A pilot randomized control trial of scar repigmentation with UV light and dry tattooing.
OBJECTIVE
This study assessed the utility of focused scar injury with an ink-free tattooing technique combined with UV light exposure for the treatment of hypopigmented cervicofacial scars.


METHODS
Pilot prospective, randomized, control trial.


METHODS
Individuals with long-standing hypopigmented cervicofacial scars.


METHODS
Twenty individuals randomly underwent UVA light exposure with or without dry tattooing. Scars were evaluated pretreatment and at seven-months post-treatment. Outcome measures included observer and patient subjective assessment of the scar, and objective evaluation of the erythema and melanin content of the scar and the surrounding skin.


RESULTS
The tattoo group demonstrated statistically significant improvement in the subjective evaluation of their scars. Scar melanin content reached equivalence with the surrounding skin. Observer and patient subjective global ratings support the use of dry tattooing.


CONCLUSIONS
Dry-tattooing followed by UV light exposure may provide a safe and effective means for the treatment of hypopigmented scars.
Brandt
Michael G
MG
Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
Moore
Corey C
CC
Conlin
Anne E
AE
Stein
John D
JD
Doyle
Philip C
PC
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017496:Hypopigmentation / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D013653:Tattooing / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014467:Ultraviolet Therapy