Tattooing in Young Adults: Patterns, Complications and Reasons for Dermatological Consultation at a Tertiary Care Center
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: A tattoo is a dermatological procedure in which pigmented dyes are injected into the dermis using needles or a tattooing device, leading to permanent or semi-permanent skin pigmentation. This process may trigger an immune response and can potentially cause dermatological issues such as allergic reactions, granuloma formation, or Koebnerization in susceptible individuals. It is an ancient practice observed across various cultures for religious devotion, cosmetic enhancement, identification of prisoners, criminals and slaves and even for therapeutic pain relief. Objective: This study aimed to examine the diverse tattoo patterns among individuals and analyse the underlying reasons for their visits to the dermatology department in tertiary care center. Methods and Results: A total of 63 patients with tattoos, who sought tattoo removal at the dermatology department, were enrolled between February 2023 and January 2024. The majority sought removal due to rejection in medical examinations for Army or SSB recruitment. Informed consent was obtained from each participant and clinical photographs were captured using a high-resolution 16-megapixel camera. These images were analysed to study tattoo patterns, associated conditions and complications due to pigment innoculation. The majority of patients were aged 21-30 years (n=41), predominantly Hindu males, mostly students and urban residents. The most common tattoo designs included names of loved ones (n=20), followed by religious symbols like “Om” or “Trishul” (n=16) and “Ma” (n=14). Most patients sought removal due to job requirements (n=24) or changes in relationship status (n=9) while remaining others (n=16) due to poor quality or desire for a new tattoo. The remaining cases (n=14) experienced complications related to tattoos and sought treatment. Conclusion: Given the limited sample size, further research with a larger population covering a wider age range is recommended.
Source: Journal of Dermatology Research
Authors: Nikita Singh, Pankaj K Tiwary, Anupama Singh, Gopal Prasad, Rajnish Kumar
Language: English
Subfield: Cultural Studies
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4410186329