Systems and methods for tattoo removal using an applied electric field
AssigneeClear Intradermal Technologies, Inc.
InventorsJames W. Winkelman, Martin E. Schmieg
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Abstract
Methods and systems are disclosed for tattoo removal from a subject by exposing tattoo ink particles trapped within the dermis to electrical energy. The tattoo removal method and system can be used to remove the tattoo from the skin of the subject being treated. In addition, the method and system described allows for the extraction of the tattoo ink particles, which may have toxic properties, from the subject's body.
Claims19
A method of removing a tattoo comprising ink particles from a subject's skin comprising the steps of:
- inserting at least one needle-shaped, active electrode into the subject's skin to access a target tattoo region within a dermal region of the skin;
- and
- applying electrical energy via the active electrode to the target tattoo region without raising a temperature of the target region more than 4 degrees C., and at a fluence and duration sufficient to degrade and/or dislodge the tattoo ink particles but insufficient to create a cold plasma at the target tattoo region, and
- wherein the active electrode delivers between about 0.1 and 10 microamperes of electrical energy to the target tattoo region.
A system for removing a tattoo comprising ink particles from a subject's skin, the system comprising:
- an electrical energy source configured to apply electrical energy having a current at about 0.1 and 10 microamperes to a target tattoo region;
- and
- an active electrode, configured for insertion into the target tattoo region of a subject's skin to deliver electrical energy in an amount sufficient to degrade and/or dislodge the tattoo ink particles but in an amount insufficient to raise a target temperature of the target tattoo region more than 4 degrees C. or to create a cold plasma at the target tattoo region.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.