The Facts About Ultraviolet Tattoos
A UV tattoo is known to many as a black-light tattoo. This type of art is produced by using a distinctive ink that appears only under black light. Tattoos of this sort are in fact invisible in every other kind of light. This type of tattoo has gained great popularity over the past ten years among those who tend to frequent parties where black lights are commonly used.
Application of UV Tattoos
It should be noted that the process of applying a UV tattoo is a bit trickier than that of a conventional tattoo, and a different set of skills is required. Because the ink used in a UV tattoo is invisible in normal light and is not capable of easy blending, it is critical that the artist focus carefully while working. Black light must be used the entire time in order to clearly see the tattoo as it is being created. Otherwise, however, the task of application is the same as a typical tattoo. A UV tattoo often requires additional time as well, because the ink used is not as thick, and it is tougher to accurately apply.
The Uniqueness of UV Tattoos
A UV tattoo will be invisible under normal lighting conditions, but it will become apparent when a black light is used. When under black light, the UV ink will come to life in an array of colors. UV tattoos are typically applied to commonly visible body parts including arms, legs, and even faces. It should be noted, though, that some who have received UV tattoos report that they have yellowed or faded following prolonged sun exposure.
The Availability of UV Ink Tattoos
Because of concerns about customer safety and uncertainties about the ink, there are those tattoo artists who steer clear of this type of artwork. Because the FDA does not regulate tattoo inks in a general sense, there are artists who are known to develop their own inks, and this is also the case for UV options. Though health worries reduced the popularity of UV tattoos for some time, they are gaining again now that new ink formulas have been developed, and more has been learned about the process.
Safety of UV Tattooing
Though consumers may have seen ads indicating that UV ink is FDA-approved, the fact is that it has not been approved for use on humans. It is actually only approved for fishing and agricultural applications. There has been no conclusive study done to examine the impact of UV ink on humans.
As such, many remain concerned about UV tattoos, and there have been a greater number of reported adverse reactions with this type of ink than with conventional options. The chemicals in these formulations have been known to produce blistering, rashes, infections, and some even believe that they can lead to cancer.
Much of the health concerns about UV ink stem from the fact that it contains phosphorous, something which can produce skin burning and rashes, blisters, and other issues. Even inks that no longer contain phosphorous are still the subject of adverse event reports that have given some consumers pause when it comes to UV tattoos.
Removal of UV Tattoos
As is the case with conventional tattoos, it is indeed possible to have a UV tattoo removed. It is possible to utilize lasers to degrade this type of ink and eliminate the UV tattoo altogether. Contact Vanish Laser Clinic for a consultation today!