If American scientists have their way, in the future everyone will be able to get small, simple tattoos without pain. Using special plasters with miniature needles that introduce the ink into the skin. So far, however, the approach has only been tested on rats and pigskin.
A team led by Mark Prausnitz of the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta tattooed the animals with hearts and stars, as well as numbers, blood group numbers and short words. It was also possible to use inks that are only visible under UV light. This allowed certain information to be worn discreetly on the skin, the researchers wrote in the journal “iScience.”
In humans, the patches can be used to cheaply tattoo small symbols that do not require the skill of a tattoo artist. According to the researchers, the technology could also be used to mark medical information on the skin, for example about blood groups or diseases such as diabetes.
It is also possible to mark animals
It is also possible to apply a QR code, which is read and leads to more information. In addition, according to the researchers, it is conceivable to cover parts of the skin that are perceived as ugly. The patches can also be used to mark animals.
Microneedle tattoos are painless
“We’ve miniaturized the needle so it’s painless, yet effectively delivers tattoo ink into the skin,” Prausnitz said. The developed microneedles consist of tattoo ink surrounded by a soluble sheath. According to the scientists’ research, the tattoos will last at least a year, but are probably even permanent – but can also be provided with temporary tattoo ink.
Can also be used for vaccinations
Until now, mini needles have been used in, for example, anti-wrinkle treatments, but not yet in the tattoo industry, according to the scientists. Prausnitz has also been researching for years how such needles can be used for administering drugs or vaccinations.
The researchers set up a company to further develop the technology. “The goal is not to replace all tattoos, which are often beauty works by tattooists,” Prausnitz said. “Our goal is to create new opportunities for patients, pets and people who want a painless tattoo that is easy to apply.”
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
