The consensus is if you get a tattoo, it won’t be because of a passing fancy. This is unless you went on a bender and woke up in Vegas with an artistic expression only you understands. A recent survey shows that close to 66% of young adults (18-25 years) are looking into getting tattoos. Moreover, these groups of people seek to influence their inner circle into getting one.
Despite this, you still need some serious soul searching before you face the needle. Tattoos are not only about the pain inflicted when getting one. This is a commitment you are getting into, and as with any commitment ensure you are ready for it.
Forms of Self-Expression
Tattoos and body piercings are close cousins. There has been a growth in the number of people sporting body piercings and tattoos recently, and with a wide range of gauges, there is something for everyone. Body expression was once associated with the rebels, but has moved on to mothers and professionals. What was once considered taboo is now a norm.
The body jewelry one can wear depends on the piercing gauges used. It is therefore important when choosing a body piercing expert you consider the gauges they are familiar with and how much experience they have had with the same.
While these two are a form of self-expression, they also pose health risks to individuals. The best tattoos and piercings are ways to alter the body’s natural form. This can spell out trouble even when done safely. The body’s largest organ and ultimate protective barrier, the skin, is subjected to continuous punctures.
Some of the health risks associated with getting piercings and tattoo include
Allergic Reactions
The ink used in tattoo needles is channeled straight into the skin. Certain dyes, especially red dye, bring on an itchy rash years after the procedure is done. Body piercings that include jewelry from metals such as nickel or brass have been associated with allergic reactions.
Skin Disorders
Conditions such as Keloids, Granulomas, skin inflammation, and scarring are all caused by the tattoo ink.
Unsterilized Needles
Tattoos and piercings are risky since they can spread blood-borne diseases like tetanus, hepatitis, and HIV and Aids. These life-threatening conditions are spread through unsterilized needles that are contaminated by someone’s blood.
Oral Complications from tongue piercings
Tongue piercings can lead to sores since the tongue is one of the most sensitive parts of the body. This can lead to severe pain and discomfort.
If you decide to get a tattoo or a piercing, follow these tips to avoid choosing an establishment that will put your health at risk:
- Always make sure the professional handling the needle uses an autoclave. This is a heat sterilization machine recommended by the Food and Drug Association.
- Every non-sterilized equipment should be disinfected using a bleach solution or a commercial disinfectant.
- Avoid professionals using a piercing gun. These often cause trauma around the pieced region leading to bruising.
- Make sure the professional upholds sanitary measures around his hands. Make sure they have sanitary gloves on when they commence the procedure.
Migraine Relief
The stories around tattoos and piercings are not always gloomy. There is this group of Detroit women who found piercings as a way to relieve headaches. Candice Dean had been suffering from severe headaches for 22 years with regular visits to the ER and countless doctor visits. This, however changed when she added some jewelry to her ear.
The science behind this is a 3000-year-old practice referred to as daith piercing. This procedure falls in line with acupuncture by triggering pressure points, alleviating stress, and inducing relief.
Specialists still need some more time with this procedure, but according to Dr. Mark Silverman, a neurologist with Providence hospital, 50% of patients have found this helpful. Since there is little medication offered for various types of migraines, he has encouraged patients to try this since there are no known side effects. He does, however, recommend an acupuncturist who is familiar with a range of gauges for a smooth procedure.