Tattooing of skin results in transportation and light-induced decomposition of tattoo pigments – a first quantification in vivo using a mouse model

Tattoo inks in general usage contain nanoparticles

BACKGROUND

To our knowledge tattooing has never been thought of as a method of introducing nanoparticles (NPs) into the human body by the intradermal route, and as such it has never been a topic of research in nanotoxicology. The content of NPs in tattoo inks is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To classify the particle sizes in tattoo inks in general usage.

METHODS

The particle size was measured by laser diffraction, electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction.

RESULTS

The size of the pigments could be divided into three main classes. The black pigments were the smallest, the white pigments the largest and the coloured pigments had a size in between the two. The vast majority of the tested tattoo inks contained significant amounts of NPs except for the white pigments. The black pigments were almost pure NPs, i.e. particles with at least one dimension <100 nm.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding of NPs in tattoo inks in general usage is new and may contribute to the understanding of tattoo ink kinetics. How the body responds to NP tattoo pigments should be examined further.

Laser tattoo removal: a review

BACKGROUND

Tattoos have played an important role in human culture for thousands of years, and they remain popular today. The development of quality-switched (QS) lasers has revolutionized the removal of unwanted tattoos.

OBJECTIVES

To thoroughly review the literature on laser tattoo removal pertaining to its history, its theoretical basis, the various devices used, potential adverse effects, and future developments.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An extensive literature review of publications related to tattoo removal was conducted.

RESULTS

Reports exist demonstrating the efficacy of laser removal of different tattoo types, including professional, amateur, traumatic, cosmetic, and medical. The literature supports the use of different QS lasers for removal of tattoos. Some colors have a more-complete response using particular wavelengths.

CONCLUSION

QS lasers can effectively and safely remove different types of unwanted tattoos.