Tattoos have become a major trend again during the past decade, but few may be aware of some of the health risks.
Most arguments surrounding tattoos within youth groups tend to center around whether or not they are permissible by God and what the social implications or statements behind them might be. However, some health professionals raise more significant concerns regarding the health risks of the ink being used.
The National Center for Toxicological Research in Arkansas investigated tattoo inks to determine their composition, how they react in the body, and how safe they really are, and found the ink's "carrier" compounds, like alcohol, can "promote" harmful effects of any contaminants that might be present in the mixture.
A number of people report itching, soreness and other irritations from tattoos, even long after the initial procedure.
Some health professionals are recommending those seeking tattoos not only choose their shop wisely, but also avoid new and trendy colors and stick to darker more tried and true colors.
Discussion Starters What's your opinion on tattoos? Do you think teenagers are too young to make decisions about such permanent markings? Why or why not? How might the decisions people make about tattoos relate to the way they process other choices and risks?
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