- What is a tattoo? A tattoo is a mark or design on the skin. Permanent tattoos are made by inserting colored ink under the skin with a needle. Some of these inks use pigments used in paint or printing inks and are not approved for injection.
- Types of tattoos: Permanent tattoos: Ink is inserted under the skin.
- Permanent makeup: Similar to a tattoo, used to mimic makeup such as eyeliner or eyebrow definition.
- Henna (mehndi): Natural dye used to color the skin. FDA-approved for use as a hair dye, but not approved for use on the skin.
- Temporary "sticker" tattoos: A design on a piece of paper that is applied to the skin with water. It can be removed by rubbing it off.
- Why do people want tattoos or permanent makeup?To restore the appearance of the face or body after surgery.
- Difficulty applying makeup due to a medical condition.
- Loss of eyebrows.
- For aesthetic, cultural, or social reasons.
