Tattoo

Tattoo

Tattoo is a form of body art. It involves the creation of an artwork on the skin that would normally stay on. Tattoos can be created using single or black color tones as well as multicolor images. The different tattoos in vogue are tribal, Celtic, Japanese, Oriental, Animal artworks, Pin ups, fairies, Butterfly etc. The tattoos are applied by expert tattoo artists that use their own or customers artwork as reference. Once a customer provides his or her own design, a stencil is created by the artist and applied on the body part where it is sought. Thus the pigments of required colors are applied to the skin first. After this a machine is used to inject the pigment into the skin layers through multiple needles. Once done, the artist applies disinfectants and bandage to cover the tattoo for effective healing. It is important to keep it dry and clean to avoid infection and maintain the quality of tattoo artwork. As a safety measure against infections, it is important to ensure if the artist is using new needles and there is a proper system of sterilizing the equipment between clients.

Tattoo Removal

There are surgical methods of removing tattoo that can be similar to scraping of the layers of skin to banish the marks. They include cutting away the tissue and replacing it by balloon like expanders to reduce the scars. One may need to repeat the surgeries for total removal. Camouflaging tattoos with skin colored pigments is another way of covering up the tattoo or create another form replacing it. Earlier the pigment was also removed by using saline solution. Removal by laser can cost a lot of time and money. It is difficult to remove the larger tattoos and may need repeated treatment. Some creams, available in the market, are claimed to fade away the tattoos gradually. However, the effectiveness and safety of such products are not established.

Temporary Tattoos

For people who are apprehensive about having a pattern that would last a lifetime and do not want to get into the complexities of removal, may use temporary tattoos. They normally last for 4-5 days or more. It is possible to rub off a temporary tattoo anytime using baby oil or alcohol. It is important to look at the declaration regarding the ingredients used and ensure the quality of colors used. Harmful chemicals, such as solvents could be used that are not healthy to apply on skin.

Henna or mehndi is an herbal product. It is best to use it in its natural powder form, without any chemical additives. Traditionally henna powder is formed into a paste by adding water and sometimes coffee or tea extract. The paste is applied through special cones to form thin lines in the design. Once the paste dries off, a solution of sugar and lime juice is applied. Henna is kept for two to four hours after that and then scraped off. Some oil can be applied and washing should be delayed for a few hours if possible. Henna has orange to dark brown color depending upon skin type and lasts two to three weeks. Pure henna is not always used. There are henna tattoos available that have additives providing variety in colors and easier application than the traditional ways. In conclusion, a well designed tattoo can be a beautiful piece of art work.