Will cosmetic ink tattoos containing iron/titanium dioxide turn a weird color when laser removed?

Question

Hi Doctors. I'm of asian background and have permanent makeup tattooed in medium brown. I know the brand used contains iron and/or titanium dioxides. What is the likelihood of the ink turning a weird colour (red, orange, yellow, jet black) if lasered with Picoway or Fotona Q4 Max? I'm asian and I'm scared it will be florescent or very unnatural looking on the face. If the ink oxidises, does that mean it can never be removed with laser (e.g. if it goes black). The spot is too small for testing

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for reaching out with your concerns about laser tattoo removal. It’s important to be well-informed about the potential outcomes before proceeding with treatment. Here’s some information that might help:

Color Change Risks: When removing tattoos that contain iron or titanium dioxide, there is indeed a risk of color change. These pigments can sometimes oxidize when exposed to laser energy, potentially turning darker (such as jet black) or even changing to other hues like red, orange, or yellow.

Laser Types and Effects: The Picoway and Fotona Q4 Max lasers are commonly used for tattoo removal, and each has specific wavelengths that target different colors. However, the presence of metal oxides in the ink can complicate the removal process and increase the risk of unexpected color changes.

Managing Oxidation: If the ink oxidizes and turns a darker color, it doesn’t necessarily mean it can never be removed, but it may require additional treatments and a different approach. Some practitioners use a combination of laser types and sessions to address these changes gradually.

Consultation and Testing: Although the spot is too small for a typical test, consider consulting with a highly experienced laser specialist who has dealt with similar cases. They can provide insight into their approach and success rates with similar inks and skin types.

Alternative Options: If the risk of color change is a significant concern, you might explore alternative removal methods or corrective treatments that do not involve lasers, such as saline removal or specific chemical treatments, although these also have their own risks and limitations.

It’s crucial to have an in-depth consultation with a qualified and experienced laser specialist to discuss these risks and potential outcomes. They can guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your aesthetic goals.

Will cosmetic ink tattoos containing iron/titanium dioxide turn a weird color when laser removed?

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