By Dr. Chinta SidharthanSep 19 2022Reviewed by Danielle Ellis, B.Sc. In a recent study published in iScience, researchers developed a rapid, sterile, and painless method of tattooing using single-use microneedle tattoo patches, which can be used for cosmetic and veterinary applications and storing medical information.Background Tattoos have long held cultural and religious significance and have been widely used for decorative and artistic purposes.
About the study The present study used a carbon dioxide laser cutting machine to make conical cavities in a polydimethylsiloxane sheet to form the tattoo pattern. The microneedles were created using a mixture of tattoo ink and a water-soluble, biocompatible polymer called poly that dissolves after application, leaving behind the patch backing. The tattoos were tested on rat and porcine skin.
Tattoos that were sensitive to environmental changes were also explored. Thermochromic ink was used to design a tattoo that would change color in response to varying temperatures. A more complex tattoo carrying a quick response code was also designed and tested using various applications that read QR codes.
The tattoo with the thermochromic ink changed color when heated beyond 40°C. Such tattoos can monitor temperatures during illness or treatments that result in elevated body temperatures. Similar environment-sensitive tattoo patches can be developed for other stimuli of interest, such as pH, enzyme, and glucose, to monitor health conditions.