Clinical Evaluation Of Cooling Gel Patches in Laser Tattoo Removal
Jan 13, 2026
Pain Reduction and Skin Protection During 1064nm Laser Treatment
Laser tattoo removal is widely used in medical aesthetics, yet treatment-related pain and immediate skin reactions such as swelling or blistering remain common clinical concerns. Improving patient comfort while maintaining treatment effectiveness is an important focus for clinics and device manufacturers.
This clinical evaluation investigates the application of a cooling gel patch during laser tattoo removal, focusing on its ability to reduce pain, control skin temperature, and protect the epidermis without interfering with laser performance.
Background: Pain and Skin Reactions in Laser Tattoo Removal
During laser tattoo removal, rapid photothermal reactions can cause significant discomfort, burning sensations, and short-term inflammatory responses. Common immediate side effects include:
- Sharp or burning pain during treatment
- Localized skin swelling or edema
- Risk of blister formation in sensitive areas
Adjunctive cooling methods are often used to address these issues. This study evaluates a cooling gel patch as a practical and continuous cooling solution during treatment.
Objective of the Clinical Evaluation
The objective of this self-controlled clinical test was to determine whether continuous application of a cooling gel patch during laser tattoo removal could:
- Reduce subjective pain perception
- Lower skin surface temperature during treatment
- Minimize immediate post-treatment skin reactions
- Maintain normal laser treatment efficacy and endpoint visibility
Study Design and Methodology
A self-controlled comparative study was conducted on a single tattoo area:
- The same tattoo was evenly divided into a test side and a control side
- Test side: laser treatment performed with a cooling gel patch applied throughout the procedure
- Control side: standard laser tattoo removal without gel patch
Observation Parameters
- Subjective pain assessment
- Immediate skin response after treatment
- Skin surface temperature measured during the procedure
This design ensured direct comparison under identical treatment conditions.
Subject Information and Laser Parameters
- Subject: One healthy adult male volunteer
- Tattoo type: Single-color (black) tattoo on the upper limb
- Laser device: BM32
Treatment parameters:
- Wavelength: 1064 nm
- Energy: 400 mJ
- Spot size: 5 mm
- Frequency: 4 Hz
Identical laser settings were used on both sides to ensure reliable and objective results.
Gel patch applied on one side.
Contrast side procedure completed.
Side-by-side comparison:
Left side (without gel pad):
White protrusion and swelling observed after procedure.
Right side (with gel pad):
No swelling or protrusion observed.
Clinical Results
Skin Temperature Control
Skin surface temperature was measured using an infrared thermometer:
- Without cooling gel patch: 36.4°C
- With cooling gel patch applied: 30°C
The cooling gel patch significantly reduced surface temperature during laser exposure, helping to limit heat accumulation.
Pain Perception During Treatment
- Test side (with cooling gel patch)
The subject reported minimal discomfort, described as a mild ant-bite sensation. A clear cooling and calming effect reduced laser-induced pain.
- Control side (standard procedure)
The subject experienced continuous sharp and burning pain, similar to intense heat or rubber band snapping, with noticeable discomfort.
Immediate Post-Treatment Skin Response
- Test side
Skin remained flat and stable, with no visible blistering, swelling, or protrusion.
- Control side
Mild diffuse edema was observed immediately after treatment.
These findings indicate improved skin tolerance when cooling gel patches are used.
Impact on Laser Tattoo Removal Effectiveness
Clinical observation confirmed that the cooling gel patch:
- Did not interfere with laser energy transmission
- Did not affect treatment endpoint identification (immediate whitening of tattoo pigment)
- Showed no adhesion issues and caused no additional skin damage upon removal
Tattoo removal effectiveness remained consistent with standard treatment outcomes.
Conclusion: Clinical Value of Cooling Gel Patches in Laser Tattoo Removal
This clinical evaluation demonstrates that continuous application of a cooling gel patch during laser tattoo removal can:
- Significantly reduce treatment-related pain
- Lower skin surface temperature during laser exposure
- Prevent immediate post-treatment reactions such as edema or blistering
- Maintain normal laser performance and treatment efficacy
The method is safe, practical, and easy to integrate into routine clinical workflows, making it a valuable adjunctive option for laser tattoo removal procedures focused on patient comfort and skin protection.
