New Tattoo Removal Cream, Could It Really Work?

Question

According to an article released by the Huffington Post a researcher by the name of Alec Falkenam has created a topical tattoo removal cream claiming it is effective in fading and possibly removing tattoos, as it clings to macrophages that absorb foreign particles, or the ink. My question, is it possible for any cream to penetrate the skin deep enough to remove tattoos?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

The cream is still investigational and will not be approved this year (2015) in the US. Laser tattoo removal remains a viable first option. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There are no creams that work or will ever (in my opinion) work without damaging the top of the skin.  There is a new device now, called the Micropen TR to which I am one of the first in the US and doing trials on it now, that removes tattoos quickly without laser.  It is good in combination with lasers, for tattoos that stopped responding to lasers, and in darker skin types or those with colors that are difficult to remove with lasers.  I suggest seeing a tattoo removal expert.  Best, Dr. Emer.

David S. Rosenberg, MD · Answer

The science behind this research looks promising but it will be a long while before this product will be available for sale. It's a good topic to keep up with though.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

This has been touted for years.  I hope the cream works but I do doubt it.  You are right, getting deep into the skin is difficult without breaking the skin barrier.  There are some chemicals like DMSO that can penetrate deeper, but they can also have systemic effects which might not be so good.

New Tattoo Removal Cream, Could It Really Work?

Answers (4)

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