TDM INK issue 3 April 2017

The research showed that people with more tattoos generally had immune systems that were
more easily able to retain their
levels of immunoglobulin A than
those with fewer tattoos.
However, you shouldn't run out to
the nearest tattoo parlor just yet.
It is possible that individuals with
healthy immune systems heal
faster, making them more likely to
get multiple tattoos. If that's the
case, then this study has the
cause and effect backwards.
Also, according Dr. Christopher
Lynn, University of Alabama
associate professor of anthropology, receiving a single tattoo can lower your resistance to
illness -- at least temporarily.
"They don't just hurt while you get the tattoo, but they can exhaust you," Lynn said. "It's easier
to get sick. You can catch a cold because your defenses are lowered from the stress of getting
a tattoo."
The body's response to tattooing is
similar to that experienced from
exercising in the gym when you're out of
shape, Lynn explains.
Think of it this way: When you are just
starting a new work out regimen, your
muscles become sore very easily.
But, if you continue working out
regularly, the soreness becomes lesser
and lesser after subsequent workouts.
In a similar way, getting multiple tattoos could your body build a stronger immune system -- it
just takes time.
So the next time anyone gives you a hard time about that sleeve tattoo you're considering, you
know what to tell 'em -- no pain, no gain.