Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Tattoos could be a risk factor for melanoma

A study published by Lund University suggests that tattoos could be a risk factor for melanoma. Researchers found a 29% increased relative risk among tattooed individuals compared to non-tattooed individuals. The link may be due to the immune system's response to tattoo ink, which can lead to exposure to potential carcinogens.

SourceLund University·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2025

Electronic tattoo gauges mental strain

Researchers developed a wireless forehead e-tattoo that decodes brainwaves to measure mental strain, providing an objective alternative to subjective surveys. The device can detect increased cognitive demand and predict mental fatigue, with potential applications in workplaces and homes.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2025

Research Alert: UC San Diego medical students support tattoo removal for adults impacted by the justice system

Medical students at UC San Diego provide free laser tattoo removal services to justice-impacted adults, gaining hands-on experience in dermatology. The initiative, which has been well-received, enhances medical education, social justice engagement, and patient care in underserved communities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalLasers in Surgery and Medicine·DateMar 27, 2025

Tattoos may be linked to an increased risk of cancer

Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark found that tattooed individuals are more frequently diagnosed with skin and lymphoma cancers compared to those without tattoos. The study suggests that chronic inflammation in the lymph nodes triggered by tattoo ink may lead to abnormal cell growth and an increased risk of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2025

Printed e-tattoo ink-credible at reading brainwaves

Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin and UCLA have created an e-tattoo that can measure brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG). The new method uses a camera to map the individual head's shape digitally, allowing for more precise sensor placement. This innovation could transform brain-computer interfaces, making th...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalCell Biomaterials·DateDec 3, 2024

An improved ink for colon tattoos

Researchers have created a new type of colon tattoo ink that is more biocompatible and less prone to diffusion than existing inks. The ink uses metal-derived nanoparticles and polymers to adhere to the submucosal surface in the colon, allowing for better identification and removal of complex polyps and tumors.

Light-emitting tattoo engineered for the first time

Researchers have developed a temporary tattoo using organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) that can emit green light. The technology has the potential to be combined with other electronics for various applications, including fashion, sports, and healthcare, such as detecting dehydration or signaling expiry dates.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·DateFeb 26, 2021

Using tattoo ink to find cancer

Using tattoo ink and food dyes, researchers have developed new imaging contrast agents that can illuminate cancers, allowing for better differentiation between cancer cells and normal adjacent cells. This breakthrough aims to improve early cancer detection and localization.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateSep 2, 2020

The art of sensing within the skin

Scientists developed permanent dermal sensors that can be applied as artistic tattoos to detect changes in blood pH and metabolite levels. The sensors, based on colorimetric chemical reactions, were tested on pig skin patches, showing accurate detection of biomarkers.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 18, 2019

Need a job? Get a tattoo

A new study from the University of Miami Business School and the University of Western Australia found that discriminating against workers with tattoos puts hiring managers at a disadvantage. The study surveyed over 2,000 subjects and found that visible tattoos are not linked to individual employment, wages, or earnings discrimination.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalHuman Relations·DateAug 9, 2018

Patients don't mind if doctors sport tattoos or piercings

A study of nearly 1000 emergency care patients found that visible body art has no discernible impact on perceived professionalism or competence. Patients rated doctors with tattoos and piercings highly for qualities such as caring attitude, approachability, and trustworthiness.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·DateJul 2, 2018

Tattoo electrodes from an ink-jet printer

Researchers at TU Graz have developed a novel method for creating printed tattoo electrodes that can transmit electrical impulses from human to machine. The electrodes are thin, flexible, and conformable, allowing for accurate measurements over extended periods without restricting patient mobility or comfort.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMar 27, 2018

Tanners who use sprays and lotions less prone to get tattoos and piercings than sunbathers

A Baylor University study reveals that frequent tanners are more likely to engage in risky appearance-related behaviors, including tattoos and piercings, compared to infrequent tanners. The research suggests that excessive tanning may be a sign of body image concerns, making it essential to address social and appearance pressures.

SourceBaylor University·JournalFamily and Consumer Sciences Research Journal·DateDec 4, 2017

Flexible wearable electronic skin patch offers new way to monitor alcohol levels

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a flexible wearable sensor that can accurately measure blood alcohol levels from sweat, providing real-time monitoring for doctors and police officers. The device, consisting of a temporary tattoo and portable electronic circuit board, can be worn on the skin and transmit data wirelessly to a ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 2, 2016

Smithsonian botanist discovers new ground-flowering plant in Panama

The discovery of Calathea galdamesiana highlights the importance of botanical research and conservation efforts in Panama. The new species is distinguished by its unique leaf shape and ground-dwelling inflorescences, and was discovered during a biological diversity inventory organized by the Panamanian Ministry of the Environment.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas·DateJan 21, 2016

Tattoos reduce chances of getting a job, new research says

Employers view visible tattoos as a stigma, perceiving them as making employees look dirty or unsavory. However, certain innocuous symbols like flowers or butterflies are seen as acceptable. The stigma surrounding tattoos is expected to decrease over time as younger generations increasingly get tattoos.

SourceSAGE·DateSep 3, 2013