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New needle technology could make tattoos pain-free and quick

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New needle technology could make tattoos pain-free and quick Representational image

ReprTattoos are like a story on the body

Some people choose not to have tattoos because of their discomfort throughout the procedure. However, the technological innovation that a team of scientists is now developing could alter this by using tiny needles.

A team has developed a low-cost, painless, and bloodless skin patch at the Georgia Institute of Technology under the direction of chemical engineer Mark Prausnitz. The study was published in the journal iScience on September 14, 2022.

How do the “microneedles” work?

The “microneedles” in various configurations can be assembled like a pixel. Each design is coated with ink and placed against the skin to imprint the design. It seems possible to do this without experiencing any discomfort or bleeding. The procedure can be self-administered.

Those terrified of the discomfort of conventional tattoo needles may use the patch. The group started its investigation, though, with medical patients in mind. Medical tattoos can be used to repair nipples after breast surgery, cover up scars from previous radiation treatments for cancer, and guide future therapies. They can also serve as health monitors in place of bracelets. They might inform medical professionals of critical illnesses, including diabetes, epilepsy, or allergies. However, the most intriguing applications of this technology may be those more geared towards the future. It has recently begun exploring the use of tattoos to assist animal organisations in identifying spayed and neutered animals.

Will it affect contemporary tattoo work?

The patches don’t yet provide enough resolution to compete with contemporary tattoo work. Theoretically, anyone could create their tattoo, print out a patch, and adhere to it if that resolution could be increased in the future, and an easy method for printing out these patches could be created. Given the talent and time required in the craft, the patches won’t significantly impact the tattoo industry because the designs are tiny and essential.

This article was written by Ananya Jena.

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