Society

Simple decoration or symbolic reference, what meaning do you want your tattoo to have, and above all, what advice should you get before taking the plunge?

Trend of the moment or deep-seated desire? It's essential to understand and consider your reasons for wanting to design your skin. It's best to study the design, its size, shape and color, before embarking on the adventure. The choice of an experienced, licensed tattoo artist is as important as anything else. The way he or she proceeds will reflect his or her professionalism: impeccable hygiene, disposable gloves, sterile needles, documents containing all the useful information needed such as side-effects, contraindications and anything to do with the ink used, which may guide a doctor in the event of infection.

In addition to the shape of the tattoo, the choice of a specific area isn't without its own consequences. Some parts of the body are more sensitive than others. The arm remains the least painful spot, an option more common among men. Women, on the other hand, attach greater importance to elegance and opt for discreet areas such as the ankle, wrist, ribs... Areas where the skin is thinner and cartilage is more present remain very sensitive to the needle. So be careful with all these crucial choices before taking the tattoo plunge.

The risks of permanent tattooing

Tattooing involves introducing pigment under the skin with a needle. Once the skin is pierced, there's a risk of infection. The danger is all the greater if hygiene standards aren't respected and post-tattoo care is disregarded.

In addition to the issue of cleanliness, there's also a lack of clarity surrounding what kind of ink is used, with at times no information on the label about the quality of the product. Designed for other applications, notably rubber and paint, the pigments contained in the ink aren't specifically designed for tattooing the skin. This coloration can lead to skin allergies and other more serious complications.

Studies carried out in Germany have shown that 30-50% of tattooed people suffer mild side-effects (itching, sun hypersensitivity), and in 5% of cases, more serious symptoms appear. European recommendations on ink hygiene and safety are applicable, but not very restrictive. The quality of the ink, the reliability of the manufacturers and good hygiene are essential in preventing tattoo-related risks.

Necessary care

After the long-awaited stage of having a tattoo done, make sure you protect your tattoo from UV rays and other sources of heat. To avoid the risk of infection, avoid baths, saunas and swimming pools for the first few weeks. For at least three months, don't expose the pigmented part of your skin to the sun, as this will fade the colors. To care for your new design, apply healing cream and mild soap daily. Today, there's a whole range of products specially designed for tattoos. You'll be spoilt for choice!

Whether tribal or old-school, the tattoo craze is here to stay. This art form, which has always inspired and left its mark, must comply with essential safety rules. 

(MH with AsD - EVG / Illustration: Unsplash)