Asphalt pigment resulted in a tattoo (by default) from broken nose. What options do I have to have it removed? (Photo)

Hi Elisabeth. Sorry to hear about your situation.  Your condition does not require a combination of treatments.  Very simply, you have a traumatic tattoo caused when the asphalt gets trapped in the skin.  We have had excellent results in removing the pigment with q-switched lasers in 1 or 2 treatments.  See the photos at the link below. 

Thank you for the question. Scars such as this make take several treatments and modalities. I recommend seeing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for a complete treatment plan that fits with your life. As always, sunscreen is essential for these scars. Best of luck on your journey!

This scar can be improved with a combination of Cosmelan, lasers, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

“Road Rash” results when pigment is deposited in the skin by abrasion, as seen in bike, car or motorcycle accident or by explosive forces. The asphalt materials become lodged in the dermis after re-epithelialization of the wound and result in blue or black tattoos, depending on their depth.  The current gold standard of tattoo removal modality is considered to be laser tattoo removal with either 1st generation (Q-Switched) or 2nd generation (Pico) laser technology. If tattoo is new, you'll want to wait until it's completely healed (around 2-3 months) before laser treatment. Price depends on size of the tattoo and the number of treatment is depending on various factors (cover up vs complete removal, laser technology, ink saturation, colors, overall health, skin type, tattoo location, etc..).  PICO is costlier; but more effective and less painful.  We recommend seeking laser tattoo removal treatment from a reputable professional healthcare provider in your area who is specialized in tattoos removal with both Nano/Pico technology.