Safe, Durable and Removable Tattoos Using Microcapsule Tattoo Ink

Brown University researcher Edith Mathiowitz has developed a tattoo ink which, while durable, can be easily removed with a single laser treatment.

Microcapsule Tattoo Ink - Safer Alternative

According the the Brown University website, this ink is a safer alternative to traditional inks, as it does not contain heavy metals or other toxins like traditional tattoo ink. Instead, inks which are easily easily eliminated by the body are encapsulated in tiny beads and placed in a solution. This ink is introduced to the skin using a traditional tattoo needle.

To remove the ink, a person undergoes a simple procedure where the beads are broken by a laser. The broken capsules and released ink are then absorbed by the body without leaving any scars.

Other Uses for Microcapsules

Microcapsules, which are made from special polymers, can also be used for medicinal purposes. The Brown website states that they can be used to carry vaccines or human growth factors to help rebuild bone, nerves or cartilage. Another application is controlled-release drugs.

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Brown University: What’s in Your Microcapsule? Tattoo Ink - and More