The principle of selective thermolysis can be applied towards the
removal of tattoos. The energy delivered by a number of different lasers is targeted
towards the carbon particles or dyes that are found in skin tattoos, allowing
selective destruction of the foreign pigment while minimizing damage to the
surrounding skin.
Lasers may be used on professional, amateur, cosmetic,
medicinal, and traumatic tattoos. The different colors present in the tattoos may
respond differently to laser tattoo removal. Lasers offer a non-invasive and
effective treatment for unwanted tattoos.