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Q-switched Nd:YAG laser removal of facial amateur tattoos in patients with Fitzpatrick type VI: case series
Introduction: Q-switched neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) lasers are reported to be gold standard for laser tattoo removal. In particular, the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm is widely recognized for the removal of blue/black amateur tattoos. However, treatment modalities in Fitzpatrick Type VI skin carry a greater risk of complications including alterations in pigmentation compared to fairer skin (Fitzpatrick Type I-IV skin). Therefore, the aim of this case series was to describe with the use of the Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser, the removal of carbon-based amateur tattoos on patients with Fitzpatrick Type VI skin as an effective and safe method.
Methods: Twenty- five patients with Fitzpatrick type VI skin, from Ethiopian origins, with facial tribal tattoos, were treated with the Q- Switched Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm. Digital images were taken upon every treatment and the clearance rates of the tattoo was evalu- ated by imaging software.
Results: We observed an average tattoo clearance rate of 95% among the 45 facial tattoos in 25 patients presented in the case series with minimal pigmentary and textual changes evident.
Discussion: These positive aesthetic results have a signi cant psychosocial impact on the lives of those with Fitzpatrick Type VI skin, in particular the Ethiopian Jewish population.
History
Publication title
Journal of Drugs in DermatologyVolume
15Issue
11Pagination
170-174ISSN
1545-9616Department/School
School of NursingPublisher
Journal Of Drugs In DermatologyPlace of publication
United StatesRights statement
Copyright © 2016 Journal Of Drugs In DermatologyRepository Status
- Restricted