We compared the effectiveness of Q-switched Nd:YAG and alexandrite lasers in the treatment of 31 patients with monochromatic black amateur tattoos. The effects of different fluences and varying energy deposition patterns were also investigated. Improvement was determined by clinical scoring. In all patient groups superior results were obtained with the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. Adverse side-effects other than transient textural changes were not noted. Our observation showed that the homogeneity of energy deposition rather than high fluence is crucial for successful treatment of monochromatic amateur tattoos.