspirin
- Don’t apply lotion or makeup to the area
- Don’t tan or sun the area
- Don’t shave the area immediately before (5-7 days fine; same-day not recommended)
- Don’t reschedule if you’re sick — postpone
Bottom line
The right prep is mostly about sun avoidance, hydration, and following your provider’s specific instructions. The single most common mistake patients make is not being upfront about medications or recent sun exposure — both can change how the session goes. Read the full session-by-session guide.