Paradoxical darkening and removal of pink tattoo ink.

Abstract

It is widely accepted that Q-switched lasers are the gold-standard treatment for the resolution of unwanted tattoo ink. Although much safer than other tattoo removal modalities, the treatment of tattoo ink with Q-switched devices may be associated with long-term adverse effects including undesired pigmentary alterations such as tattoo ink darkening. Darkening of tattoo ink is most often reported in cosmetic, flesh-toned, white, peach, and pink tattoos. In this paper, we briefly review a case of pink tattoo ink that initially darkened paradoxically but eventually resolved with continued Q-switched laser treatments.

• Authors: William Kirby, Ravneet Ruby Kaur, Alpesh Desai
• Journal: Journal of cosmetic dermatology (J Cosmet Dermatol) Vol. 9 Issue 2 Pg. 149-51 (Jun 2010) ISSN: 1473-2165 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 20618561 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Letter)

Topics

• Adult
• Color
• Female
• Humans
• Ink
• Laser Therapy (adverse effects)
• Tattooing