With almost 50% tattooed "millenials", tattoo removal is one of the fastest growing areas of dermatology and aesthetic medicine.

Laser tattoo removal is an attractive source of income for providers. Unfortunately, even after almost 4 decades, the treatment could not prove to be demonstrably safe and effective. The German Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) warned of carcinogenic fission products several times. In general, it has not yet been proven to what extent the particles transported away via the lymphatic system leave the body again. Long term hazards are currently being discussed. To date, we have not found a way to remove particles from the dermis in a safe and health-beneficial way. This is not just the cause of enormous psychological stress among patients, but also the reason why there is still no adequate treatment for tattoo allergies and similar reactions. Some new patents advertise irrigation and suction, but no extensive research has been done in this area.

What we need is focused, translational research into methods that ensure maximum particle extraction with minimum systemic absorption. The absorption of particles and liquids through the many fine capillaries in the skin has so far seemed unavoidable, but approaches that address this problem are required.

We are not willing to leave science related to our health to privately funded research and studies by individual start-ups.

The research should incorporate the latest scientific knowledge about the characteristics of tattoos, the dermis, regenerative medicine and the latest technical possibilities.

As long as there is not a single university or independent lab worldwide that is dedicated to the topic in all its complexity, we do not believe in the best possible state of medicine and technology with regard to this indication. We call for all the big universities, health departments, foundations, insurances as well as regulatory authorities worldwide to take on the topic.

It is about treatment, prevention, physical and mental health. It's about our future generations and their well being. Everyone deserves a second chance.