The invention provides a method of processing a flexographic printing blank to produce a relief image printing element capable of printing cleanly. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a flexographic printing blank comprising: (i) a support layer; (ii) at least one photocurable layer disposed on the support layer, and (iii) a laser ablatable mask layer disposed on the at least one photocurable layer. The at least one photocurable layer comprises a photocurable composition comprising: (1) at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer; (2) at least one silicone monomer or oligomer; (3) at least one binder or oligomer; and (4) a photoinitiator. The laser ablatable mask layer is laser ablated to create an in situ negative in the laser ablatable mask layer. Thereafter, a barrier layer is disposed on the laser ablatable mask layer. The at least one photocurable layer is exposed to actinic radiation through the barrier layer and the laser ablatable mask layer.