During tattoo removal (e.g., using a laser), macrophages and lymphocytes play a central role in removing pigment particles from the skin. The process is explained here in a technically accurate and understandable way.
Tattoo pigments are predominantly located intracellularly (inside the cell) in macrophages and extracellularly (outside the cell) in the dermis. They are too large to be removed spontaneously, which is why a tattoo remains permanently visible.
The use of Q-switched or picosecond lasers causes the pigment particles to be broken down through photothermal and photoacoustic effects. The pigments stored in macrophages are broken down into smaller fragments, while pigment-containing cells are damaged or die. This releases the pigments from their bonds in the tissue and makes them biologically mobilizable, so that they can then be removed from the body via the lymphatic and immune systems.
Macrophages recognize the pigment fragments created by the laser treatment as foreign material and absorb them through phagocytosis. This creates pigment-laden macrophages, which store the color particles inside their cells. These cells then migrate to deeper layers of the dermis or enter the lymph capillaries. The pigments are transported via the lymphatic system and deposited or processed in the regional lymph nodes. This process is slow and can take several weeks to months.
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Lymphocytes, especially T lymphocytes, are not directly involved in the transport of pigment particles, but they play an important supporting role. They regulate the immune response by controlling inflammatory processes and releasing cytokines as messenger substances that influence the activity of macrophages. In addition, they contribute to tissue control, support wound healing, and help limit excessive inflammatory reactions. In this way, they influence scar formation and regeneration and create an overall immunological environment that enables macrophages to perform their task effectively.
Only a portion of the pigments can be fragmented per treatment session, as the absorption capacity of the macrophages is biologically limited and lymphatic removal is slow. Any remaining or newly released pigment residues are reabsorbed by newly formed macrophages during the course of treatment. For this reason, sufficiently long treatment intervals are necessary between individual sessions, which are usually at least 6–8 weeks and are often extended to 8–12 weeks.
The breakdown and removal of pigments is influenced by several factors. These include, in particular, blood circulation and lymph flow, as well as individual metabolism. Smoking can also slow down the process, as it impairs microcirculation and immune function. In addition, the condition of the immune system plays an important role. The color and depth of the pigments introduced also influence the speed of removal. Finally, the area of the body being treated is also crucial, as areas with lower blood circulation, such as the ankles, react significantly slower than well-circulated areas such as the back.
The removal of tattoo pigments is a complex biological process involving macrophages and lymphocytes in particular. At BellaDerma, we take these immunological factors into account in order to plan your laser tattoo removal safely, effectively, and individually.
We are happy to answer your questions in a personal, no-obligation consultation. Our customer service team will provide you with detailed information about the treatment process, session intervals, and individual influencing factors.
BellaDerma Customer Service Berlin
Phone: 030 / 88 92 92 20
Mon–Fri: 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
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