Tattoo removal with minimal scarring: the chemo-laser technique.

A method useful in the removal of decorative tattoos too large for simple excision, or tattoos located in anatomic areas prone to hypertrophic scarring, is described. The method employs the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser for partial ablation of the tattooed area, followed by the repeated application of a urea mixture to complete the removal of the dyes. (These applications continue until the wound is totally healed.) Results indicate that even in areas that typically develop hypertrophic scarring, such as the upper chest, breast, and upper arm, this technique can effectively remove over 95% of the pigment and leave a perfectly flat scar.