The process of laser tattoo fading can be painstaking. Research has therefore also focused on the use of adjuvants, or chemicals that can make the process go faster and more effective. One of these that has gotten a lot of attention is topical imiquimod cream. Imiquimod’s mechanism of action is not fully known, but it is throught to stimulate the immune system, by causing the production of molecules such as interferon alpha. Thus, it was thought, applying imiquimod to the skin over a tattoo that is getting removed by laser might speed up the rate of clearance.

A recent animal study from March, 2007 in Dermatologic Surgery held promise. Imiquimod used in pigs getting laser tattoo removal showed improved ink removal compared to laser alone. However there was significantly more scarring noted in the imiquimod sites. A more recent human study from September, 2007 in Dermatologic Surgery was less encouraging. This study in 20 patients found no difference between imiquimod and placebo in the rate of tattoo removal by laser.

At this time, there is no known adjuvant or chemical that will speed the process of laser tattoo removal. However, future research is bound to find alternatives to imiquimod that will be safer and more effective.