Abstract
This paper discusses the history of tattoos. It discusses both the application and the removal of tattoos and discusses the different types of tattoos that exist. The paper then focuses on the history of tattoo removal and different types of removal that have been used in the past. It then discusses the quality-switched lasers in particular and looks at current practices.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Types of Tattoos
Tattoo Removal
The Quality-Switched Lasers
Conclusion

From the Paper
"The initial hindrance of the use of the laser technology was because of the intricacy of their make and their overall magnitude. And the initial designs were also leaving behind color pigments and scars. The excellence of the lasers lies in the fact that they remove the tattoos based on the color pigment used, however, the whole operation has to be done very carefully so that the end result does not leave the skin color darkened then usual. The individual using this technique should also know that there are going to be certain color pigments that will not respond to the laser treatment and hence will not be removed. The focus can be taken into the direction of the introduction and utilization of more secure inks that will have a compatibility with the laser technologies available currently (Adatto, 2004)."

Tags:laser, implantation, dermabrasion

Abstract
This paper presents the history of tattooing. The paper describes evidence of tattooing throughout many cultures across the world. The paper explains modern-day tattooing, which is used primarily to denote gang or other group affiliations or just for body decoration. Since both these reasons are subject to changing tastes and circumstances, there has developed a demand for a reliable way to remove tattoos. These methods are explored in the paper.

From the Paper
"The history of tattooing is a long and varied one. "A tattoo is a permanent mark or design made on the body when pigment is inserted into the dermal layer of the skin through ruptures in the skin's top layer." ("How Tattoo Removal Works," 2004). A more recent development in this area, however, is the issue of tattoo removal. Only recently have advances in technology made it possible to effectively remove a tattoo. The process of tattooing, which inserts ink deeply into the layers of the skin, has traditionally made it very difficult to get rid of a tattoo once it's been applied. Modern techniques for tattoo removal include; dermabrasion, salabrasion, excision (surgical removal) and laser removal. There are also less thorough methods for covering a tattoo such as scarification or tattoo modification. Currently, the most favored method of tattoo removal is laser removal, as it leaves little scarring and is very effective, although multiple laser treatments are often required."

Tags:body, painting, dermabrasion

Abstract
This essay defines tattoos as the coloring of the skin through making an indelible impression by puncturing the skin with a needle bearing color. The paper explores the origins of tattoos from the first evidence found in the remains of a five-thousand-year-old, preserved 'ice-man', through the Australian Aboriginals, the ancient Egyptians, and several Asian cultures. The paper shows how each culture adapted tattoos as symbols of cultural, societal, and ceremonial importance. It then shows how tattooing evolved in American culture and its position in today's world of defining one's unique personal identity.

From the Paper
"Egypt's nearest neighbors Libya also appears to have imbued the art of tattooing. In a slight departure from their Egyptian neighbors, both male and female mummies were discovered with tattoos. The male mummies were shown with scenes depicting the worship of the Sub God Ra. The mummies that were found in the tomb of Seti I (dating from about 1300 B.C.) were tattooed with pictures symbolizing a fierce goddess named Neith, who led warriors into battle."

Tags:dermabrasion, pragmatism, tattu