Tattoos have long become a part of human civilization. However, as the number of people who get tattoos increases, so is the number of people who wish to have their tattoos removed. Compared to other methods, laser‐based devices are associated with the best efficacy and least side effects in tattoo removal. Lack of understanding of the fundamental principles of laser and managing its parameters may result in suboptimal result and increased risk of side effects. Recognizing and mastering multiple factors including skin types, nature and color of tattoos, and proper selection of laser parameters such as wavelength, fluence, and pulse, are central in achieving an optimal tattoo removal outcome. This review provides a comprehensive overview on the fundamental principle of laser and practical approaches in tattoo removal.

To compare the effectiveness of tranexamic acid (TA) combination serum with hydroquinone, the gold standard in whitening agents for healthy populations. This was a three‐arm randomized controlled trial. The subjects were divided into three groups: the first group received 3% TA combination serum (3% TA, 4% galactomyces ferment filtrate, 2% niacinamide, and 4% alpha arbutin), the second group received 2% TA combination serum, and the third group received 4% hydroquinone. One milliliter of each serum was applied on three holes: Hole A, which was located 4 cm from the left cubital fossa, Hole B, which was located 4 cm from the first hole, and Hole C, which was located 4 cm from the right cubital fossa. The skin brightness and pigmentation intensity were evaluated each week for 4 weeks using a chromameter. A total of 44 subjects were recruited for this study. All groups showed a significant improvement in skin brightness and pigmentation intensity after 4 weeks (p < .001). There were no differences between the treatment groups and hydroquinone (p > .05). TA serum (2 and 3%) combined with 4% galactomyces ferment filtrate, niacinamide, and alpha arbutin is an effective depigmenting agent.

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BACKGROUND: Chancroid is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the Gram-negative bacteria, Haemophilus ducreyi. In endemic areas, the ratio of men to women is 3:1. Clinical symptoms of chancroid manifest as genital ulcers which are generally painful and tender with irregular edges. The base of the ulcer can be covered with yellow or gray necrotic purulent exudate, and often bleeds when rubbed. Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina and can be accompanied with symptoms such as vaginal discharge, complaints of itching, and pain. The most common cause is an imbalance of bacteria or normal flora in the vagina. CASE REPORT: We report a case of chancroid in a 20-year-old woman in conjunction with vaginal candidiasis that was later identified as Candida glabrata. The patient was then treated with a combination of oral antibiotics and antifungals, as well as normal saline dressing that then showed significant clinical improvements. CONCLUSION: Chancroid is a sexually transmitted disease that is still prevalent especially in developing countries. Diagnosis of the disease is often made clinically and should be promptly treated to prevent further complications. Coexistence of chancroid with vaginal candidiasis is rare, and combination of antibiotics and antifungals, as well as normal saline dressing proved to be effective in treating the condition.

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