Tattoo Facts

Tattoos: An Ancient Tradition

Contrary to popular belief, tattoos are not a modern fad. They are an ancient practice dating back at least 5,000 years. The oldest known tattooed human skin to date is on the body of Ötzi the Iceman, an ancient mummy discovered in the Alps in 1991, who lived around 3300 BCE.

Tattooing: A Global Phenomenon

Tattooing has been a part of various cultures across the globe. From the Polynesian tribes, who developed the term “tattoo,” to the ancient Egyptians and Celts, people worldwide have used tattoos for cultural rituals, rites of passage, and symbols of status and identity.

Significance of Tattoo Placement

The placement of a tattoo can carry as much significance as the design itself. For example, in traditional Maori tattoo art or ‘Ta Moko’, the location of the tattoo on the body represents different aspects of the individual’s identity, including social status, genealogy, and professional skills.

Tattoo Machines: A Derivative of a Novel Invention

The modern tattoo machine’s concept was surprisingly inspired by an invention by none other than Thomas Edison. In 1876, Edison invented an electric pen designed to make duplicating documents easier. Tattoo artists later adapted this device to insert ink into the skin, thus creating the predecessor of the modern tattoo machine.

Colorful Variety: Tattoo Ink

Tattoo ink comes in a plethora of shades and tones, allowing tattoo artists to create vivid and intricate designs. However, the color that is most resistant to the tattoo removal process is green, due to the specific wavelength of light needed to break down the pigment.

Tattoos and Your Immune System

Here’s a fascinating fact about tattoos and your body. Getting a tattoo can strengthen your immune system. A 2016 study found that getting multiple tattoos could boost your immunological response, making future tattoos less stressful on your body and aiding faster recovery.

UV Tattoos: Invisible Ink

UV tattoos, also known as blacklight tattoos, are a unique form of body art. They are made with ink that is almost invisible in normal light but glows under ultraviolet light. This can make for an exciting reveal in the right lighting conditions!

Tattoo Regulation and Licensing

Professional tattooing is a highly regulated industry. Most regions require tattoo artists to have licenses and adhere to strict health regulations. Additionally, many professional tattooists undertake apprenticeships for several years to master the skill before starting to tattoo clients independently.

Tattoos in the Workplace

Attitudes towards tattoos in the workplace have significantly evolved in recent years. While tattoos were once seen as unprofessional, many employers now accept, and sometimes even encourage, visible tattoos, reflecting changing societal norms and values.

Tattoos and MRI Scans

One commonly perpetuated myth is that you cannot get an MRI scan if you have tattoos. However, while there have been a few cases of tattoos reacting under the MRI due to the iron oxide in some tattoo inks, the majority of modern tattoo inks pose no risk.

Final Word

In conclusion, tattoos are a captivating form of self-expression that intertwines with our culture, history, and personal narratives. These 10 facts offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of tattoos, shedding light on their ancient roots, diverse styles, and the complex artistry they entail. Whether you’re a tattoo enthusiast or just curious, there’s no denying the captivating allure of this enduring art form.