Can You Use Red Light Therapy Panels Right After Getting a Tattoo?

Tattoos are deeply personal pieces of art that are permanently etched into your flesh, typically reflecting treasured memories, people, or concepts. However, the healing procedure after a tattoo session may be equally important as it can impact how vivid and long-lasting your fresh ink will be. Red light therapy (RLT) has grown in favour as a means of optimal healing due to its ability to speed up recovery. But is it safe to use red light therapy panels right after getting a tattoo? Let's dive into the science and considerations surrounding this question with our team at Rojo Light Therapy UK. 

Understanding tattoo healing: A delicate process

When you get a tattoo, your skin undergoes controlled, invasive surgery. The needles puncture the epidermis and deposit ink into the dermis layer. This process triggers your body's natural immune response, initiating inflammation and a cascade of cellular activities designed to repair the wound.

The healing process usually occurs in multiple stages:

• Days 1–6: Your skin is swollen and sensitive and may ooze plasma or ink residue.
• Days 7–14: Scabbing forms and peeling begins as the outer skin layers regenerate.
• Days 15–30: The deeper dermis layers continue healing, and your tattoo settles into its final appearance.

This intricate process is crucial for the longevity and clarity of your tattoo, making proper aftercare vital.

The science behind RLT

RLT, also known as photobiomodulation, involves exposing the skin to low red and near-infrared (NIR) light wavelengths. These wavelengths penetrate deep into tissues and are absorbed by mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells.

When stimulated, mitochondria produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of cells. This increased energy promotes:

• Reduced inflammation: By modulating cytokines, RLT can lower excessive inflammation.
• Accelerated tissue repair: Stimulating fibroblasts encourages collagen production, which is crucial for wound healing.
• Enhanced blood flow: Improved circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to healing tissues.
• Reduced pain: Light therapy interacts with sensory neurons, helping to ease discomfort.

RLT has become a popular treatment for skin injuries, muscle discomfort, and chronic illnesses such as arthritis due to its numerous benefits. But how does it interact with freshly tattooed skin?

Is RLT safe immediately after a tattoo?

While RLT offers numerous healing benefits, using it immediately after a tattoo can be complicated. Here's what you need to consider:

1. Risk of overheating the skin

Freshly tattooed skin is already inflamed and sensitive. Although RLT is non-invasive, extended exposure to light panels can produce heat. Overheating the area could worsen irritation and even slow down the healing process.

2. Potential interaction with ink

The pigments used in tattoos can vary significantly in composition. Some inks may contain metals or other compounds that react differently under light exposure. Though red light therapy doesn't emit harmful UV radiation, there is a lack of definitive research on how tattoo inks respond to red and NIR wavelengths.

3. Barrier protection during the early healing stage

In the first few days, your tattoo needs a clean and breathable barrier to shield it from bacteria and prevent infection. Introducing any device, including red light therapy panels, might disturb how this barrier functions, and increase the risk of contamination.

When should you start using RLT?

Most experts recommend waiting until the initial healing phase is complete before beginning RLT. This is a general guideline:

• Days 1–6: Focus on basic aftercare—gentle cleansing, avoiding sun exposure, and moisturising the tattoo. Avoid using RLT panels during this period.
• Days 7–14: Consider consulting your tattoo artist or a dermatologist once scabbing has reduced and peeling begins. If your tattoo is healing well, you might begin light therapy in short, monitored sessions.
• Day 15 and beyond: The skin is more stable at this stage. RLT can help enhance the deeper healing process, reduce lingering inflammation, and support optimal skin repair.

Benefits of RLT for healed tattoos

Once your tattoo is fully healed, red light therapy panels can continue offering advantages:

• Maintaining vibrancy: By improving skin health and hydration, RLT can help tattoos retain their vibrancy over time.
• Scar reduction: If your tattoo healing resulted in minor scarring, RLT may help reduce its appearance by stimulating collagen remodelling.

Rojo Light Therapy UK provides high-quality red light therapy panels to meet your skincare and well-being demands. If you're thinking about using RLT for tattoo care or general skin health, check out our devices and see for yourself how they work.

Visit our website today to learn more or consult with our experts about your unique needs.