Abstract

VALLE, L E. Tattoos and piercing. Rev. argent. dermatol. [online]. 2006, vol.87, n.1, pp.16-26. ISSN 1851-300X.

In spite of being in the XXI century, several archaic codes of communication language have been restablished. Young people form their identity by peer interaction, and tattoos and piercing have their own codes interpreted by the group by whom are exhibited. Nowadays tattoos and piercing have taken their place among adolescents where they have been reinstalled as "fashion" and widely accepted. Also, there are used in marginal populations such as drug users and prison inmates. Having a tattoo and/or piercing implies certain risks among which we are the transition of infectious diseases that could be localized at the site of the tattoo/piercing, or generalized as viral infections such HIV, and hepatitis A, B, or C. Other possible complications are the appearance of allergic, hypersensitivity, lichenoid, and granulomatous reactions, or the triggering of a first episode of psoriasis, lupus, etc. In the recommendations to inform the population we should include that the body regions more unsafe for these practices are: the head (including mouth and nose), neck, and genitalia. Is also very important to have tetanus vaccines updated, considering the hygiene conditions of the tattoo parlor and the quality of the material that is going to be used which should be disposable if possible. The local care in the first days post-practice are: keeping the region clean and dry, short showers, dry without rubbing, and avoid the sun for three or four months. Also is advisable in the case of any reaction seek for professional advice.

Keywords : Tattoos; Removal; Piercing.

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