References
An insight into laser tattoo removal: reasoning, methods and limitations
Abstract
This article aims to review the possible reasons a patient may wish to remove their tattoo using lasers, as well as providing an overview of the tattooing process within the skin, where the tattoo ink particles lay within the skin's structures and how lasers specifically target unwanted ink particles within the skin. An exploration into various tattoo removal methods, with a more in-depth focus on laser tattoo removal with its associated risks and limitations will also be addressed.
Europe has seen a resurgence in the popularity of tattooing. Recent estimates show that approximately 10–20% of the general population in Europe are tattooed (De Cuyper and Pérez-Cotapos, 2018). Tattoo removal attempts date back to ancient Egypt, with numerous techniques having been used to remove unwanted tattoos, many of which cause damage to surrounding skin structures, often resulting in scarring and incomplete removal of the tattoo itself (Armstrong et al, 2008). Presently, effective removal can be achieved using lasers. Multiple laser treatments may be necessary, depending on the size of the tattoo, depth of ink placement and the colour of the inks used. Some tattoos cannot be entirely removed with lasers.
The laser selectively heats up and fragments the tattoo particles and the smaller pieces are then removed by normal bodily processes (Tay and Chan, 2011).
Box 1 gives definitions for some commonly used terms in laser tattoo removal.
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