Red tattoo reactions: treatment with the carbon dioxide laser.

Cutaneous reactions to red tattoo pigment occurred in two patients who developed erythema, swelling, and severe pruritus in the area of red coloration within their tattoos. Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser vaporization of the red portions of the tattoos led to complete resolution of symptoms with an excellent cosmetic result and preservation of the tattoo design. A step-by-step guide to the use of the CO2 laser for this treatment is described.