A roadside tattooist with his client, at work

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: Tattoos have been around for centuries, but they have become increasingly popular in recent years. This is especially true in Bengaluru, where the tattoo trend is booming.

There are now hundreds of tattoo studios in the city, catering to a wide range of tastes, designs and meanings. However, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable studio.

In the bustling city of Bengaluru, where the tattoo trend is growing, a hidden danger lurks in the shadows. Amidst the vibrant markets and bustling streets, unlicensed tattoo artists operate illegally, wielding unsterilised needles and rudimentary equipment.

These roadside tattooists, often referred to as "sidewalk tattooers," pose a significant threat to public health. Kavya Vijayakumar a make-up artiste and tattoo artiste who is the owner of Vesta Makeover takes an example from the hospital industry and said, “In a hospital, if they don't change needles, they have the fear of losing their license, but there is no such regulation for tattoos. This is being misused by several tattoo artists.”

Operating in unhygienic conditions, these tattooists expose their clients to a myriad of health risks. The use of contaminated needles can transmit bloodborne diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Cross-contamination is also a common occurrence, as the same needles are often reused on multiple clients without proper sterilisation.

Additionally, the use of substandard inks and pigments can lead to allergic reactions and skin infections. A dermatologist, Dr V Sana, explained that using a contaminated needle is similar to repeatedly pricking oneself with a rusty pin.

She asked, "Would you knowingly poke yourself with a pin that has been covered in dirt? Why would you do the same thing for a tattoo?"

Dr Sana also cautioned that using an unclean tattoo needle can cause the skin cells around the area to die and decompose, which can be extremely dangerous. To avoid these issues, Kavya urges, “Before thinking about a tattoo design and other details, it is important to make a thorough consultation with the tattoo studio and check if they are doing a proper safe job.”

Recently, when a person got a tattoo of a religious symbol on a pilgrimage suffered from dead skin around the tattoo causing severe infection and pain. This was becasue the needle used was the same needle that was used with the previous person. This was later diagnosed as an STD.

Encouraging the public to be cautious and informed, she advised that if a needle is used on their skin in a public setting, they should ensure that it is at least minimally hygienic and sterilised.

She explained, "Many people choose unsafe tattoo establishments because they are more affordable, but tattoos are permanent and deeply significant. They are an investment."