Non‐laser treatment for tattoo removal

Abstract

Tattoos are increasingly gathering attention in the young population, especially in second to fourth decade of life. With such trends, rate of its removal also has been on the rise. Treatment options for tattoo removal besides lasers are surgery, radiofrequency, infrared light, cryotherapy, dermabrasion and salabrasion. Unfortunately, none of these procedures are associated with satisfactory cosmetic results due to adverse effects such as scarring and dyspigmentation. Although laser treatment has become the gold standard for tattoo removal, it is also associated with some limitations. Some tattoo inks are resistant to laser, and multiple sessions and multiple wavelengths may be required for its complete removal. Considering these limitations, other treatment modalities for tattoo removal must be explored. This article highlights the non‐laser treatment options for tattoo removal. We reviewed all published literature identified from electronic databases (MEDLINE and PubMed) till August 2021 to highlight the non‐laser treatment options for tattoo removal.

Successful Removal of 17 Tattoos Self-Administered Using Black Eyeliner Ink with Quality-Switched Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet 1,064-nm Laser: A Case Report

“…While the desire for tattoo removal in this vulnerable young population is understandable and often supportive, the high cost associated with laser tattoo removal makes it inaccessible for many. Alternative treatment options, such as surgery, dermabrasion, salabrasion, chemical tattoo removal, infrared coagulation, cryotherapy, and radiotherapy, often result in significant side effects, including scarring [ 22 ]. It is in the interest of society to assist young people in leaving behind their impulsive and unstable phases of life or group affiliations and help them find employment and integrate into society.…”

Medical and Societal Implications of Tattoos: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Risks and Removal Challenges

“…Dermabrasion utilizes a high-speed rotary device to abrade the superficial layers of the skin, thereby eliminating the tattoo (Dash et al, 2022).…”

Assessing the efficacy of a 100 ps Nd:YAG laser for tattoo removal in a minipig model

“…Traditional methods of tattoo removal, including excision, dermabrasion, and chemical treatments, often yielded unsatisfactory results [7], characterized by scarring, infection, incomplete removal, change in pigmentation, skin irritation, pain, and more [8]. The advent of laser technology in the late 20th century represented a significant breakthrough.…”