Therapeutic Use of Tattoos:
Some individuals use pain as therapy for mental illnesses, including tattooing their scars to help ease symptoms.
Non Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI):
Research shows that adolescents who intentionally tattoo themselves to feel pain have a distinct phenotype of NSSI. This group injures more frequently and in more anatomical locations while experiencing more negative thoughts and emotions.
Potential Toxic and Immunological Reactions:
Tattoo ink penetrates the skin as nanoparticles and may cause toxic or immunological responses. These reactions, including allergies, inflammation, and life-threatening responses, can appear immediately or years later.
Potential Carcinogenic Materials:
Tattoo ink may contain metals and carcinogenic materials, such as chromium, copper, arsenic, nickel, cobalt, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and azo pigments. Studies have shown that in 83% of black tattoo ink, PAHs can cause cancer.
Potential Skin Changes:
Tattoo ink containing toxic chemicals and carcinogens may contribute to changes in skin pigmentation, which could indicate early melanoma or other cancers. Preexisting moles or birthmarks should not be covered as they could be the first indicator of cancerous changes.
Risks of Infection:
Without sterilized equipment, Tattoos could spread blood-borne diseases like Hepatitis B
