Successful elimination of traumatic tattoos by the Q-switched alexandrite (755-nm) laser.

Traumatic tattoos are very difficult to eradicate because of the resultant deep penetration of foreign body particles. Previous treatments, such as surgical excision and dermabrasion, commonly resulted in incomplete removal or significant scarring or both. Three patients with traumatic tattoos were treated with the Q-switched alexandrite laser (755 nm), with complete lesional resolution observed after one to four treatments. No adverse sequelae, such as scarring or pigmentary alteration, were noted in the laser-irradiated skin.