Tattoos are an age-old form of self-expression through art. Most people get tattoos that have symbolic meanings for them or at least look pleasing to their eyes. While the aesthetic value of tattoos is what matters to most people who get them, some wonder whether tattoos offer some kind of health benefit.
A Study on the Effects of Tattoos on the Immune System
A scientific study on a particular tattoo parlor in Alabama was conducted to find out if there is a significant difference between the body’s immune system functions before and after getting a tattoo. The research was conducted on 29 people who got tattoos.
The results show that those who got tattoos for the first time had higher levels of cortisol, or stress hormones, which meant their immune systems got weaker. However, those who have had multiple tattoos done before showed a different result; their stress levels were much lower, and they had an instant surge on Immunoglobulin A (IgA). The IgA is the body’s first line of defense against infection. Several related studies have been conducted too and the results are all at par.
How Tattoos Strengthen the Immune System
Getting a tattoo puts the body under stress but it turns out this isn’t such a bad thing. Regular stress, such as getting inked multiple times, builds a stronger immune system. This effect is similar to how exercise and other strenuous activities initially cause soreness and discomfort yet, once those fade away, increases overall strength. Repeated tattooing increases the threshold required to trigger an immunological response which means it heightens the ability of the body to fight off diseases and infections.
Tattoos do boost your immune system but only if they are done repeatedly. Now, you have more reasons to get that tattoo design you’ve been saving in your phone for so long finally inked on your skin. Book a tattoo appointment now and start building your immune system.