Tattoo removal: tannic acid method of Variot.
BACKGROUND
There are many methods for tattoo removal (e.g., surgery, cryosurgery, laser, dermabrasion), but none can restore the skin to its original state.


METHODS
Tattoo removal was obtained with a combination of tattoo machine, tannic acid, and silver nitrate.


RESULTS
This technique proved to be effective for the removal of amateur tattoos of any size. The results with professional tattoos were much less satisfactory. The estimation of the depth of pigment in pretreatment biopsies showed no correlation with the success rate of treatment. No indication of systemic side effects on the liver from tannic acid was found in the concentration and amount used in this study.


CONCLUSIONS
This technique is effective for the removal of amateur tattoos of any size and is comparable with cryotherapy, infrared coagulation, and focal salabrasion.
van der Velden
E M
EM
Department of Dermatovenereology, University Hospital Rotterdam, Dijkzigt, The Netherlands.
van der Walle
H B
HB
Groote
A D
AD
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology; D013653:Tattooing / Q000379:methods