Is Laser Tattoo Removal Possible for Dark Skin?

I am a very dark-skinned black woman interested in laser tattoo removal. From what I've read it seems questionable as to whether or not I am a candidate because of how dark my complexion is.

I don't develop keloids, have a few small (<1/2") hypertrophic scars that have smoothed over the years, and have never scarred from a burn. I have two tattoos that I am interested in removing (pictured is the larger of the two; approx. 4 x 4" on my right upper back).

Can anyone weigh in as to whether or not laser removal is possible, how many sessions would be required and expense?

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by Penzi in Flushing, NY

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Laser Tattoo Removal for Dark Skin Types

Laser tattoo removal for dark skin types requires a Q-switched 1064nm Nd:Yag laser, which is the safest laser for tattoo removal in patients with darker skin types. Other tattoo removal lasers (such as a 532nm and 755nm laser) can target the melanin (pigmented cells) of the skin, which can result in scarring and pigment changes on the skin. The Q-switched 1064nm Nd:Yag laser does not have the same risk of scarring as other lasers used for tattoo removal, though it is important to... more

Safe laser tattoo removal in dark skin

Laser tattoo removal is definitely safe and effective on darker skin types, as long as the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is used. The safest tattoo color to treat is black (as depicted in your photo). The Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is safe because the wavelength of this laser (1064 nanometers) is longer than that of the Q-switched Ruby (694 nm) and Alexandrite (755 nm) lasers. The longer wavelength of the Nd:YAG laser has relatively little effect on melanin pigment within the epidermis. The other... more