Dermatologists provide free tattoo removal to sex trafficking survivors

11 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Apr 23

Survivors like Melody Montemayor and Kathy Givens have received free tattoo removal from dermatologists, erasing branding tattoos linked to their exploitation.
These services, offered by specialists such as Dr. Shadi Kourosh at Harvard Medical School, help survivors reclaim dignity and support emotional recovery after years of trauma.
A 2022 study found about half of sex trafficking survivors have branding tattoos, prompting dermatologists to share insights with other doctors to better identify and assist trafficked patients.

Beyond removing the ink, what truly erases the psychological brand of ownership left on trafficking survivors?

Could focusing on tattoo removal overshadow survivors' critical needs for long-term housing and mental health support?

How can doctors identify the 90% of trafficking victims they see who never disclose their abuse?

How effective are new laws in training tattoo artists to actually identify and help trafficking victims?

With trafficking a $99 billion industry, how can pro bono services begin to match the scale of the problem?

Are anti-trafficking task forces prepared for the expected surge in exploitation during the 2026 World Cup?