Apart from the fashion for body art, it has a therapeutic use in matching the colour of skin grafts (see GRAFT). It is performed by implanting particles of colour pigment into the corium, the deeper layer of the skin, with a needle (see SKIN). The main medical hazard is infection, particularly HEPATITIS. The tattooed person may also become allergic to pigment, particularly cinnabar. Removal, which should be done by an aesthetic or plastic surgeon, always leaves a scar, and may require a skin graft. Other methods of removal are by CRYOSURGERY, DERMABRASION and laser surgery. These, too, are best carried out under skilled medical supervision.

In order to reduce the health hazards, tattooists – along with acupuncturists, cosmetic skin-piercers and hair electrolysers – are required by UK legislation to register their premises with health and local authorities before starting business. The practitioners have to satisfy the authorities that adequate precautions have been taken to prevent the transmission of infections.