Page 36 - An Introduction to Laser Tattoo Removal

Chapter 2 – Fundamentals of Laser Tattoo Removal v1.0
Epidermis
Vacuoles in the dermis following treatment by laser
Ink particles around the vacuoles
Figure 13 – Histological Section of a tattoo – note vacuoles (x100, H&E stain)
Ink particles absorb laser energy which results in their surfaces becoming very hot. Some of this heat will cause local tissue water to boil and form steam bubbles (see figure 13). We see this as ‘frosting’. However, these bubbles are soon flooded with tissue water, typically within minutes.
Mike’s most recent research appears to indicate that these steam bubbles are much more important than previously thought...
Summary
There is a huge variety of tattoos across the world comprised of various materials, injected by different methods and with a wide range of longevities.
Consequently, no two tattoos are the same! Each must be considered on its own merits before treating with lasers. It is virtually impossible to predict how any tattoo will respond to laser treatment. We can never know which colours are truly in a tattoo, simply because artists mix so many.
In short, always be careful what you say to prospective patients – they will only hear what they want to hear, so you must be very particular about what you say!
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Chapter 2 LEVEL A Laser Tattoo Removal
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