If hygiene rules are not followed, body tattooing can expose you to various diseases such as herpes, hepatitis viruses, and even HIV/AIDS.
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Becks’ tattoo (Photo: TinThểThao) |
Cosmetic tattooing is no longer the trendy beauty service it once was a few years ago, but the number of people considering “long-term coloring” for their eyes and lips remains significant. High-end options include cosmetic departments in international hospitals, while more average services rely on beauty professionals at salons. Some individuals even trust their faces to “street” tattoo artists who offer very low prices, yet the price they pay can sometimes be very high.
Some believe that cosmetic tattooing enhances beauty and saves time on makeup, while others argue that it detracts from a person’s natural appearance. From a medical standpoint, doctors are concerned about many individuals who have, are, and will be unknowingly infected with various dangerous diseases. The culprits are often viruses easily found in the blood or bodily fluids of infected individuals. These viruses can be transmitted through tattooing instruments such as needles, syringes, and pigments. Below are some diseases that can be transmitted:
Herpes: The culprit is the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). Once infected, symptoms may appear about 1-2 weeks later in the form of clusters of blisters on the upper or lower lip, accompanied by pain or mild itching. The condition usually lasts about one week and resolves on its own unless further infected by other bacteria. In some individuals, HSV can infiltrate deeper into the cervical spinal cord, where it can reside long-term, occasionally resurfacing under favorable conditions such as a weakened immune system, other illnesses, or alcohol consumption. HSV can be transmitted to others through kissing.
Oral herpes is commonly seen in individuals who have undergone lip tattooing. Treatments only address the external symptoms and do not eliminate the deeply embedded HSV.
Hepatitis B: Many individuals are infected with hepatitis B without realizing it. Most show no symptoms and only discover their condition through blood tests. Some may develop hepatitis, which can progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer, both potentially fatal diseases. Currently, there is no cure for this disease in Vietnam, only vaccines that provide temporary immunity for a few years. Any form of tattooing can transmit the disease. Once infected, individuals should avoid certain medications or foods that may further damage the liver.
AIDS: Individuals infected with HIV may remain “stable” for several years, during which time it is difficult to detect, making them a silent source of transmission to others through sexual contact or to fetuses.
In addition to viral infections, tattooing can also cause local infections leading to redness and swelling in the area, allergic reactions to tattoo ink, or skin peeling post-tattoo.
If you still wish to enhance your beauty with cosmetic tattooing, it is best to go to reputable establishments. It is advisable to think carefully and seek opinions from multiple sources, including men. When getting a tattoo, consider bringing your own supplies such as needles for anesthetic, tattoo needles, or even ink to minimize future risks.
