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Laser tattoo removal.

Eric F Bernstein1

  • 1Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Seminars in Plastic Surgery
|June 23, 2010
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

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Modern tattoo removal utilizes Q-switched lasers, which selectively target ink. While effective, complete removal, especially for multicolored tattoos, often requires multiple sessions and future innovations promise further improvements.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Laser Physics
  • Aesthetic Medicine

Background:

  • Tattooing is a long-standing cultural practice, with modern advancements offering a wide palette of colors.
  • Human desire for change necessitates effective tattoo removal methods, evolving from destructive techniques to selective approaches.
  • Selective photothermolysis revolutionized tattoo removal, enabling ink targeting without significant skin damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the evolution and current state of tattoo removal technology.
  • To highlight the principles of selective photothermolysis in tattoo removal.
  • To discuss the limitations of current methods and potential future advancements.

Main Methods:

  • Discussion of laser technology, specifically Q-switched lasers (neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet, alexandrite, ruby) operating in the nanosecond domain.
Keywords:
LaserNd:YAGQ-switchedalexandritepigmentrubyskintattoo

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  • Comparison with non-selective or inappropriate devices (e.g., intense pulsed light, carbon dioxide lasers).
  • Review of the theoretical basis for optimal pulse durations in tattoo removal.

    • Main Results:

    • Q-switched lasers are the primary tools for effective tattoo removal, minimizing scarring.
    • Suboptimal devices like intense pulsed light or carbon dioxide lasers often lead to scarring and incomplete removal.
    • Current laser treatments, while effective, can require numerous sessions and may not fully remove multicolored tattoos.

    Conclusions:

    • Selective photothermolysis using nanosecond pulse duration lasers is crucial for safe and effective tattoo removal.
    • Further research into tattoo ink properties, removal agents, and potentially shorter pulse durations could enhance future tattoo removal outcomes.
    • Advancements are needed for more efficient and complete removal, particularly for complex, multicolored tattoos.