tatto

Tattoo, sometimes written tatto, refers to a permanent form of body modification achieved by inserting pigment into the dermis using needles attached to a tattoo machine or manual tools. The procedure deposits pigment beneath the outer skin layer, producing a design that typically remains for life, though colors can fade over time and may require touch-ups. Healing usually takes one to three weeks, during which good hygiene and protection from sun and irritation are advised.

Tattoos have appeared in many cultures throughout history. Early examples include Ötzi the Iceman, dating to around 3300 BCE, and markings from Polynesian, Japanese, and other indigenous traditions often tied to social status, rites of passage, or spiritual beliefs. In the modern era, tattooing expanded with the invention of the electric tattoo machine in the late 19th century, and it has since become a widespread form of personal expression and art.

Health and safety considerations include the risk of infection or allergic reactions if tools or pigments are contaminated, and the need for sterile environments and regulatory compliance. Some pigments can cause MRI artifacts or skin reactions in sensitive individuals. Removal is typically achieved with laser treatments, which can require multiple sessions. Aftercare, including cleaning, moisturizing, and limiting sun exposure, helps improve outcomes.