title: The use of Q-switched alexandrite laser (755 nm, 100 ns) for eyeliner tattoo removal.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Eyelid tattooing for cosmetic reasons has increased in the past few years, and unsatisfied customers may request pigment removal. Q-switched laser systems have been useful in these cases.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the clinical result of a patient with a bluish-black eyelid tattoo treated with Q-switched alexandrite laser.
  
  
  METHODS
  Threshold fluence was determined and a spot test made on the first visit. Treatment was with QSAL, with a fluence range of 6.75-7.50 J/cm2 (mean fluence 7.125 +/- 0.26) and overlapping +/- 10% at 4-week intervals.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The eyeliner tattoo was not completely removed after five treatments with QSAL, but noticeable pigment lightening was obtained. No side effects were seen.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Q-switched alexandrite laser may be a useful device to remove the bluish-black pigment used in cosmetic eyeliner tattoo.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, General Hospital of Catalonia, 08190 Sant Cugat del Vallés, Spain. gmoreno@medicina.ub.es
authors.forename: G A
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Moreno-Arias
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Camps-Fresneda
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001608:Beryllium; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques; D005143:Eyelids; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D013653:Tattooing
chemical_list: C112654:alexandrite; D001608:Beryllium