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

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.