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[Accidental dirt tattooing. Removal with Q-switched ruby laser]
S Hellwig1, M Schönermark, C Raulin
1Praxis für Dermatologie und Venerologie, Phlebologie, Allergologie, Karlsruhe.
HNO
|October 1, 1996
Summary
The Q-switched ruby laser effectively treats benign pigmented growths and tattoos by selectively damaging skin pigments. This laser therapy shows promise as a preferred treatment for traumatic tattoos, achieving complete resolution without scarring.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Laser Medicine
- Aesthetic Surgery
Background:
- Q-switched lasers offer targeted treatment for pigmented lesions.
- Selective photothermolysis enables precise targeting of melanin.
- Ruby lasers (694 nm) are effective for specific chromophores.
Observation:
- The Q-switched ruby laser (694 nm; 25/40 ns pulses) selectively damages natural and artificial skin pigments.
- Treatable conditions include benign pigmented growths (lentigo, ephelides, café-au-lait spots, Becker's nevi) and tattoos.
- Excellent results were observed in treating amateur, professional, and traumatic tattoos.
Findings:
- Two patients with traumatic tattoos experienced complete resolution without scarring after Q-switched ruby laser therapy.
- The laser treatment demonstrated high efficacy in tattoo removal.
- No adverse effects such as scarring were reported.
Implications:
- Q-switched ruby laser treatment may be the optimal choice for traumatic tattoo removal.
- This therapy offers a safe and effective alternative for various pigmented lesions.
- Further research can explore long-term outcomes and broader applications.