Laser treatment of tattoos in darkly pigmented patients: efficacy and side effects

J Am Acad Dermatol. 1996 Apr;34(4):653-6. doi: 10.1016/s0190-9622(96)80068-5.

Abstract

Background: Many modalities for the treatment of tattoos and pigmented lesions produce a greater risk of complications in Fitzpatrick types V and VI skin because of an increased incidence of adverse pigmentary changes and keloidal scarring. In fair-skinned persons Q-switched lasers have proved effective in removing pigmented lesions and tattoos without scarring.

Objective: This study was conducted to determine the efficacy and effects of Q-switched lasers on a small series of darkly pigmented patients with tattoos.

Methods: Four patients of Ethiopian origin with facial and neck tribal tattoos were treated with both the Q-switched ruby and Nd:YAG lasers. One black woman with a multicolored tattoo on the mid chest was treated with the Q-switched ruby laser.

Results: Clearing of all lesions was seen. The treatments did not result in scarring or permanent pigment changes other than the ones intended.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that in darkly pigmented patients, Q-switched laser treatment of tattoos can be performed successfully. The longer wavelength Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is recommended when removing tattoos in darker complected persons. A test treatment is advised before treatment of large skin areas.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aluminum Oxide
  • Aluminum Silicates
  • Black People*
  • Cicatrix / etiology
  • Ethiopia
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Keloid / etiology
  • Laser Therapy* / adverse effects
  • Lasers / adverse effects
  • Neodymium
  • Pigmentation Disorders / etiology
  • Pigmentation Disorders / radiotherapy
  • Pigmentation Disorders / surgery
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Pigmentation*
  • Tattooing*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Yttrium

Substances

  • Aluminum Silicates
  • Neodymium
  • Yttrium
  • Aluminum Oxide