Cosmetic and medical applications of tattooing

Abstract

Cosmetic tattoos, also known as permanent Make-Up (PMU), have become mainstream and part of fashion in recent decades. Medical complications including infections and allergy are rare but can occur. Dissatisfaction and regret resulting from a poor aesthetic outcome are reasons to seek medical advice. Removal techniques also have their risks of side effects. Medical alert tattoos are a growing phenomenon. Tattoo devices can also be used for medical indications such as scar corrections and intradermal application of pharmacologic substances. All these procedures should be performed by trained professionals, with sterile materials and in hygienic conditions.