<P> Transient textural changes are occasionally noted but often resolve within a few months; however, permanent textural changes and scarring very rarely occur . If a patient is prone to pigmentary or textural changes, longer treatment intervals are recommended . Additionally, if a blister or crust forms following treatment, it is imperative that the patient does not manipulate this secondary skin change . Early removal of a blister of crust increases the chances of developing a scar . Additionally, patients with a history of hypertrophic or keloidal scarring need to be warned of their increased risk of scarring . </P> <P> Local allergic responses to many tattoo pigments have been reported, and allergic reactions to tattoo pigment after Q - switched laser treatment are also possible . Rarely, when yellow cadmium sulfide is used to "brighten" the red or yellow portion of a tattoo, a photoallergic reaction may occur . The reaction is also common with red ink, which may contain cinnabar (mercuric sulphide). Erythema, pruritus, and even inflamed nodules, verrucose papules, or granulomas may present . The reaction will be confined to the site of the red / yellow ink . Treatment consists of strict sunlight avoidance, sunscreen, interlesional steroid injections, or in some cases, surgical removal . Unlike the destructive modalities described, Q - switched lasers mobilize the ink and may generate a systemic allergic response . Oral antihistamines and anti-inflammatory steroids have been used to treat allergic reactions to tattoo ink . </P> <P> Studies of various tattoo pigments have shown that a number of pigments (most containing iron oxide or titanium dioxide) change color when irradiated with Q - switched laser energy . Some tattoo colors including flesh tones, light red, white, peach and light brown containing pigments as well as some green and blue tattoo pigments, changed to black when irradiated with Q - switched laser pulses . The resulting gray - black color may require more treatments to remove . If tattoo darkening does occur, after 8 weeks the newly darkened tattoo can be treated as if it were black pigment . </P> <P> Very rarely, non Q - switched laser treatments, like CO2 or Argon lasers, which are very rarely offered these days, can rupture blood vessels and aerosolize tissue requiring a plastic shield or a cone device to protect the laser operator from tissue and blood contact . Protective eyewear may be worn if the laser operator chooses to do so . </P>

Where do you go to get tattoos removed