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Fig. 1: Scientists from the Federal German Institute for Risk Assessment and Consumer Safety have analysed healthy risks by tattoo removal using laser radiation. (Gerstel/Fotolia - Africa Studio [M]_Scheer)
Pyrolysis GC/MS

Tattoo Ink: A Closer Look

Tattoo removal using laser radiation can carry health risks depending on the breakdown products formed. Scientists have now shown that pyrolysis GC/MS can be used to simulate the breakdown process and determine the compounds formed from a given ink during laser treatment. Phthalocyanine blue (B15:3), for example, was shown to form a cell poison in the process.

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