In his statement aimed at raising awareness among individuals considering tattoos and informing the public about potential health risks, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Metin shared the following: “Tattooing is a form of body modification with historical roots dating back thousands of years and is widely preferred across all age groups today. The word tattoo, derived from the Tahitian word ‘tattau’ meaning ‘to mark,’ is performed by injecting pigments into the middle layer of the skin. These tattoos, with a historical and cultural background, are created for purposes such as identity, protection, belief, or preserving memories. They are classified as decorative-cosmetic, medical, traumatic, traditional, and ritual tattoos. With increasing popularity, health issues in the society have also risen. Piercing the skin with needles during the procedure can bring various health risks. Contrary to common belief, tattoos are not entirely harmless. Allergic reactions, skin infections, chronic skin problems, and various blood-borne diseases may develop during or after the procedure.”

According to epidemiological studies, 0.5% to 6% of individuals who get tattoos develop infections, and some studies indicate that 67% of people experience various complications. Piercing the skin barrier during tattooing opens a pathway for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to enter the body and cause infections. Infection symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, and general discomfort, with additional symptoms appearing as the infection spreads. Non-infectious complications include allergic reactions, which are the most common. The main causes of infections include insufficient sterilization or contaminated equipment and needles, ink contamination, inadequate hygiene practices, and lack of aftercare. Non-infectious complications include allergic reactions, disruption of the skin microbiome, inflammatory conditions, cancer risks, toxic profiles, cosmetic issues, problems related to magnetic resonance imaging, psychosocial effects and regret, as well as long-term health issues during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Metin: “Make an Informed Decision Before Getting a Tattoo.”

Emphasizing the importance of making informed health decisions for individuals planning to get a tattoo, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Metin continued: “Having comprehensive information on this subject is vital. The hygiene conditions of the studio, ink content, sterilization of instruments, care protocols, and potential health risks should be thoroughly investigated. Unfortunately, many individuals undergo the procedure without prior information on these aspects. To reduce the risk of ink allergies, it is important to be informed about ink composition, health and safety guidelines, and to choose a reliable and experienced artist. Tattoo artists usually base their recommendations on personal experience. Before any tattoo procedure, a dermatological examination is recommended to thoroughly assess potential skin diseases and comorbidities. It is especially important for individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or those with suppressed immune systems to consult their doctors before getting a tattoo. Generally, tattoo inks, drugs, or implants are not subject to strict safety regulations. Concerns about harmful components in tattoo inks have increased, and it is recommended to establish minimum safety standards for inks and conduct regular testing. In conclusion, getting a tattoo is a personal choice. However, it should not be overlooked that this decision carries potential health risks. As public health organizations and educational institutions, our primary goal is to ensure that individuals are aware of these risks and make informed choices. It is strongly advised that anyone who has or is considering getting a tattoo conducts the necessary research and consults healthcare professionals before making a decision.”