The Effect of the Alexandrite Laser for The Removal of Tattoos

Kang, Ho Jung; Park, Hae Jin; Hahm, Jeong Hee

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Until the recent development of the Q-switched lasers, it was impossible to remove tattoos without causing scarring and sometimes disfiguring. Variations in wavelengths and pulse widths may result in different clinical effects or risks.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of the alexandrite laser in removing tattoos clinically, histologically and ultrastructually.
METHODS
Fourty-two patients with gray, black, and blue-black colored tattoos were treated with fluences ranging from 6.5 to 8.0 J/cm2 at a minimal interval of 6 weeks. We took pictures of each tattoo prior to treatment and each treatment session in order to evaluate clinical irnprovement. Biopsy specimens were obtained from 8 patients, on prearranged times: before, immediately after, one week after and 6 weeks after irradiation.
RESULTS
The results if the treatment of 42 patients with tattoos were analyzed. After two treatment sessions, 89% of patients showed 51% to 95% improvement. Transient hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation occurred in 7 patients. However, skin atrophy, hypertrophic scar or infection did not occur. Ir a biopsy specimen taken 6 weeks after irradiation on light microscopy, most of tattoo granules disappeared without collagen fiber change. However, macrophage engulfing tattoo granules and a minute amount of tattoo granules still remained in the dermis on electron microscopy.
CONCLUSION
The .alexandrite laser is considered to be a safe and effective treatment rnodality for removal of gray, black, and blue-black tattoo pigments.