Combining fractional resurfacing and Q-switched ruby laser for tattoo removal.

The prevalence of decorative tattoos has grown significantly in recent years, and the demand for tattoo removal has also increased dramatically. The advent of the Q-switched laser (QSL) enabled the safe removal of tattoo pigment with minimal damage to surrounding skin structures. This method relies upon targeted destruction of pigment particles through selective photothermolysis. Matching of the appropriate wavelength of QSL to a given tattoo color results in maximal pigment clearance and minimal collateral damage to normal tissue; nonetheless, multiple treatments are always necessary, and blistering and treatment-induced hypopigmentation may occur.