A new study finds tattoo artists are more than just tattoo artists when it comes to skin health
At
least once a week someone comes into my office at the recommendation of
their hair stylist. A suspicious lesion, a rash or hair loss—all
sources of legit referrals. Tattoo artists may do the same, according to
a recent study from New York University's department of dermatology.
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Researchers conducted a survey
of 90 tattoo artists based in New York to learn about their role in
providing skin care advice. The study showed that "educating tattoo
artists about adverse tattoo reactions and other skin conditions may
improve their ability to counsel clients and increase their likelihood
of practicing optimal skin health behaviors." It also pointed out the
fact that tattoo artists, like doctors, tend to have an intimate,
trusting relationship with their clients. Considering some ink? Here's
what you can learn from this new study:
Shop around for an artist with training (and their own tattoos)
Over half of those surveyed, (56.1%) had received training about skin
conditions related to tattoos. It seems logical that tattooists with
prior training reported higher rates of optimal skin care behaviors and
higher confidence with tattoo-related skin conditions. Choosing wisely
helps to ensure a positive overall experience. A very interesting fact?
More than 60 percent of respondents reported experiencing an adverse
reaction to one of their own tattoos. A personal experience will
generally garner a more realistic and empathetic treatment approach.
History and aftercare are key
Make sure to be clear about any dermatologic history you may have.
Sixty-two percent of the respondents asked their clients about
preexisting skin problems—great! But that means some did not. Psoriasis,
history of keloids, and eczema, for example, are conditions that can
definitely be aggravated with trauma to the skin. And yes, a needle
puncturing your skin is considered trauma. Please make sure to ask for
wound care instructions when things wrap up—73 percent of tattooists
made sure this happened!
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Ask about signs of infection
According to the study, tattoo artists in New York City must complete a
3-hour infection control course and pass a written examination in order
to get an official Tattoo Artist License. The authors note that there is
no required training on skin conditions not caused by infection.
Regulations in other states may not be the same, so it is important to
know that redness, tenderness, fever, chills, streaking, or a pus-like
discharge mean a trip to the M.D., ASAP.
Be cautious if you have lots of moles
Those with multiple moles are at an increased risk for the deadly skin
cancer melanoma. Forty-eight percent of those surveyed looked out for
atypical moles during the tattooing process. While this is really the
job of a dermatologist, any additional surveillance should be
encouraged. I suggest taking a picture of the skin prior, making it
easier to gauge a new or changing lesion. It is important to immediately
see a health care provider if there is any questionable area.
Scope out options for removal
You may love that art now, but believe me, things change. Just for
giggles ask your artists how difficult it would be to erase signs of
their work (before it is permanent). Certain ink colors and complex
designs may be harder to remove. Although laser tattoo removal has
gotten better, it still is not perfect, so figuring out an exit strategy
(although pessimistic) may not be a bad idea.
The study concludes that "Because of the role tattoo artists play as
advisors on health-related issues, they may be powerful public health
allies for dermatologists." They serve as a front line of professionals
that deal with clients who may not see a dermatologist regularly. The
more people are educated on skin health, the better the outcome will be
for all.
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