Self removal of unwanted tattoos

Abstract

Tattooing has been around since early civilisation, with origins that can be traced back to Otzi the ice man dating from the fourth to fifth millennium bc (Renaut, 2004). Various methods of tattoo removal are described in the literature ranging from salabrasion as described by Aetius, a Greek physician, in 543ad (Scutt, 1972) to laser treatment in the late 20th century (Goldman et al, 1967).

Decorative tattoos and reasons for their removal: a prospective study in 151 adults living in South of France

“…However, amateur tattoos, designed and made by the subject himself, or a friend, using needles or other sharp implements, pigment reservoirs and home‐made dyes are also common. Regardless of the origin of the tattoo, over time some people regret their tattoos and decide to have them removed 7–10 . Unsurprisingly, with the evolution of tattooing, the techniques for removing tattoos have progressed in parallel 7,8 .…”

“…Regardless of the origin of the tattoo, over time some people regret their tattoos and decide to have them removed. [7][8][9][10] Unsurprisingly, with the evolution of tattooing, the techniques for removing tattoos have progressed in parallel. 7,8 Many techniques have been tried for the destruction of skin layers including surgical excision, liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, dermabrasion, salabrasion, caustics or infrared coagulation.…”

Iatrogenic deep dermal wound due to chemical do-it-yourself tattoo removal

“…Tattoo removal procedures are expensive and are not usually covered by health services. [ 2 ] Laser tattoo removal often requires long and repetitive visits to clinics. When patients seek cheaper and faster ways for tattoo removal, they search websites that often belong to over-the-counter devices and products or sometimes patient forum websites.…”