[On the treatment of tattoos by argon laser (author's transl)].

Different laser systems have different effects on the human skin. During the treatment of tattoos the CO2 laser abrades thermically the skin in layers of 0,1-0,2 mm. The argon laser, however, is semiselectively absorbed by the dermal pigments which are vaporized and expelled through the rupturing epidermis. Remaining pigments are eliminated by the subsequent inflammatory reaction. The argon laser offers a feasible alternative to common methods with several useful advantages.