Cosmetic Eyebrow Tattoo Removal Using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser: A Case Report

February 2026 in “ Cureus ”

Luis L Velázquez Arenas, Sarahi Garay Enriquez, Daniela Gómez Guerra

Q-switched ruby laser minoxidil tretinoin phytantriol vitamin E erythema edema Rogaine Retin-A

TLDR The Q-switched ruby laser effectively lightened eyebrow tattoos but may reduce eyebrow hair density.

This case report discusses the use of a Q-switched 694 nm ruby laser for the removal of a bilateral cosmetic eyebrow tattoo in a 38-year-old woman, which had previously been resistant to seven other laser treatments. Over five sessions, the treatment led to progressive lightening of the tattoo pigment. However, the patient experienced transient erythema, edema, and a reduction in eyebrow hair density. The hair density issue was managed with a topical therapy containing 5% minoxidil, tretinoin, phytantriol, and vitamin E. The report underscores the effectiveness of the QS ruby laser for tattoo removal while highlighting the potential adverse effect of reduced eyebrow hair density, which should be considered during patient counseling.

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