Tattoo removal: tannic acid method of Variot.

ABSTRACT

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.