Best Clinical Practices in Laser Tattoo Removal

The ability to remove tattoo ink safely, efficiently and with minimal side effects has improved significantly in the past decade. With the introduction of quality switched (Q-switched or QS) lasers, older, unsafe techniques have all but fallen by the wayside. That said, many practitioners are still unclear as to the standards that should be used when implementing a tattoo removal protocol, even with access to proper equipment. This article briefly discusses older, now obsolete methods of tattoo removal and current modalities used to resolve ink, with a strong emphasis on the importance of incorporating the recommended best standards in hopes of improving patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes.